About Turkey
Learning about Turkey is a wonderful and enriching experience as you discover ancient traditions, a friendly Turkish culture, historical sites as well as places and destinations that will make a wonderful country for your holidays or to live.
In this article, I plan to give you some facts and figures about Turkey however within my blog, you can read more indepth about the country and my experiences now that Turkey is my permanent home.
About Turkey’s Population, Religion, Language and Facts
Religion is Islam
The population is 72,000 million as quoted on 2010.
The capital is Ankara
The currency is New Turkish Lira
The Language is Turkish. Kurdish is also spoken in areas of the East of Turkey
Politics : Secular democracy
Geography : Turkey covers 72,454 sq kilometres and comprises of 81 provinces that are further divided into separate districts.
The time difference is +GMT2
Religion is Islam
The population is 72,000 million as quoted on 2010.
The capital is Ankara
The currency is New Turkish Lira
The Language is Turkish. Kurdish is also spoken in areas of the East of Turkey
Politics : Secular democracy
Geography : Turkey covers 72,454 sq kilometres and comprises of 81 provinces that are further divided into separate districts.
The time difference is +GMT2
About The History of Turkey
Lycian Rock Tombs at Myra
Turkey has a very colourful history and evidence has been found of the earliest forms of civilizations living in the lands that now are classed as part of this country.
Empires that ruled for centuries include, but are not exclusive to the Lycians, Romans, Greeks and Selcuk Dynasty. All over Turkey but specifically on the South West coast are historical sites relating back to these periods.
One of the most prominent empires to rule was the Ottomans. If you go to Istanbul, visit the former home to rulers of the Ottoman empire, Topkapi Palace.
They ruled for approximately 900 years however by the year 1918, the Ottoman sultans sided with the losing countries of the First World War and the Anatolia region was due to be separated for ruling by the winning countries.
This prompted the war of independence led by Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. The war was won in 1923 so independence was declared and the Republic of Turkey was formed. One of Mustafa’s first decisions was to move the capital, formerly Istanbul to Ankara in the center of the country.
Lycian Rock Tombs at Myra
Turkey has a very colourful history and evidence has been found of the earliest forms of civilizations living in the lands that now are classed as part of this country.
Empires that ruled for centuries include, but are not exclusive to the Lycians, Romans, Greeks and Selcuk Dynasty. All over Turkey but specifically on the South West coast are historical sites relating back to these periods.
One of the most prominent empires to rule was the Ottomans. If you go to Istanbul, visit the former home to rulers of the Ottoman empire, Topkapi Palace.
They ruled for approximately 900 years however by the year 1918, the Ottoman sultans sided with the losing countries of the First World War and the Anatolia region was due to be separated for ruling by the winning countries.
This prompted the war of independence led by Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. The war was won in 1923 so independence was declared and the Republic of Turkey was formed. One of Mustafa’s first decisions was to move the capital, formerly Istanbul to Ankara in the center of the country.
About Turkish Culture, Lifestyle and Traditions
Many people who have not visited Turkey before assume it to be a third world country however there are major cities such as Istanbul, Izmir and Ankara that are a thriving hub for local and international businesses as well as tourism.
Turkey is also quite unique in that Turkish culture is a mix of Ottoman, Greek and western influences.
The West and South coast of Turkey as well as the Istanbul peninsula are mostly known for western influences while the East is classed as traditional Turkey which has influences from the Kurdish culture.
The North of Turkey is called the Black Sea region and the towns along this area are known for their natural beauty and green hills thanks to the months of rainfall.
Turkish culture is welcoming to strangers and friendly. The emphasis is on family and friends and you will find it easy to strike up a conversation or make friends with Turkish people, no matter which destination you decide to visit.
Many people who have not visited Turkey before assume it to be a third world country however there are major cities such as Istanbul, Izmir and Ankara that are a thriving hub for local and international businesses as well as tourism.
Turkey is also quite unique in that Turkish culture is a mix of Ottoman, Greek and western influences.
The West and South coast of Turkey as well as the Istanbul peninsula are mostly known for western influences while the East is classed as traditional Turkey which has influences from the Kurdish culture.
The North of Turkey is called the Black Sea region and the towns along this area are known for their natural beauty and green hills thanks to the months of rainfall.
Turkish culture is welcoming to strangers and friendly. The emphasis is on family and friends and you will find it easy to strike up a conversation or make friends with Turkish people, no matter which destination you decide to visit.
Famous Turkish People
Mustafa Kemal Ataturk was founder of the Republic of Turkey, now buried in the capital called Ankara
Orhan Pamuk is a writer and Nobel Prize Winner
Ara Guler was born in Istanbul but of Armenian descent. Award winner photographer
Shaiba Gokcen was the adopted daughter of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk and the first female combat pilot in the world
Ibrahim Tatlises is an award winning singer who has survived three assassination attempts.
