Turkey is a Eurasian republic spanning the Anatolian peninsula in western Asia and Thrace (Rumelia) in southeastern Europe’s Balkan area. Bulgaria to the northwest, Greece to the west, Georgia to the northeast, Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Iran to the east, and Iraq and Syria to the southeast; Turkey has borders with eight nations.
To the south, the Mediterranean Sea and Cyprus, to the west, the Aegean Sea and Archipelago, and in the north, the Black Sea. The Sea of Marmara and the Turkish Straits (the Bosporus and the Dardanelles), which separate Anatolia and Thrace, is widely thought to be the border between Asia and Europe, making Turkey transcontinental.
Turkey’s culture is a unique combination of Eastern and Western traditions due to its strategic location at the crossroads of two continents. Turkey has grown in strategic importance as a significant regional presence on the Eurasian landmass with a significant historical, cultural, and economic impact.
In 1923, under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, Turkey’s political system was established following the fall of the Ottoman Empire in the aftermath of World War I. As a result, the country is classified as a developed country by the United States Central Intelligence Agency and a newly industrialized country by economists and political scientists worldwide. Since then, Turkey has been increasingly connected with the West while maintaining strong ties with the rest of the globe, including the Arab world.
Turkey is a transcontinental country. The Bosporus, Marmara Sea, and Dardanelles separate Asia (primarily Anatolia) from European Turkey. Seas surround Turkey on three sides; west by the Aegean Sea, north by the Black Sea, and south by the Mediterranean Sea. Turkey is also bordered in the northwest by the Sea of Marmara.
1. Hot Weather in Turkey
Turkey is in a geographical position between the warm and temperate climate zones. Therefore, cold climate types are not seen. Especially, since it is located in the temperate climate zone, it experiences many different seasons. There are generally three different climate types in Turkey. One of them is the Black Sea climate, one is the Mediterranean climate and the other is the continental climate. The continental climate is seen in the inner and eastern regions of Turkey. Because the mountains are parallel to the sea, hot air does not enter these regions. Therefore, while the summer months are hot and dry, the winter months are quite cold and harsh. The Black Sea climate affects the Black Sea region and the Northern parts of the Marmara Region. While the summer months are cool and rainy, the winter months are mild and rainy. The Mediterranean climate affects the Southern region of the Aegean Region, the coastal areas, and the Marmara Region. The summers are hot and dry, and the winters are warm and rainy. Especially in July and August, the weather is extremely hot.
2. Seasonal Dishes Available in Turkey
The variety of agricultural products grown in Turkey is very high due to the diversity of its climate, landforms, soil characteristics, and vegetation. In terms of climate, Mediterranean Climate, Black Sea Climate, and Continental Climate are seen in Turkey, and there are fresh and saltwater resources. While this is effective on agricultural products, it ensures diversity. Today, we can always find every vegetable and fruit in markets, greengrocers, and markets. However, it is not possible to grow all vegetables and fruits by natural methods in all geographical and climatic conditions. Vegetables and fruits grown naturally and on time are rich in vitamins, minerals, and nutritional value and are delicious. According to the season, vegetables and fruits grown in Turkey are as follows:
- In the summer season are; cherry, strawberry, raspberry, plum, peach, nectarine, grape, cherry, apricot, green plum, damson, melon, watermelon, mulberry, fig, blackberry, black mulberry, and malt. Summer vegetables include fresh potatoes, lettuce, artichokes, zucchini, green beans, okra, peas, bell pepper, green pepper, fresh garlic, corn, cucumber, tomato, and cowpea.
- In the spring season are; strawberry, cherry, pineapple, lemon, raw apricot, apple, malt plum, loquat, avocado, and pineapple. You can use vegetables such as artichokes, asparagus, beets, kidney beans, carrots, peas, tomatoes, pumpkin, purslane, broad beans, basil, green beans, and shallots in your meals during the spring season.
- The fruits you can reach in autumn are; apples, pomegranates, oranges, tangerines, fresh hazelnuts, fresh walnuts, damsons, peaches, melons, bananas, jujube, grapes, and pears. In autumn, you can consume mushrooms, spinach, leeks, corn, carrots, curly greens, radishes, bell peppers, capita peppers, celery, broccoli, spinach, and chard as vegetables.
