Though the U.S. State Department last updated its Turkey travel warning on September 23, 2016, the U.S. Consulate General Istanbul on October 22 posted another, more specific security message for U.S. citizens, primarily aimed at those residing in Istanbul or traveling immediately to the city: In the statement, the consulate warned that extremist groups continue "aggressive efforts" to attack Americans and other foreigners living in Istanbul. The brief noted that the attacks may be pre-planned, and include, but are not limited to, "armed attack, attempted kidnapping, bombing, or other violent acts." Cohesive with the State Department's warning, the security message urges Americans to reconsider travel to areas in Istanbul known to be frequented by Westerners, and exercise caution in large public gatherings or popular areas.
After a string of attacks in the city, a triple suicide bombing at the airport, a July 2016 coup attempt, and violence in the capital of Ankara, travel to Turkey has dropped by more than 40 percent compared to 2015, according to Allianz Global Assistance. An extension of Turkey's State of Emergency went into effect on October 19, and many cruise lines—Norwegian, Regent, Oceania—have canceled calls in Turkey through the end of the year and into 2017. As a result of the instability in the region, the U.S. government recommends that "U.S. citizens should still carefully consider the need to travel to Turkey at this time."
Traveling to Istanbul sometime soon? Know that the state of emergency means increased security and police presence, but also take caution to avoid large crowds, whether at political gatherings and rallies or tourist destinations. Avoid travel to southeastern Turkey—more specifically, near the Turkish/Syrian border—and stay at hotels that have active security measures in place. Before you go, enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and help U.S. embassies locate you in the event of an emergency.