Removals to Turkey | A Guide to Life in Izmir

Located on the Aegean coast, Izmir is Turkey’s third largest city and known as one of the most westernised communities in the country. If you plan to live and work in Izmir, get in touch with Hamiltons for advice on how to organise your removals to Turkey. We are experts in international removal services and can arrange the packing, transportation and unpacking of your household items, as well as helping you with international paperwork.

While offering a more laid-back lifestyle than the larger centres of Istanbul and Ankara, Izmir is still a busy city, with a population of about 2.8 million, while the larger metropolitan area has over 4 million residents. Housing and other living costs tend to be lower than in the other two cities, which is an attraction for expats.

Known for centuries as Smyrna to those in the west, Izmir is a historic port with many interesting sights. One of its most iconic structures is the marble Clock Tower dating from 1901, in Konak Square, near the harbour, which has become known as the symbol of the city. The ancient “velvet castle”, Kadifekale, is another famous landmark, while the ancient sites of Ephesus and Pergamon are within easy reach.

Izmir has a good range of cafes lining its famous seaside promenade, the Kordon, as well as restaurants serving varied dishes, with many menus based around fresh fish. Shoppers can pick up fresh produce at many local markets and bazaars or browse the stores in large shopping malls such as Forum Bornova.

Popular Districts of Izmir

Some of the most upmarket and exclusive accommodation in Izmir is located in the central Alsancak quarter. This area also includes numerous hotels, offices and business premises, as well as entertainment venues and places to eat, so it tends to attract people who want a busy environment.

Most people in this area tend to live in apartments. Housing costs here are likely to be higher than elsewhere in Izmir, but lower than you might pay for accommodation of similar quality in some other cities. Bostanli, Mavişehir and Konak are also popular areas to live.

The Karsikaya district, about 4 miles to the north of central Izmir, is a quieter place to live, and popular both with commuters and also for retired people. Housing in this district does vary, but there are some especially attractive neighbourhoods in the waterfront area. Further afield, another place with a community of expats is the coastal resort of Çeşme, about 50 miles west of Izmir. A small town with around 21,000 residents, it is also a tourist centre, with many hotels and restaurants and a reputation for watersports.

One active expat group is the International Women’s Association of Izmir, which holds various social events including a monthly book club, dinners, coffee mornings and bazaars. Internations also has a group in Izmir, and the Turkish American Association organises various activities which other nationalities can also join in.

Education

If you are looking for a school offering tuition in English, the MEF International School in Gaziemir, Izmir, teaches students from reception through to year 13. It offers Cambridge international programmes and offers a number of different activities and after-school clubs for youngsters.

Another school teaching most lessons in English for those of high school age is the American Collegiate Institute, which has more than 700 pupils and is on a campus in the Göztepe area of the city. The SEV elementary school for younger students is on the same site.

There are several universities in Izmir, including Yasar University, which has a strong international focus and mainly offers courses taught in English. There are also some courses in English at other universities in the city.

Job Options

A lot of the economic activity within Izmir is centred on the port, with many expats working either for the port itself or for associated companies, including senior and technical positions. Other areas where English speakers are in demand include the trade and service sectors.

With the number of private English language schools in the area having grown over recent years, there is also a demand for qualified teachers to work at these institutions. Anyone from another country working in Turkey needs to ensure they have the right work permit, and can get help finding a suitable position from relevant websites and agencies.

Arranging Removals to Turkey with Hamiltons

If you are planning a move to Izmir and need someone to arrange your removals to Turkey, get in touch with Hamiltons for an online removals quote. We have an expert international removals department which can arrange your whole move, offering the specific services you require.

Removals to Turkey - Click here for a detailed home move quote.