Travelling to Istanbul: a practical checklist

Flights, visas, how many nights to book, what to pack, and when it is safe to fly home.

How long to stay

Six days and five nights. A minimum of five nights of hotel accommodation is needed in Istanbul. Surgery is the day after you arrive, and your bloods, ECG and breast ultrasound are done at the hospital that morning.

Flying home

Day six, and only after we have seen the wounds. If you are flying to the USA or on another long-haul route, plan to leave on day seven and book the extra night. Long-haul passengers should walk the aisle hourly and wear the compression vest for the whole flight.

Luggage

Travel light, and bring a four-wheel case rather than a two-wheel one. A four-wheel case pushes along beside you instead of having to be dragged behind you, which matters more than you would think in the days after surgery.

Prescription medicine

Pack it in your check-in luggage. If you would rather keep it with you, carry the written prescription alongside it — airport security can ask to see it.

What to bring

A neck pillow, loose front-zipped clothing and an adult sippy cup. A small pillow for between the seatbelt and your chest is worth the space, and keep your documents on you.