Oftentimes, it's the little things we learn that help make our travels more enjoyable.
Money Tips:

- You will get a better rate of exchange for cash than for travelers cheques. We found that the exchange places charged a commission for travelers cheques, but not for changing cash.

- When you bring cash make sure that none of the bills have ANY rips in them. We have had bills refused with small rips.

- Credit cards are used most places in Istanbul, but lots of cash or access to it is really necessary. The old thing of tipping with American dollars is not too well received - which is strange due to the strength of the dollar. Good advice was to change money every few days rather than a lot at once due to the unruly fluctuation of the value of the dollar.

- If you are planning to be in Turkey for more than a few days, convert your money a little at a time. Inflation is high in Turkey (50% in 1999) and you will be surprised by the changes a week in exchange rates can bring.

- When you arrive at the airport, the best place to exchange money is at the PTT (post office) inside baggage claim. And always count your money no matter who is making change. Turks do it and so should you!

- If you purchase your visa at your point of entry have cash. They do not take traveler's checks, credit cards or Turkish lira.