“ Where East meets West, and beauty knows no bounds.”
– David Foster Wallace, American novelist
Forget the Eiffel Tower and the Colosseum – Turkey is the new travel hotspot, and you’re missing out! Whether you’re drawn to the bustling bazaars of Istanbul, Antalya’s stunning beaches, or Ephesus’s ancient ruins, Turkey has something for everyone. But before you pack your bags for a whirlwind tour of mosques and markets, you need to know a few things as a beginner.
In this article, we will cover everything you need to know as a beginner before setting off on your journey toward Turkey.
So, without much ado, let’s get right in.
Planning Your Trip To Turkey
Planning a trip to Turkey involves carefully considering various things to ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable experience. From visa requirements to choosing the best time to visit and navigating the country’s transportation network, thorough planning is critical to a successful journey.
Visa Requirements
One of the first steps in planning your trip to Turkey is understanding the visa requirements. You may need a visa to enter the country, depending on your nationality.
It’s essential to check the visa requirements well and apply for a suitable visa to avoid any last-minute hassles. Turkey offers different types of visas, including e-visas, visa on arrival, and sticker visas, depending on the purpose and duration of your stay.
Be sure to research the specific requirements for your nationality and apply for the visa accordingly.
Currency
The Turkish Lira (TRY) is the official currency. You can exchange your currency for TRY at banks, exchange offices, or ATMs.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. However, Turkey is a year-round destination with something to offer every season.
Flights and Accommodation
Book your flights and accommodation priorly, especially during peak season. Consider the location that perfectly suits your interests, whether it’s a bustling city center, a beach resort, or a historic town.
How to Get Around?
It’s easy to get from one city or area to another in Turkey thanks to its well-developed transportation network. You can get around the country in several ways, such as by bus, train, or local flight. When planning your trip, consider the easiest and least expensive ways to get around based on your schedule and budget.
Taking the bus or train can give you beautiful scenery views and a chance to learn about the culture of the place you’re visiting. When picking your mode of transportation, you should also consider things like travel time, comfort, and ease of access. If you buy your tickets beforehand, especially during busy travel times, you can be sure they will be available and avoid problems at the last minute.
What To Eat in Turkey?
Turkish Cuisine
Turkish cuisine is a delicious yet unique blend of Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Ottoman influences. Try local specialties like kebabs, dolma, baklava, and Turkish delight.
Spicy food
Be mindful of spice levels; some Turkish dishes can be pretty spicy.
Drinking Water
Bottled water is recommended, as tap water might not be safe to drink everywhere.
Do’s and Don’ts for a Seamless Turkish Adventure
Respecting Local Customs
Do
Dress modestly
When visiting religious sites or conservative areas, cover your shoulders and knees. Opt for loose-fitting clothing, especially in smaller towns and villages.
Remove shoes
It’s customary to remove shoes before entering mosques, mausoleums, and sometimes even private homes. Look for designated shoe racks or areas to leave your footwear.
Be mindful of greetings.
A handshake is the standard greeting, but a slight bow of the head can also show respect, especially towards elders.
Respect religious practices
Be mindful of prayer times and avoid loud noises or disruptive behavior near mosques during these times.
Don’t
Wear revealing clothing
Avoid wearing overly short shorts, sleeveless shirts, or tight-fitting clothing, especially in religious areas.
Point your foot at someone.
It is considered rude in Turkish culture.
Talk loudly or act disruptively.
Maintain a respectful volume and avoid boisterous behavior in public spaces.
The most beautiful people I’ve ever met. So helpful and kind. I felt so welcome everywhere I went.”
– Anonymous traveler
Social Interactions
Do
Learn a few basic phrases
Even a few simple greetings like “Merhaba” (hello), “Teşekkür ederim” (thank you), and “Lütfen” (please) go a long way in showing respect and appreciation.
Smile and be friendly.
Turks are generally warm and welcoming, so a friendly smile and positive attitude will be appreciated.
Be patient with communication.
Not everyone speaks English fluently, so be patient when communicating and appreciate any effort locals make to understand you.
Don’t
Get impatient or frustrated.
If communication is challenging, remain calm and try to rephrase your request or use gestures.
Engage in public displays of affection.
While not strictly forbidden, excessive public displays of affection are generally frowned upon.
Discuss sensitive topics
Avoid bringing up sensitive topics like politics or religion in casual conversation, as these can be culturally charged.
Shop with Confidence
Do
Bargain in bazaars
Haggling is expected in bazaars and markets. Start with a fair offer below the asking price, and be prepared to negotiate politely.
Carry small change
Having smaller denominations of Turkish Lira handy will help make purchases, tip, and use public transportation.
Purchase a museum pass.
If you plan on visiting several museums, consider purchasing a museum pass for discounted entry.
Don’t
Overpay significantly
While bargaining is expected, avoid being disrespectful with meagre offers.
Exchange money on the street
Only exchange your money at authorized exchange offices or banks to avoid scams.
Litter
Be responsible, and don’t litter here and there. Dispose of the garbage properly in designated bins.
Safety and Security
General safety
Turkey is generally considered a safe country for tourists. However, it’s always wise to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions, especially in crowded areas.
Scams
Be cautious of scams, particularly in tourist areas. Don’t exchange money with street vendors; be wary of individuals offering unsolicited help.
Travel Insurance
Get travel insurance to be on the safe side and to cover any unexpected medical emergencies or trip cancellations.
Additional Tips
Purchase a museum pass
Before visiting multiple museums, consider purchasing a museum pass for discounted entry.
Sim card
Purchase a local SIM card for affordable internet access and calls during your stay.
Learn about local customs and etiquette.
Researching basic cultural norms beforehand can help you avoid unintentional faux pas.
Be respectful of religious beliefs.
Understand the importance of religion in Turkish culture and be mindful of practices during your visit.
Let’s Close The Book
Finally, adequate planning is crucial if you want your vacation to Turkey to go off without a hitch.
You can make the most of your time in this stunning and varied nation by familiarizing yourself with the visa requirements, planning your trip around optimal weather conditions, and investigating your transportation alternatives.
So, start planning your Turkish adventure today and get ready to explore all this fascinating destination offers. Safe travels!
Writer’s Bio
Laraib is a passionate travel enthusiast and writer who brings diverse destinations to life through her storytelling. Her passion for travel and her talent for crafting engaging prose makes her a valuable resource for anyone seeking to be on a virtual or physical journey around the globe.