Helpful Tips
To help you enjoy your stay in Istanbul comfortably and make the most of your visit during the SLC event, please consider the following useful information and local tips.
Currency
The local currency in Türkiye is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and most shops across the city. ATMs are also easily available. However, carrying a small amount of local currency may be useful for taxis, small cafés, or local markets.
Language
The official language is Turkish. However, English is commonly spoken in hotels, restaurants, shopping areas, and tourist locations. Basic greetings such as “Merhaba” (Hello) or “Teşekkür ederim” (Thank you) are always appreciated by locals.
Transportation
Istanbul is a large and vibrant city connecting Europe and Asia. Traffic can occasionally be heavy, particularly during peak hours. We recommend allowing extra travel time when moving between locations. The event transportation will be organized according to the official program.
Public Transportation
Useful info about your stay outside of the event day to make your transportation in Istanbul easier, you may use the Uber application during your stay. Through the app, you can easily request a taxi, track your route, and make secure payments.
In Istanbul, Uber operates with licensed yellow taxis. We kindly recommend downloading the Uber application to your phone prior to your arrival. It provides a very convenient way to travel around the city, especially during busy hours.
You may download the application via the App Store or Google Play
From Istanbul Airport to Swissôtel The Bosphorus by Metro
Guests arriving at Istanbul Airport (IST) may use the M11 metro line, which operates between Istanbul Airport and Gayrettepe.
From Gayrettepe, guests can transfer to the M2 metro line towards the city center.
Turkish Airlines also notes that the M11 line connects Istanbul Airport with Gayrettepe and provides transfers to other metro lines.
Suggested Route: Istanbul Airport (IST)
→ M11 Metro to Gayrettepe
→ Transfer to M2 Metro Line
→ Continue towards Taksim / city center
→ Take a short taxi ride to Swissôtel The Bosphorus, Istanbul
Important Note:
There is no direct metro stop inside the hotel. The final part of the journey from the nearest central metro area to Swissôtel may require a short taxi ride or walking, depending on the guest’s luggage and preference.
Istanbulkart & Payment Options
For public transportation, guests may use an Istanbulkart, which is a rechargeable transportation card valid on metro, tram, bus, ferry, metrobus and other public transport services. Istanbulkart can be purchased and topped up at airport metro stations, main metro/tram stations, ferry piers and selected kiosks.
Alternatively, guests may also use contactless credit or debit cards for public transportation payments on many transport vehicles in Istanbul. However, for guests planning to use public transport multiple times, purchasing an Istanbulkart may still be more practical.
Useful Tips for Guests
Public transportation signs are available in both Turkish and English at major stations.
Metro is usually a good option to avoid traffic during busy hours.
For late-night arrivals or guests with heavy luggage, a private transfer or taxi may be more comfortable.
Guests are advised to check the latest route and timetable information before travelling.
For airport arrivals, please allow extra time for walking inside the airport and transferring between metro lines.
Electricity
Turkey uses Type C and Type F plugs with 230V voltage. Participants traveling from countries with different plug types may wish to bring a power adapter.
Time Zone
Türkiye operates on GMT+3 year-round.
Cultural Etiquette
Istanbul is a cosmopolitan and welcoming city where tradition and modern life blend together. While the city is very international, a few cultural considerations can help ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience:
- When visiting mosques or historical religious sites, modest clothing is recommended (shoulders and knees covered).
- Photography is generally allowed in most public places, but it is polite to ask permission before photographing individuals.
- Turkish hospitality is well known, and friendliness and politeness are highly appreciated.
Local Tips
- Istanbul is famous for its Bosphorus views, historical landmarks, and vibrant food culture.
- Trying local specialties such as Turkish breakfast, kebabs, meze, and baklava is highly recommended.
- The city offers a unique atmosphere where historic architecture, modern districts, and scenic waterfronts coexist.
Emergency & Event Support
Henkel Internal Team
Şevval Can +90 549 749 00 54
İrem Zorlu +90 530 247 63 85
Ege Bıçakcı Yıldız +971 50 183 06 95
Agency of the Event
Emre Aybars +90 532 490 10 38
Baki Kızıldaş +90 545 933 42 75
Ecem Bölükbaşı +90 537 247 77 74
Elif Ünal +90 530 390 07 86
Personal Belongings;
Security Brief
Istanbul is generally a safe and welcoming city for visitors. However, as in all major cities and popular tourist destinations, guests are kindly advised to keep an eye on their personal belongings, especially in crowded areas such as airports, public transportation, markets, shopping streets and touristic sites.
Please keep your bag, wallet, passport, phone and other valuables secure and avoid leaving them unattended. We also recommend carrying only the essentials during city tours and keeping important documents in a safe place whenever possible.
Please do not forget to bring your prescription medications with you.
Nearby Hospitals & Pharmacies
American Hospital
Located in the Nişantaşı district, approximately 10–15 minutes by car from the hotel.
Telephone
+90 212 311 20 00
444 3 777
Acıbadem Taksim Hospital
Located in Taksim, pproximately 10–15 minutes by car from the hotel.
Telephone
+90 212 273 44 44
444 55 44
Memorial Şişli Hospital
Located in the Şişli district, approximately
15–25 minutes by car from the hotel.
Telephone
+90 212 314 66 66
444 7 888