General Information

About the Conference

On behalf of the Micronutrient Forum and the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Turkey, it is our pleasure to invite you to attend the first international meeting of the Micronutrient Forum on 16–18 April 2007 in Istanbul. The Micronutrient Forum was established in 2006 with the aim of serving as a stimulus for policy-relevant science and as the internationally recognized catalyst for moving the global community towards consensus around evidence-based policies and programs that reduce micronutrient deficiencies around the globe.

It is our hope that this meeting will foster the exchange of new ideas, encourage innovations, present the latest research findings, increase awareness of the latest survey data, and promote action programs that translate these findings into practical application for the control of micronutrient deficiencies around the world.

Who Will Attend?

Participants from international agencies, food and chemical industries, national ministries, educational institutions and non-governmental organizations from the fields of health, nutrition, biochemistry, agriculture, education, communication, and development are expected to attend this 3-day meeting. Approximately 600 participants from an average of 60 countries are expected to attend.

This interdisciplinary meeting will bring together policy-makers, program managers, and scientists from many countries to share their experiences in the control of micronutrient deficiencies.

How to Get Involved

• Submit an abstract (deadline 15 August 2006)
• Apply for an exhibit (deadline 1 February 2007)
• Organize an satellite meeting (deadline 1 March 2007)
• Be a sponsor (Contact us at mnforum@ilsi.org or 202-659-9024)
• Form an interest group discussion (can be arranged informally on-site)

Languages

English is the official language of the meeting, and all meeting materials will be printed in English. Simultaneous interpretation into Turkish will be available for the plenary meeting sessions.

About Istanbul

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Istanbul is Turkey's largest city and its cultural and economic center. It is located on the Bosphorus strait, and encompasses the natural harbor known as the Golden Horn (Turkish: Haliç) in the northwest of the country. Istanbul extends on both the European (Thrace) and the Asian (Anatolia) side of the Bosphorus, making it the only metropolis in the world that stands on two continents. It is sometimes called the "City on Seven Hills" because the historic peninsula that is its oldest part was built on seven hills. This is also represented by seven mosques at the top of each hill.

Istanbul was formerly known as Constantinople, its name for 5 centuries. With a history of over 2500 years, it is one of the oldest existing cities in the world. It has been the seat of three empires: the Roman, the Byzantine, and the Ottoman. Three of the major religions of the world, Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, have co-existed harmoniously in Istanbul for over 500 years.

As a result of the war of independence, Turkey became a secular republic in 1923, and Mustafa Kemal Pasa (Atatürk) became its first president. Pasa was reponsible for many important reforms that were to open the road to modernization and improve relations with western Europe. The population of Turkey is currently 67 million, of which 12 million reside in Istanbul.

Today, this large country—more than twice the size of California—with its spectacular coastline, majestic mountains, cosmopolitan cities, and quaint villages, is one of the world’s most desirable destinations, a captivating blend of east and west, antiquity and contemporary, the exotic and the familiar.

For more information about Turkey and Istanbul, click here for Helpful Links.

Sources: www.tourismturkey.org, www.lonelyplanet.com, http://english.istanbul.gov.tr

