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Understanding the price shock at Istanbul Airport
Traveling can be an exhilarating experience, but it often comes with unexpected costs, especially when it comes to food and drinks at airports. Istanbul Airport, recently dubbed the most expensive airport for food and drinks by the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, has travelers reeling from its steep prices.
With a beer costing nearly $20 and a simple banana priced at almost $7, it’s clear that budget-conscious travelers need to prepare for a financial shock.
What are the prices really like?
Imagine arriving at the airport, feeling a bit peckish, and deciding to grab a bite.
You might think a small meal would suffice, but at Istanbul Airport, even a three-ounce piece of lasagna is priced at an astonishing $28. Reports from L’Economia describe the lasagna as looking more like a brick than a meal, raising questions about its value.
Other items, like a chicken salad, can set you back nearly $20, while a croissant may cost between $17 and $20. These prices are not just high; they are exorbitantly so, leaving many travelers feeling frustrated.
Fast food chains and their inflated prices
Even familiar fast-food chains like Popeyes and McDonald’s are not immune to the price hikes at Istanbul Airport. A combo meal featuring four fried chicken wings, fries, and a Coke can cost around $20, while a Big Mac or Double Quarter Pounder ranges from $25 to $29.
This trend of inflated prices has sparked outrage among travelers, with many taking to social media platforms like Reddit to voice their concerns. One user lamented that the prices were two to four times higher than those at Frankfurt Airport, despite the terminal’s impressive design.
Why are prices so high?
The high prices at Istanbul Airport can be attributed to several factors. Airports often capitalize on the captive audience of travelers who have limited options once they pass through security. Many travelers feel they have no choice but to pay these inflated prices, leading to a cycle of frustration and dissatisfaction. As one Reddit user pointed out, while the airport itself is magnificent, the exorbitant food prices detract from the overall experience. This sentiment is echoed by many who have traveled through Istanbul, highlighting a growing concern about the affordability of airport amenities.
