PLAN YOUR TRIP - Istanbul - page 63

Taxes & Refunds
Turkey has a value-added tax (VAT) known as the katma değer vergisi (KDV). This means that a
tax of between 1% and 60% is included in the price of most goods and services. Rates vary wildly
- eg, alcohol is taxed at a mind-boggling 60%, whereas clothing is taxed at only 4%.
If you buy an item costing more than TL118 from a shop that participates in the national 'Global
Refund: Tax Free Shopping' scheme, you are entitled to a refund of the KDV at your point of de-
parture. At the airports, remember to have customs inspect your purchase(s) and stamp your tax-
free form before you go through immigration; you can then collect your refund in the departure
lounge.
Lonely Planet's Top Choices
Cocoon ( CLICK HERE ) Striking textiles, rugs and handicrafts from Central Asia.
Dear East ( CLICK HERE ) Designer homewares made by local and international artisans.
Haremlique ( CLICK HERE ) Elegant Turkish-made bedlinen, bathlinen and throws.
Gönül Paksoy ( CLICK HERE ) Ottoman-influenced ensembles featuring gorgeous fabrics.
Lokum ( CLICK HERE ) Exquisitely packaged and totally delicious Turkish Delight.
Best for Homewares
Tulu ( CLICK HERE )
İroni ( CLICK HERE )
Paşabahçe ( CLICK HERE )
Best for Bathwares
Jennifer's Hamam ( CLICK HERE )
Abdulla Natural Products ( CLICK HERE )
Derviş ( CLICK HERE )
Hammam ( CLICK HERE )