Welcome To Turkey
Your Essential Travel Guide
Turkey, where East meets West, offers an enchanting journey for travelers seeking a unique blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. With its diverse heritage, fascinating architecture, and mouthwatering cuisine, Turkey promises an unforgettable experience for all who venture there.
Start your exploration in Istanbul, a city straddling two continents, where the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque showcase the grandeur of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture. Meander through the bustling bazaars, savour authentic Turkish delights, and take a Bosphorus cruise to witness the city’s magic from the water. Explore the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, known for its fairy chimneys, hot air balloon rides, and rock-cut cave dwellings.
Turkey’s coastline is a haven for beach lovers, with the Turquoise Coast and its crystal-clear waters inviting relaxation and water sports. Travel to the ancient city of Ephesus to uncover millennia-old ruins, and hike the otherworldly terraces of Pamukkale. Delight in the Turkish tradition of tea and baklava, and experience the warmth of Turkish hospitality. In Turkey, you’ll encounter a captivating fusion of tradition and modernity, a rich tapestry of cultures, and a cuisine that’s a feast for the senses. Turkey isn’t just a destination; it’s an adventure through time, a collision of cultures, and a celebration of life’s vibrant flavours.
- The official language is Turkish, but English is spoken and understood in tourist areas.
- Learning a few basic Turkish phrases can help you navigate and communicate more effectively during your travels in Turkey.
- Hello: “Merhaba” (mehr-hah-bah) – A common greeting.
- Thank you: “Teşekkür ederim” (teh-shehk-kur ed-ehr-im) – To express gratitude.
- Yes: “Evet” (eh-vet) – The affirmative response.
- No: “Hayır” (hah-yuhr) – The negative response.
- Please: “Lütfen” (loot-fen) – To politely request something.
- Excuse me / Sorry: “Özür dilerim” (o-zoor dee-leh-rim) – Used to apologize or get someone’s attention.
- Good morning: “Günaydın” (goo-nah-yduhn) – A polite morning greeting.
- Good afternoon: “Tünaydın” (tuh-nah-yduhn) – A polite afternoon greeting.
- Good evening: “İyi akşamlar” (ee-yee ahk-shah-lahr) – A polite evening greeting.
- How are you?: “Nasılsınız?” (nah-suhl-suhn-uhz) – A common way to inquire about someone’s well-being.
- What is your name?: “Adınız ne?” (ah-din-uhz neh) – Used to ask someone’s name.
- My name is [Your Name]: “[Your Name] benim adım.” ([Your Name] beh-nim ah-duhm) – To introduce yourself.
- I don’t understand: “Anlamıyorum” (ahn-lah-muh-yoh-room) – When you need to express that you don’t comprehend something.
- Where is…?: “[Place] nerede?” ([Place] neh-reh-deh) – Use this phrase when looking for directions.
- How much is this?: “Bunu ne kadar?” (boo-noh neh kah-dahr) – Useful for asking about prices.
- Water: “Su” (soo) – A handy word to know when requesting water.
Savor these traditional Turkish dishes:
- Kebabs: Try various grilled meat kebabs, such as Adana kebap and shish kebab.
- Baklava: A sweet pastry dessert made with layers of filo dough, nuts, and honey.
- Turkish Delight: A sweet confection made from starch, sugar, and various flavors.
- Manti: Small dumplings typically served with yogurt and garlic sauce.
- Greetings: Use polite greetings like “Merhaba” (mehr-hah-bah) for hello and “Tesekkür ederim” (teh-shehk-kur ed-ehr-im) for thank you.
- Dress Modestly: When visiting religious sites, women should cover their heads and shoulders, and both men and women should dress modestly.
- Turkey is generally safe for tourists, but be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas, especially in tourist hotspots.
- Follow local regulations and customs, especially in religious sites.
- Turkey has a well-developed healthcare system. Consider travel insurance for medical coverage.
- Stay hydrated, especially during hot summer months, and use sunscreen.
Check the visa requirements for your nationality before traveling to Turkey. Many nationalities can obtain an e-Visa online or a visa on arrival.
Popular Sites To Visit In Turkey
Explore historic sites like the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar.
Instabul
Experience the unique landscapes and hot air balloon rides.
Cappadocia
Discover the ancient ruins of Ephesus, including the Library of Celsus and the Temple of Artemis.
Ephesus
Mahe
Black River Gorges National Park
Mauritius Botanical Garden
Alexandra Falls
Turkey has a diverse climate. Coastal regions have a Mediterranean climate, while the interior experiences hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit depends on your destination and interests.
Climate
Local Currency
The official currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, but it’s a good idea to carry cash for smaller towns and markets.
Police: 155
Medical emergency: 112
Emergency Numbers
Local Festivals
If your visit coincides with festivals like the Istanbul International Film Festival or the Mevlana Whirling Dervishes Festival, enjoy the local culture and festivities.
Accolades
