planning a trip to
Turkey
Here is what you need to know:
Turkey is a country like no other, with a rich history that spans from the ancient Greeks to the Roman and Byzantine empires, through the Ottoman era, and into the modern-day Republic of Turkey.
Throughout the country, you’ll find fascinating remnants of the past.
I (Alex) had the privilege of living in Turkey for 10 months, and have traveled through it extensively before.
What makes Turkey so special is not only its historical significance but also the warmth of its people, their wonderful traditions, and, of course, the delicious food.
The çay, Turkish coffee, and Raki are must-try drinks, and the food, while not always the healthiest, is simply incredible. From fresh fishto kebabs and meze, Turkey’s cuisine is a true highlight of any visit.
About
Turkey is a transcontinental country, primarily located on the Anatolian peninsula in Western Asia, with a small portion on the Balkan peninsula in Southeastern Europe.
Its largest city, Istanbul, spans both Europe and Asia, while the capital is Ankara.
Covering an area of 783,356 km², Turkey has a population of approximately 83 million people, making it the 18th most populous country in the world.
Around 70 to 80% of the population identify as Turkish, with 15 to 20% identifying as Kurd.
Called al bayrak (the red flag), Turkey’s flag design is directly derived from the late Ottoman flag.
The star and crescent are symbols of the Ottoman Empire and, by extension, represent the nation today. However, it’s believed that their origin dates back to the Byzantine Empire, which used this symbol as early as the 4th century. It appeared on Byzantine coins and on the shields of Christian warrior saints until the 13th century.
The red color in the Ottoman period symbolized secular institutions, representing the state and its leadership.
Simit is a circular bread encrusted with sesame seeds, and it’s a must-try in Turkey. You can find it at bakeries or buy it from street vendors known as Simitçi.
Originally popularized across the cuisines of the former Ottoman Empire, simit remains a beloved specialty in Turkey.
While modern variations exist, nothing beats the original version, which pairs perfectly with çay (Turkish black tea). This is the local way to snack, offering a simple yet delicious experience.
Certainly! Here’s the previous version:
Mustafa Kemal Atatürk is most probably the most known and admired person in Turkey.
He was a Turkish field marshal, revolutionary statesman, author, and the founder of the Republic of Turkey, serving as its first President from 1923 until his death in 1938.
His leadership is what shaped the Turkey of today’s. He was a modern leader and used progressive reforms to modernize its country into a secular and industrial nation.
It’s also him that introduced the new Turkish language and integrated over 100,000 French words in it. He was fond of the French language.
Belly dancing is extremely popular in Turkey, not just for tourists but also as a traditional art form that spans generations.
While nightclubs or local restaurants are common venues, belly dancers can also be hired for weddings, circumcisions, and other special events.
Far from being just a tourist show, belly dancing is an ancient art enjoyed by Turks of all classes and ages. It may trace its roots back to ancient Anatolian fertility dances.
Belly dancers are typically women with well-trained abdominal muscles, and they often accompany their dance moves with finger cymbals, called zil (which translates to “cymbal” or “bell” in Turkish).
During the performance, appreciative onlookers sometimes place money notes into the dancer’s costume, continuing the tradition of audience interaction with the performance.
What to expect?
Language: The official language is Turkish, but the younger generation and many people in tourist areas can speak some English, especially in the main cities.
Food: Turkish food is delicious and a must-try. Meat lovers will adore the local kebab, fish lovers must try the traditional Fish and Raki, and those following a plant-based diet will devour the meze.
Transportation: In major cities, the metro or buses are the easiest options. To travel between cities, buses and coaches are ideal, while for longer distances, planes are the most efficient.
Money: The currency in Turkey is the Lira. Exchange rates vary, but during our visit, 1€ was worth 7.75 Lira. ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are widely accepted.
Plugs: The plugs in Turkey are type C (Euro style). The standard voltage is 220V with a frequency of 50Hz.
Safety: Tourist areas are generally very safe, and traveling within Turkey is also secure. However, it’s best to avoid getting too close to the Syrian border or engaging in any political demonstrations.
All the articles
Looking for something in particular ?
Pssst, did you know that...
If you purchase something through our links we earn a small fee. However, you still pay the same. Win-win! And one day we may get to be full time travel blogger =)
