Hi everyone:

My name is Ron and I'm coming to Istanbul for nine days, arriving the 20th of Febraury. I feel like a bit of an interloper since I'm coming only for a vacation, but I really wanted to get a feel for the city before I arrived, from people who live there. I actually joined EiT months ago, and I've been doing a lot of reading so that when I start asking questions they won't be incredibly stupid

I think I've got my hotel sussed. Was thinking about the Sebnem in Sultanhamet (I'm on a bit of a budget, and I really don't like the International chains; they're all the same.) But I'd be open to suggestions.

Any ideas on the weather? I want to pack as light as possible. It seems like it's been unseasonably warm lately. Is the end of feb typically like now, or colder?

Finally, do you guys have periodic get togethers? If I could crash one it would be really cool to get more insights into the city. It's funny, when I travel I have as much fun talking to people about the hassles of opening a bank account or finding a good market as I do visiting museums or historic buildings.

Happily awaiting your replies, ciao

Ron