I lived there for 2 years and think that it is the safest place I have evr lived and shopped.. I felt safer there than in my own country. If you are into shopping make sure you make it up to ULUS shopping area.. It offers all different kinds of alleys to include but not limited to gold, copper, furniture, carpets, crystal, and so forth. But for reall shopping make sure you try downtown on Ataturk Blvd. When I was there food, transportation, lodging was very cheap... However to really make a difference, threat the folks there like you would want to be treated... It will make a big difference... Oh did I mention that there is also outdoor pazzars where you can get everything from food staples to fruits and most anything you need for the home.. By the way if you do going shopping there and dont have the room to carry it all with you there is plenty of help there that will help you carry it as well as deliver it directly to where you are staying..