Useful Information

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• The temperature in Istanbul in April is mild, averaging a high of 17ºC (62ºF) and a low of 8ºC (42ºF), with a medium chance of rain. Check the weather (www.weather.com) before you depart for Istanbul. It is a good idea to pack layered clothing, an umbrella, and a jacket.
• Turkish is the main language spoken in Turkey.
• The local time in Turkey is equal to GMT plus 2 hours.
• Most electricity is 220 volts AC/50 Hz. Wall plugs are the round, two-prong type. Be sure to bring your own adapters, plugs, and transformers.
• Turkish currency is the New Turkish Lira (YTL), which has been used since January 2005. The YTL replaces the old Turkish Lira (TL). Essentially, six zeros were dropped from the old TL to make the YTL. Count your change carefully each time, and insist on New Turkish Liras only, because the old TL are out of circulation and are no longer considered legal for payment. If someone tries to hand you old TL (it will have lots of zeros on it), don't accept it! Also keep in mind that many vendors will not accept large bills or notes for small payments, so always keep some smaller bills available. The New Turkish Lira has an exchange rate of approximately 1 USD = 1.6 YTL, and 1 Euro = 2.0 YTL. For today’s exchange rates, please see the Oanda.com currency conversion website.
• ATM machines are easy to find in Istanbul and in other major cities in Turkey, and are generally the easiest way to obtain local currency. In most cases, your home bank will charge a service fee (check with your bank before leaving home). A currency exchange office (“döviz”) will exchange cash (Euros and US dollars are the most widely accepted). Traveler’s checks may or may not be accepted at banks or currency exchange offices, so have a backup plan ready if you bring traveler’s checks.
• Major credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard are accepted at hotels and major retail centers.
• Bank hours are 09:00–12:00 and 13:30–17:00 hours, Monday–Friday.
• Tipping at a rate of 5% to 15% is common at various establishments, including hotels, restaurants, Turkish baths, and barbers. It is not customary to tip a taxi driver, but if you would like to leave a tip, simply round up your fare to the nearest lira.
• Visitors entering a mosque should conform to local customs and remove their shoes and show respect as they would in any other house of worship. Foreign visitors should avoid entering the mosque during prayer time; five times a day, the “müezzin” calls people to prayer. Men and women should be appropriately dressed (no shorts or sleeveless tops, and for women, a headscarf may be worn, and no short skirts.). While the majority of the Turkish population is Muslim, Turkey is a secular state that enjoys complete freedom of worship.
• The Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar in Istanbul are both closed on Sundays.
• On 23 April, Turkey celebrates National Sovereignty and Children’s Day, a national holiday. Expect businesses, banks and some retail stores to be closed.

Sources: www.turkeytravelplanner.com, www.weather.com

Immunizations and Health

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The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend the following vaccines for travelers to the Middle East, including Turkey and Istanbul. Discuss your travel plans and personal health with a health-care provider to determine which vaccines you will need.

• Hepatitis A or immune globulin (IG): Transmission of hepatitis A virus can occur through direct person-to-person contact; through exposure to contaminated water, ice, or shellfish harvested in contaminated water; or from fruits, vegetables, or other foods that are eaten uncooked and were contaminated during harvesting or subsequent handling.
• Hepatitis B: If you might be exposed to blood (for example, health-care workers), have sexual contact with the local population, stay in the region longer than 6 months, or have medical treatment, you should be vaccinated for hepatitis B. This vaccine is now recommended for all infants and for children ages 11–12 years who did not receive the series as infants.
• Rabies: If you might have extensive unprotected outdoor exposure in rural areas, such as might occur during camping, hiking, or bicycling, or engaging in certain occupational activities, you should have a pre-exposure vaccination for rabies.
• Malaria: Istanbul is not a risk area for malaria, but there are areas of Turkey that are. If you are planning to one of these areas, see your health care provider for a prescription for chloroquine—the recommended antimalarial drug for Turkey. Visit the CDC website for details concerning which areas of Turkey are at risk for malaria.
• Typhoid vaccine: If you are visiting underdeveloped areas.
• As-needed booster doses of tetanus-diphtheria, measles, and a one-time dose of polio vaccine for adults.

The CDC recommends that you consult your physician at least 4–6 weeks prior to your trip to allow time for the shots to take effect. For more information, please visit the CDC website’s section on travelers’ health.

In general, travelers should wash their hands frequently with soap and water, avoid drinking tap water, eat only thoroughly cooked food or fruits and vegetables they have peeled themselves, and protect themselves against insect bites.

Source: www.cdc.gov

Dining Out

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Anyone who visits Turkey is sure to notice how unique and satisfying the cuisine is. Turkish cuisine mirrors a long and complex history of Turkish migration from central Asia to Europe. The region is known for an abundance and diversity of foods due to its rich flora and fauna. The legacy of the “imperial kitchen” is also inescapable. These unique characteristics and history have led to a rich and varied number of dishes in the Turkish cuisine.

Turks are purists in their culinary taste: each dish is meant to highlight the flavor of the main ingredient rather than smother it under sauces and spices. Herbs and spices are used sparingly and singularly: either mint or dill goes with zucchini, parsley goes with eggplant, and garlic has its place in cold vegetable dishes.

