@bilgeb

One of the best cities in Europe. Though location makes a big difference in Istanbul. Besikatas, Nişantaşı, and Karakoy are parts that I enjoyed. They are safe and have nice vibe and energy. Big city, but not too hectic. I've met a lot of friendly Turkish people there and had good conversations. The food is good and relatively cheap. Outside of the good areas you will find lots of scams, people will try you everyday. Though its not violent, you can always just walk away.

Pros - cheap: lunch for 1 person for less than USD10, grande cappuccino in Starbucks for less than USD2 - good cafes and restaurants, for them go to Mustafa Enver Bey street in Alsancak, to Cengiz Topel street in Bostanli, or to Hilltown, Mavibahce, and Istinye Park malls - a big city with skyscrapers in the financial district, good public transportation including metro, trams, buses, and ferries, and big malls, but slower, cheaper, more relaxed, and less crowded than Istanbul - great climate, h

Bodrum is an overpriced (central) but quite beautiful (surrounding villages/quays) place, mainly made up of the retirement residences of educated rather educated, secular population. There are amazing quays in driving distance that wouldn't be any different than beautiful coasts of Bali or Thailand.