CURRENCY: 
The monetary unit as Yeni Turkish Lira (YTL.).
The coins are in
5, 10, 25, 50 YKR
And the banknotes are in  5, 10, 20, 50, 100 YTL

The biggest banknote 100 YTL is around 52 in EUR0 .

 EXCHANGE: 
The exchange rates for foreign currencies change daily.  You can exchange currency and traveler's cheques at the hotel cashiers, or better to cahnge at CHANGE OFFICES on the streets.  There a are a couple of them in TAKSIM SQUARE . Banks are open 09.00-12.00am./1.30-5.00 pm. The exchange slips for the conversions should be kept since yıu may be required to show these when converting your Turkish money back in to foreign currency.  Since there is a very high inflation in Turkey we advise you to change your money daily. 

  CREDIT CARDS :
Amerikan Express, Dinners Club, Masterchard and Visa Credit Cards are accepted by the welknown Restaurants and the Stores. Check before purchase. 

 SHOPPING:
Shops and stores are open Monday throu Saturday from 9.30 am till 7.00 pm. Cash, Traveler's cheques and the major Credit Cards are wellcomed by stores. There are variety of goods you can purchase such as Oriental Carpets, Leather weares, Costumes, Gold,and Silver Jewellery. Brass and Copper Works,  Silk etc.articles you purchase may accompany you or be shiipped and delivered to your door with full coverage by the large stores.  Please consult with the conference information desk and your tour guides. Turkey is in a system of help developing countries to improve their economic conditions thru foreign trade. Turkey, is about to be acepted by  European Union.  We do advise you to get certificate with your purchases of goods and articles manufactured in Turkey such as Carpets and Jewelery.            

 TAP WATER : It has been chlorinate and many have a strong taste.  Bottled spring water is also available.

 RELIGION: 
Islam 99 %.   In addition to the Mosques, Greek Ortodox, Armenian and Roman Catholic Churches and Synagogues are available to the worshippers in major cities.