General
Turkey's currency is the Turkish Lira which is abbreviated on signs and price tags to TL. The weakness of the Turkish Lira in relation to hard currencies like the pound, the euro or the dollar, means you get alot of TL for your money. It also means that you have to get used to dealing with mind-boggling numbers, like 3 million TL for a beer; while a hotel bill may run into the hundreds of millions. Thankfully there are plans to knock off some naughts next year, but until then you'll just have to cope with all those zeros. On the bright side, at least you can feel what it's like to be a multi-millionaire!
Many shops and restaurants in the coastal resorts accept payment in foreign currency, although you'll definitely need TL if you're travelling to other parts of the country.
Changing Money
You generally get a much better rate of exchange in Turkey, so avoid changing too much before you leave. In Turkey cash and travellers cheques can be exchanged for TL at banks, though you'll often get a better rate of exchange at the private change bureaux known as doviz. The doviz are generally open longer hours too.
For an up-to-date exchange rate visit this online Currency Converter.
Cash Machines
With a credit or debit card you can withdraw local currency from cash machines which are found in convenient locations in cities, towns and resorts. There are also cash machines in the arrivals halls at most airports.
Credit Cards
Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants and shops. Many places charge a 3% commission.
VAT Refunds
Tourists can claim back the VAT on any purchases they make from authorised shops in Turkey. Look out for the stickers in shop windows. Or for more information visit Global Refund.