Hi Number 2. We opened our account with Garanti, instead of carry large amounts to deposit can open with 1000YTL =£396 (today)you can then transfer by swift from bank in UK approx 5days, or by cheque, this is cheaper as charge on 7.50YTL per cheque, but the downside is cheques can take 3 weeks to clear.
The interest rate this month has dropped to 19%, remember that tax will be deducted monthly from this at present it is 18% eg..
£10,000= 25,200.00YTL x19%=4,788YTL divide by 12 = 399YTL permnth less tax of 18% =327.18YTL (or 130 large Efes)
This is as accurate as can be with the fluctuation in figures, but is a pretty good guide to work with.
have fun.