Then there’s belly dancing, one of the musts on your list of things to see in Istanbul (or do…). Just as the word ‘actress’ was once considered a euphemism for prostitute in polite Western society, so were belly dancers considered women of ill repute by respectable Turks.

Since the 1970s, however, belly dancing has become widely acceptable and even appreciated. The comely Sertap Erener triumphed in the 2003 Eurovision song contest, not least thanks to her belly-flinging skills.

Kazablanka, Kuytu Sokak 4, off Tarlabashi Bulvari, Beyoglu; Tel: +90 212 293 6212
Shows: Daily, 9pm-midnight 

Galata Tower, Galata Square, Beyoglu
Tel: +90 (0) 212 293 8180; www.galatatower.net. 
Show: Daily, 8pm.
A touristic extravagance of belly dancing and other joys, at the top of Galata Tower, for a mere 65 YTL a head.