Istanbul has become a melting pot of both local and international cuisines in recent years. In an effort to broaden culinary horizons, more Western-style cafés, bars, and continental restaurants are popping up all the time. However, traditional Turkish fare is still by far the most popular, and there are countless restaurants in Istanbul where you can sample local delights. Shish kebab (skewer-grilled lamb) is a Turkish invention and you'll find kebapçis everywhere. Lamb and fish (which can be expensive) dishes are restaurant staples. A less-expensive, yet tasty, meal is Turkish pizza. Vegetarians can also find reasonable fare by making an entire meal from magnificent meze (hors d’oeuvres). Desserts are sweet (often honey-soaked) and tend to incorporate fruit, nuts, and pastry in tempting combinations. The national drink is çay (tea).

Bring your appetite with you to Turkey—you won’t be disappointed!

Sources: http://www.turkishembassy.org, www.lonelyplanet.com

Helpful Links

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Below are some links where you may find helpful information for your trip to Istanbul and Turkey. These websites are posted for informational purposes only, and do not represent the official views or positions of the Micronutrient Forum or its sponsors or organizers.

Istanbul Convention and Visitors Bureau
Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality
Istanbul Governor’s Office
Republic of Turkey – Ministry of Culture and Tourism
Republic of Turkey – Ministry of Health
Republic of Turkey – Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs
Republic of Turkey – Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Embassy of the Republic of Turkey – Washington, D.C
Turkish Culture and Tourism
Istanbul Atatürk International Airport
Turkish Airlines
Lonely Planet—Turkey
Turkey Travel Planner
My Merhaba – Guide for Living in Turkey
Turkish Daily News
Turkish Press
Zaman Daily News

Getting There

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Airline Discounts

United has proudly been appointed as the official airline for the Micronutrient Forum and is offering discounts of 10-15% off applicable fares. To obtain details and conditions on United MeetingsPlus discounts and participating airlines*, contact your local United reservation center or a travel professional of your choice and use the Meeting ID 578AZ.

Book your travel today! To make reservations in the US or Canada, you can also call the MeetingsPlus reservation service at 1-800-521-4041. Outside the US, contact a local United center or travel agent. When making your travel plans, please ensure that you use the Meeting ID 578AZ. You will be helping to support the Forum organization and we thank you for your cooperation.

* Participating airlines for this event are United and United Code Share Flights on Lufthansa, United Express, Ted, US Airways and Air Canada. A code share flight is one that is ticketed on United (United is listed on the ticket) but the actual flight is operated by the other airline.

And United Code Share Flights operated by these airlines:

Atatürk International Airport

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Atatürk International Airport (IST) in Istanbul is Turkey's largest and busiest airport. It services flights connecting to hundreds of cities around the world.

Taxi

Atatürk International Airport is 14 miles (23km) west of the city center. A taxi from the airport is generally the quickest option. A taxi ride takes anywhere from 20–60 minutes, depending on traffic and the time of day, and costs about US$30 (one-way).

Buses/Shuttles/Train

Alternatively, you can take the Havaş Shuttle Service which takes you from the airport to Taksim Square, a short walk to the hotel.  The cost for one-way transfer is 14 YTL.

Airport Transfers

Tour Select has been chosen as the preferred local agent for airport to hotel transportation. The cost of one-way airport to hotel transfer by Tour Select is USD $15.00. To make your airport transfer reservation, complete the “Airport Transfer Request” section on the Secondary Hotel and Airport Transfer Request Form. Tour Select will respond to your request via email or fax. Transfers will not be confirmed until payment is received.

Visas

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Visa requirements and visa fees for visitors to Turkey can be found at the Republic of Turkey Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. Note: while travelers from some (and only some) countries can obtain their Turkey entry visa at the Turkish border gates/airport, we strongly recommend that each traveler obtain their visa prior to departure to avoid any unnecessary problems or delays en route to Turkey.

Be sure to investigate all of your visa requirements as early as possible. Participants are cautioned that visa applications can take up to several months and are strongly encouraged to begin this process as soon as possible.