Mehmet Emin Karamehmet is a Turkish business man with a net fortune of 4 billion USD
For an extensive list of famous Turkish people, please refer to Wikipedia
Mustafa Kemal Ataturk was founder of the Republic of Turkey, now buried in the capital called Ankara
Orhan Pamuk is a writer and Nobel Prize Winner
Ara Guler was born in Istanbul but of Armenian descent. Award winner photographer
Shaiba Gokcen was the adopted daughter of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk and the first female combat pilot in the world
Ibrahim Tatlises is an award winning singer who has survived three assassination attempts.
Mehmet Emin Karamehmet is a Turkish business man with a net fortune of 4 billion USD
For an extensive list of famous Turkish people, please refer to Wikipedia
Do you need Travel vaccinations?
Malaria is no longer present in the country however people still opt for travel vaccinations against hepatitis A as it is a worldwide disease. Hepatitis A is spread through poor sanitation, bad hygiene and unclean water. The result is bad sickness that can leave a person feeling very lethargic. While hepatitis A can normally be cured within a couple of months, people prefer prevention rather than cure. It is especially advised to have travel vaccinations if you are headed to the East of Turkey.
Malaria is no longer present in the country however people still opt for travel vaccinations against hepatitis A as it is a worldwide disease. Hepatitis A is spread through poor sanitation, bad hygiene and unclean water. The result is bad sickness that can leave a person feeling very lethargic. While hepatitis A can normally be cured within a couple of months, people prefer prevention rather than cure. It is especially advised to have travel vaccinations if you are headed to the East of Turkey.
Popular Holiday Destinations and Resorts within Turkey
There are a number of holiday destinations within Turkey that play host to over 25 million visitors a year.
For a city break, you should consider visiting Istanbul or Ankara. The South-west and West coast of Turkey also has many holiday resorts such as Bodrum, Fethiye, Antalya and Marmaris.
Cappadocia is famous for its cave houses and an early morning balloon ride over the fairy chimneys
The Black sea region is not mainly visited by foreigners however Turks head there for their summer vacations.
Visit the destinations category on my blog to discover more about ideal holiday destinations within Turkey.
There are a number of holiday destinations within Turkey that play host to over 25 million visitors a year.
For a city break, you should consider visiting Istanbul or Ankara. The South-west and West coast of Turkey also has many holiday resorts such as Bodrum, Fethiye, Antalya and Marmaris.
Cappadocia is famous for its cave houses and an early morning balloon ride over the fairy chimneys
The Black sea region is not mainly visited by foreigners however Turks head there for their summer vacations.
Visit the destinations category on my blog to discover more about ideal holiday destinations within Turkey.
Further Reading to Learn More about Turkey
Hande Yener is a Turkish pop star
Facts About Turkey You Never Knew
Ten Tips for Travelling In Turkey
Shopping tips to be found on the post called Souvenirs from Turkey
Learn about cheap and popular Turkish Street Food
Hande Yener is a Turkish pop star
Facts About Turkey You Never Knew
Ten Tips for Travelling In Turkey
Shopping tips to be found on the post called Souvenirs from Turkey
Learn about cheap and popular Turkish Street Food
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Turkish Culture – A Guide to Social Traditions
One thing you will soon realize when visiting Turkey is part of the Turkish culture involves being very sociable. Turkish people love to meet new friends and think nothing of spending half the day talking to a complete stranger while putting the world to rights. People who come from countries that are reserved may be in awe of the friendly nature shown to everyone. With this in mind, I have put together a guide on Turkish culture and social traditions that you will encounter when visiting Turkey.
Hos Geldiniz.
You will hear this phrase often in Turkey, more so if you visit the traditional Turkish restaurants and bars rather than establishments aimed at tourists. It means “welcome” and the phrase that you should return is “Hos bulduk” which means we feel welcome. Don’t get nervous if you forget this term or forget to say it as Turkish people realize that not every foreigner knows the Turkish language.
Men only.
If you are a woman, the only establishments to be aware of are Turkish tea houses. Culturally women do not go in there. Instead look for a Turkish tea garden where couples and families will go. If you are in any doubt, take a look at who else is there. Countless amounts of tables filled with men playing backgammon means it is a no go area for females.
Social gatherings
You will probably find yourself invited to a wedding or a circumcision party by a Turkish person even if you have only known them for a couple of days. The motto here is the more the merrier and the word stranger is not even thought of. Whether alcohol will at the venue is dependent on the family and their background.
I am not going to write a long list of do’s and don’ts because the Turkish people just want you to relax and enjoy yourself. If there is anything you need to know at the time, then someone at the event will inform you of what is happening. As a present to give to the guest of honor, buy small pieces of gold from a jewellery shop or give them money. Wrapped presents and cards are not widely recognized in Turkey.
