Istanbul is a megacity, as well as the cultural, economic, and financial centre of Turkey. It is located on the Bosphorus Strait and encompasses the natural harbour known as the Golden Horn, in the northwest of the country. It extends both on the European (Thrace) and on the Asian (Anatolia) sides of the Bosphorus, and is thereby the only metropolis in the world that is situated on two continents, like a natural bridge. There are nearly 15 million people living in Istanbul and it is the most crowded city of Turkey. It is Turkey's economic and cultural powerhouse - a status underlined by its role as a European City of Culture in 2010 and the award of UNESCO World Heritage listing to many of its most important landmarks, which range from stunning Ottoman mosques and Byzantine churches and catacombs to the columns of Hellenistic temples and the remains of massive medieval city walls.

Istanbul had been the capital of 3 efficient empires in the history: The Roman Empire, The Byzantian Empire and the Ottoman Empire. As a result, you can see remains of these 3 different empires and of course their cultures! Having uncountable ancient, historical and unique structures, Istanbul is like a treasure for both tourists and researchers. Istanbul has always a lot to offer, with Roman aqueducts, Byzantine churches and Ottoman mosques and palaces. Some of the main attractions that must be seen are; Hagia Sophia Museum, Topkapı Palace, Dolmabahçe Palace, Blue Mosque, Maiden’s Tower, Galata Tower, the Bosphorus and also Istanbul University, which was built in 1453, the year when Istanbul (with the old name Constantinople) was conquered by the Ottoman Emperor Fatih Sultan Mehmet and the Byzantian Empire came to an end. The educational program of the congress wil be held at Istanbul University , which is also very close to most of these historical structures.

But there's more to Istanbul than Byzantine and Ottoman heritage. A fast-growing economy contributed to a flourishing arts and music scene, with a plethora of new bars, clubs, private art galleries, restaurants and designer fashion outlets.

During your visit, you’ll witness a nonstop life continuing in this vigorous city. As there lives a huge young population, nighlife and entertainment sector is fascinating. Most of them prefer hanging around Istiklal Street, which is one of the most lively and crowded streets of Istanbul near the famous Taksim Square. There are many bars, cafes, restaurants, and shops located on the street as well as historical structures.

Turkish people are famous for being friendly and helpful, so you can ask questions to anyone and they will be glad to help you if they can. (However, not most of them speak English) Also don’t forget to make a bargain while buying something from a bazaar (not a shop), sellers at a bazaar are usually ready to bargain.

Turkish cuisine will attract you with its rich variety of delicious food including most famous Turkish Kebabs, a typical Turkish breakfast (we believe it’s the most important meal - usually served with Turkish tea), homemade specialities like mantı, börek, dolma, karnıyarık and of course unforgettable desserts such as baklava, şekerpare, künefe, sütlaç or the Turkish delight, as we call it “lokum”.

Istanbul keeps a secret in each street and each structure. Some call it “the city of mysteries” , some others call it “the city of inspiration”. In either way, we can assure you that you’ll leave amazed and wanting to come again to discover more! Istanbul grows more as you start discovering!