Preparing for Almaty: My Istanbul Layover Experience
A year ago, I traveled across Central Asia! It was the most challenging yet rewarding trip I’ve accomplished. I loved that part of the world so much that I want to go back. This time, I want to stay in one place and live there for a month.
I've decided to live in Almaty, Kazakhstan, renting an apartment in the heart of Central Asia’s largest metropolis.
Why Almaty?
Almaty is located in the heart of Central Asia and offers numerous opportunities for travelers. Whether you're studying, working remotely, or exploring domestically, Almaty is the perfect base. It's affordable to rent an apartment for a month, and personally, I am fascinated by Kazakhstan’s unique and diverse culture. Additionally, I want to practice my Russian-speaking skills (Russian is predominately spoken in Kazakhstan as a second-language).
How am I getting there?
I’ll be departing on a ten-hour journey with Turkish Airlines, including a long layover in Istanbul Airport (IST), one of the world’s largest international connecting airports, is modern, clean, and offers a variety of amenities, including international cuisines, restaurants, shopping, and world-class lounges.
Istanbul Airport’s International Terminal featuring lounges, restaurants and world shopping retail brands.
Things to Do at Istanbul Airport:
Connecting through Istanbul has become routine for my travels. Here are some recommendations to keep busy during a long layover:
Check Out the Cafes:
If you need some time to relax, there are plenty of coffee stops. From Costa to Starbucks, Istanbul Airport features Western coffee chains throughout the airport. If you’re feeling adventurous or it's your first time in Istanbul, grab some Turkish coffee or chai tea.
Old Bazaar featuring traditional Turkish delights and pastries for those craving a sweets. One of many Turkish style locations in Istanbul Airport.
Go Shopping:
I’m not much of a shopper, but for those who enjoy it, Istanbul Airport has large retail chains in the international departures section, including Tissot, Louis Vuitton, Nike, and Lacoste.
Louis Vuitton fashion retail store in the International Departures section for any traveller who enjoys shopping (note: airport products are typically overpriced so think twice before purchasing retail products at the airport).
Grab Food:
Istanbul Airport is exceptional for its variety of food options. Travelers can try international cuisines like Turkish Doner and Iskender Kebab or stick to comfort food like McDonald’s and Subway.
Food courts are rampant all across Istanbul Airport. For travellers from North America, fast food brands like Shake Shack, McDonalds and Burger King are featured in the airport.
Catch Up on Work:
As a travel writer and globetrotter, I use layovers to write content and build my brand. Istanbul Airport offers open network Wi-Fi, accessible in all areas (note: the connection can be slow during peak hours). Whether it's a half-hour or a few hours, using this time to be productive is always beneficial.
Get Some Rest:
Long flights can leave you exhausted. If you have enough time during your layover, relax and get some rest. The airport offers rest areas and lounges where you can chill until your next flight. If your connecting flight is delayed, use this time to rest and avoid feeling rushed.
Head to the IGA Lounge:
The IGA Lounge stands out among the many lounges at Istanbul Airport. It offers comfortable chairs, sleeping cubes, a cafeteria with Turkish and international food options, first-class bathrooms, a billiard table, and a playground for children. A pass, along with your passport and boarding pass, is required to enter (note: the lounge can be crowded during peak hours, so consider quiet areas as an alternative). I recommend Priority Pass, which provides access to 1300+ lounges worldwide.
Note: A reminder for all travellers, that lounges get busy during peak hours. With Istanbul Airport being one of the world’s busiest, max capacity is often reached and a queue is created at the door. I recommend sensory friendly areas and/or quieter spaces in the event there is max capacity and if you only have a short time between flights.
Interior of the IGA Lounge. Featuring a cafeteria, open bar and bathrooms with showers, the IGA Lounge is one of the world’s premier airport lounges.
Visit Istanbul:
If you have a layover of 24 hours or longer, consider visiting Istanbul. For first-time visitors, this is a great opportunity to explore a new city. Depending on your nationality, visa requirements may vary. Taxis are available at arrivals after clearing immigration, and the newly built Istanbul Airport Metro train can efficiently take you to the city center and back.
Conclusion
I can’t stand airports—they are crowded, anxiety-inducing, and overstimulating. However, Istanbul Airport is my favorite for layovers due to its amenities, features, and world-class lounge. Whether you’re a travel writer, on a business trip, or traveling for leisure, consider the tips above to make your experience more enjoyable. I’m excited to head to Almaty and live there. Stay tuned for more stories from Almaty!