An Invitation To Their House
Turkish people invite anybody and anyone around to their house. It might just be for breakfast or a formal evening meal. Remember to say Hos bulduk when entering in response when they tell you that you are welcome. Shoes in the house are generally not allowed. Instead you will be given a pair of slippers.
Now here is what you do need to know. If you are going around for dinner, make sure you have a big empty stomach. Dishes after dishes will be wheeled out for you and Turkish people do not take no for an answer. The main meal will be big and then afterwards will be popcorn, nuts, fruits, cake followed by tea and Turkish coffee.
If the family is from a big city, you will probably be seated at the table. However if it is a small village house, a big round stand will be placed in the middle of the floor and everyone will sit around that to help themselves to food in the middle. I have never yet been given a knife when at someone’s home, just a spoon and fork. If you really want to impress then at the end of the meal, say elinize saglik to the cook. This means health to your hands and is appreciation of a good meal.
When going round to someone’s house for a meal, I normally follow the women into the kitchen and I will help them to prepare the meal. During this time, men will be sat in the living room discussing daily events and gossiping. The same applies to clearing up after the meal.
If you want to help by washing the dishes, remember that Muslims do not believe in bathing or washing items in stagnant water. Therefore there will be a washing up bowl, but after they will rinse the plates and cutlery under a running tap. That is also the reason why you will not generally find plugs for the sink in hotel rooms either.
So that is your quick introduction to social customs in Turkey. If you think there is anything that I have missed out then please feel free to add them below. Likewise if you want to know more and have a question, add it below and I will be more than happy to answer it for you.
One thing you will soon realize when visiting Turkey is part of the Turkish culture involves being very sociable. Turkish people love to meet new friends and think nothing of spending half the day talking to a complete stranger while putting the world to rights. People who come from countries that are reserved may be in awe of the friendly nature shown to everyone. With this in mind, I have put together a guide on Turkish culture and social traditions that you will encounter when visiting Turkey.
Hos Geldiniz.
You will hear this phrase often in Turkey, more so if you visit the traditional Turkish restaurants and bars rather than establishments aimed at tourists. It means “welcome” and the phrase that you should return is “Hos bulduk” which means we feel welcome. Don’t get nervous if you forget this term or forget to say it as Turkish people realize that not every foreigner knows the Turkish language.
Men only.
If you are a woman, the only establishments to be aware of are Turkish tea houses. Culturally women do not go in there. Instead look for a Turkish tea garden where couples and families will go. If you are in any doubt, take a look at who else is there. Countless amounts of tables filled with men playing backgammon means it is a no go area for females.
Social gatherings
You will probably find yourself invited to a wedding or a circumcision party by a Turkish person even if you have only known them for a couple of days. The motto here is the more the merrier and the word stranger is not even thought of. Whether alcohol will at the venue is dependent on the family and their background.
I am not going to write a long list of do’s and don’ts because the Turkish people just want you to relax and enjoy yourself. If there is anything you need to know at the time, then someone at the event will inform you of what is happening. As a present to give to the guest of honor, buy small pieces of gold from a jewellery shop or give them money. Wrapped presents and cards are not widely recognized in Turkey.
An Invitation To Their House
Turkish people invite anybody and anyone around to their house. It might just be for breakfast or a formal evening meal. Remember to say Hos bulduk when entering in response when they tell you that you are welcome. Shoes in the house are generally not allowed. Instead you will be given a pair of slippers.
Now here is what you do need to know. If you are going around for dinner, make sure you have a big empty stomach. Dishes after dishes will be wheeled out for you and Turkish people do not take no for an answer. The main meal will be big and then afterwards will be popcorn, nuts, fruits, cake followed by tea and Turkish coffee.
If the family is from a big city, you will probably be seated at the table. However if it is a small village house, a big round stand will be placed in the middle of the floor and everyone will sit around that to help themselves to food in the middle. I have never yet been given a knife when at someone’s home, just a spoon and fork. If you really want to impress then at the end of the meal, say elinize saglik to the cook. This means health to your hands and is appreciation of a good meal.
When going round to someone’s house for a meal, I normally follow the women into the kitchen and I will help them to prepare the meal. During this time, men will be sat in the living room discussing daily events and gossiping. The same applies to clearing up after the meal.
If you want to help by washing the dishes, remember that Muslims do not believe in bathing or washing items in stagnant water. Therefore there will be a washing up bowl, but after they will rinse the plates and cutlery under a running tap. That is also the reason why you will not generally find plugs for the sink in hotel rooms either.
So that is your quick introduction to social customs in Turkey. If you think there is anything that I have missed out then please feel free to add them below. Likewise if you want to know more and have a question, add it below and I will be more than happy to answer it for you.
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