Tourist visas
Travelers who need a visa to enter Turkey are advised to apply for a tourist visa at the nearest Turkish consulate or office.  The Turkey Ministry of Foreign Affairs website has a list of Turkish consulates and embassies around the world.  If you are required to have a visa to enter Turkey and do not have access to a Turkish consulate or embassy in your country, you must communicate with the Turkish consulate or embassy in the nearest country to you to apply for your visa.  Please begin this process early and follow the above guidelines.

It is unlikely that the secretariat or the Local Organizing Committee will be able to help with your visa application other than to provide a letter of invitation (see below) that can accompany it.

Transit visas
Visas may be required to enter other countries you plan to visit or transit along your personal travel route—even if only stopping for a flight layover.  Visa applications are now subject to a greater degree of scrutiny than in the past, so it is important that travelers apply well in advance of their travel departure date.  Travelers should also investigate whether they will need a Machine Readable Passport (MRP) to enter or transit through the countries on their personal travel route.

Letter of Invitation

The secretariat can prepare a personalized invitation letter to accompany your visa application if this would be helpful.  To request the letter, please write to mnforum@ilsi.org. 

Getting Around

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Istanbul has a public transport network made up of buses (public and private), trams, metro and ferries. Taxis and dolmus are relatively inexpensive if you stay on one side of the river. Nevertheless, the best way to explore any city is on foot.

Taxi

The shining yellow cab with the word ‘taxi’ on the roof is metered and can either be taken at a taxi stand or hailed on the street. Between 0600 and midnight be sure the meter reads gunduz (days). Night-time fares are 50 percent higher and bridge tolls are added onto the taxi fare. A small tip is appreciated; generally the taxi fare is rounded up to include the tip.

Dolmus

A dolmus (shared taxi seating 8 passengers) operates on a fixed fare and a fixed route until midnight. These routes are throughout the busiest parts of the city. You can board a dolmus anywhere on its route by signaling it to stop for you. Similarly you can get off at a convenient point anywhere along the route. The destination is posted on a sign placed in the windscreen. Tipping is not expected.

Bus

Municipal buses, and other buses operated by private companies, are the cheapest, but also a relatively slow means of transport. Bus cards or tickets can be purchased from ticket booths and newspaper stands. Private bus fares are purchased when you board the bus. City buses reach every corner of the city. Time tables and other route information can be found at bus stations.

Tram

Istanbul has two main tram lines useful to tourists. The nostalgic 19th-century Istiklal Caddesi tram is more fun, the Eminönü-Zeytinburnu tram is the more useful, and can help you travel between the heart of the tourist district at Sultanahmet Square and the Otogar (bus terminal) and/or Atatürk Airport.

Metro

Several lines of Istanbul's Metro system are in operation and two are particularly useful to visitors: starting in Aksaray Square, one goes northeast through the city walls to Istanbul's mammoth Otogar (intercity bus station). Another line connects Atatürk Airport with Old Istanbul and the Otogar.

Tunel

Tünel is Istanbul's little 19th-century two-station underground train connecting Karaköy (Galata) and the southwestern end of Istiklal Caddesi.

Ferries

Traditional ferryboats (feribot) travel shorter routes up, down and across the Bosphorus connecting such districts as Karaköy, Eminönü and Besiktas on the European shore with Üsküdar, Haydarpasa and Kadiköy on the Asian side. The principal ferry docks are in Eminönü and Karaköy (Galata) at the mouth of the Golden Horn.

Special daily Touristic Bosphorus Ferries run from Eminönü's Dock 2 up the Bosphorus almost to the Black Sea several times daily.

Sleek modern passenger catamaran commuter ferries “sea buses” zoom up and down the Bosphorus and across the Sea of Marmara, with most service being during the morning and evening rush hours. Because of their speed, catamarans run the longer routes in Istanbul's maritime transport system, leaving the shorter routes to the traditional ferryboats. The principal catamaran dock is the Yenikapi Feribot Terminali on the Sea of Marmara shore south of Aksaray Square. A smaller sea bus terminal is at Kabatas on the southern shore of the Bosphorus (European side) just south of Dolmabahçe Palace.

Sightseeing and Tour Packages

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Click here to download a PDF containing more information on Sightseeing and Tour Packages

Secondary Hotel and Airport Transfer Request Form