
Worried about COVID-19?
You're not the only one. Travel insurance companies are now offering some cover for coronavirus. So you can travel with more peace of mind.
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A gateway to Europe and the Middle East, Turkey is a thriving country with lots to see and do, but it doesn't come without its risks. Taking out travel insurance for your trip to Turkey can minimise your financial responsibility if you need to seek medical assistance or if you have something stolen while you're there.
Find out how to get the right insurance for you below.
Travel advisories are used by insurers to determine where you are and are not covered. Practically no policies will cover you near the Syrian border, many will not cover you in Ankara or Istanbul, but most will cover you in other areas of Turkey. Check whether your policy covers you to visit areas where you should "reconsider your need to travel".
Generally, travel insurance is a must as it provides you with cover for overseas emergency medical costs, including ambulance transport, surgical fees and hospital accommodation. It can also cover you if you have to cancel your trip for an unforeseen reason. What's more, it can offer protection in case your luggage is lost, stolen or damaged during your trip.
Keep in mind that the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) advises travellers to exercise caution while travelling in Turkey as a whole, there are certain provinces where you are advised to reconsider your need to travel, or not travel at all.
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Popular Destinations
You're not the only one. Travel insurance companies are now offering some cover for coronavirus. So you can travel with more peace of mind.
There are three destinations in Turkey that have become particularly popular with travellers. However, they are not without risks that you should be aware of.
This destination is particularly significant to both Australians and Turks, as a site of sombre remembrance and education as well as renowned natural beauty. This is a relatively safe area, a popular part of many tourist routes and is relatively easy to drive to.
Turkey has a large coastline with many seaside resorts. Antalya in particular is one of the most popular seaside resort cities, blending a rich local culture and history with spectacular natural scenery, watersports and plenty of tourist activities and nightlife.
Thrill-seekers often find themselves on Mount Ararat, Turkey's highest peak. This climb finds a place on many keen mountaineers' must-do lists, but not because it's an easy ascent. The climb often requires ropes and guides, to say nothing of the risks of rapidly changing weather conditions, altitude sickness, heat exhaustion, illness in an isolated area, and everything else.
Turkey has a robust network of private hospitals, many of which have agreements with different insurers so you can access them with travel cover. There are plenty of medical facilities and options in Turkey, and both public and private hospitals can be expected to provide effective treatment. Whether you're visiting as a tourist or for business, you need to know how your travel health insurance policy will work. Note the following:
For these reasons, travel health insurance policies that pay up-front for medical treatments are highly recommended for travelling in Turkey.
If you have an emergency of any kind while travelling in Turkey you have two avenues for help; your insurer (assuming you have travel insurance) and the Australian consular services.
To make a claim, you will generally need to:
The Australian embassy and consulates can assist you by:
The location, address and telephone number of the embassy and consulates can be found on the map below. There is also a 24-hour help line you can call at +61 2 6261 3305 for consular and passport assistance for Turkey in general.
Tourists to Turkey who are staying for up to 90 days in a 180-day period can get an e-visa online prior to entering Turkey or one on arrival. Expect a $60 fee, and other requirements depending on your country of origin and visa, which are explained during your e-visa application.
It's widely agreed that the best time to visit Turkey is in the spring. That being said, there is plenty of things to do and see during other seasons, some of which are outlined below:
Season | What's happening in Turkey? |
---|---|
Spring (March to May) | ☁ Long days and moderate weather
|
Summer (June to August) | ☀ Hot days and little rain, inland areas are usually cool in the evenings
|
Autumn (September to November) | ☂ Mostly mild weather, with more rainy days than spring
|
Winter (December to February) | ❄ Colder days and snow in the Anatolia region, pleasant weather in Mediterranean areas
|
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