Within the last week, a rash of intense and violent protests have broken out around Turkey.
The protests began in Istanbul over a plan to demolish the last park in the city, but soon escalated into widespread protests around the country directed at the Turkish government.
In Istanbul, protesters have taken over Taksim Square, a major hub in the city, where they have continuously clashed with police in riot gear.
Yet just outside the chaotic square, life in Istanbul continues as normal and the city continues to be a playground for the young and hip. The city's tourism industry isn't particularly worried about the riots, which are largely confined from the areas where violence has broken out. And the U.S. State Department hasn't issued any warnings about travel to Turkey.
Though tourists should be careful, especially near places like Taksim Square and Besiktas where protesters have gathered, the city is still a worthwhile place to visit.
Tourists are still visiting Istanbul despite anti-government protests that have broken out. If you go, be sure to avoid Taksim Square, at the far end of Istiklal Caddesi, where protesters and police have been clashing.
It's gotten very intense in Taksim Square, with two people dead and many injured.
There have been frequent clashes with the police. Nothing captures this more than the iconic photos of the "lady in red"— a woman who was sprayed directly in the face with teargas by a policeman on May 28 in Gezi Park of Taksim Square. She has since become the symbol of the dissidents.
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