- The fruits you can reach in winter are; apples, quinces, oranges, tangerine, grapefruit, banana, chestnut, pomegranate, pear, and kiwi. Among the vegetables to be eaten according to the winter season, there are yams, cabbage, pumpkin, leek, cauliflower, celery, broccoli, collard greens, carrots, spinach, chard, and radishes.
3. Social life in Turkey
It is very easy to adapt to social life in Turkey. Even if you learn some street language or just pronounce words, people are very helpful. There are so many opportunities to socialize. Cinema, concert, theater, and sightseeing tours are some of them. In addition, municipalities or private institutions have very good programs to learn a new language or acquire a hobby, and even the Ismek courses, which are the project of the municipality, are free.
4. Cultural differences in Turkey
As a multicultural society in Turkey, there are many different traditions, customs, and beliefs, both regionally and experientially. As a result of metropolitan city life, we meet more people from different cultures in our social environment and we continue our lives intertwined.
5. Getting used to it
For foreigners to adapt comfortably, they need to make observations of their environment. They should examine people verbally and behaviorally and should not behave in a way that is very contrary to them. Otherwise, it may be difficult for them to adapt.
6. Cost-Effective Living in Turkey
If you have a good job and income, when living standards and cost of living are compared, Turkey offers a high standard of living with low costs.
7. Strangers are friendly and generous in Turkey
Turks are a very helpful and friendly nation. They will treat you well as long as you do not offend them verbally and in behavior.
8. Explore your new home in Turkey
Being the center of the house you choose will make your life much easier. Especially in central locations, you can choose a house close to many transportation opportunities. Knowing about your location will make your life easier. The first answer to the question of what to do when moving to a new house will be to discover the shops you may need in the vicinity. You should quickly learn the location of the supermarkets, grocery stores, greengrocers, and butchers around the house. When moving to a new home, one of the first things to do is renovations. When you decide to keep the house, you should notice the existing and potential problems of the house. Otherwise, these problems will cause you difficulties when you move into the house. Solving these problems beforehand will be much more comfortable as the house will be empty. It also creates more difficulty for cleaning after repairs are made while your belongings are at home.
What are the Features of Turkey?
Some of the best features of Turkey are explained below.
- Turkish Cuisine: Turkish baklava with an out-of-this-world sweetness, Turkish tea, and Turkish kebab.
- Istanbul: Istanbul is Turkey’s largest metropolis, as well as the country’s top tourism attraction. Most international visitors discover the Sultanahmet neighborhood and iconic landmarks, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace. The city offers more on the Asian side and the areas near the Bosphorus.
- Carpets and Rugs: Turks’ passion for carpets and rugs remained popular throughout the years. The fact that they are handmade, each design symbolizes a unique story. It is a story of cultural history dating back to when Turkish people were nomadic. The price of a carpet is ranging from US$200 to US$5,000 on average.
- Medical Care: Turkey has spent millions on its health tourism business. Some of the world’s most extraordinary professionals work in top-notch centers of excellence. Numerous foreigners also visit Turkey for dental treatment, which is less expensive and delivers better outcomes than in other European nations.
- The Traditional Hammam: While Turkish baths are mainly used for recreational purposes nowadays, there was a period when a visit to the baths was more of a need. Baths were a vital part of social life in ancient days. Mothers physically sized up prospective wives for their sons and ladies frequently gathered in the baths for a celebration before their marriage.
What are the Features of the Turkish Language?
The features of the Turkish language are listed below.
- Turkish is the most extensively spoken Turkic language, with an estimated 70 – 80 million speakers. Turkish is Turkey’s national language. Smaller communities of Turkish speakers exist in Iraq, Syria, Germany, Austria, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Northern Cyprus, Greece, the Caucasus, and other Europe and Central Asia regions.
- Its vowel harmony and frequent agglutination distinguish the Turkish language. Turkish’s primary word order is subject-object-verb. There are no noun classes or grammatical genders in Turkish. Instead, the language employs honorifics and a strong T–V difference to denote various degrees of politeness, social distance, age, civility, and familiarity with the addressee. The plural second-person pronoun and verb forms are employed in deference while referring to a single individual.
- Turkish has been affected by Farsi and Arabic, two languages are spoken in nations bordering Turkey, which makes sense given its geographical position. Additionally, Turkish has been influenced by the French language, particularly when it comes to financial and economic terms.
How to Learn the Turkish Language?
Turkish is the mother tongue of approximately 80 million people globally, making it the 20th most common language. Acquiring fluency in a foreign language requires a significant amount of time and effort.
Turkish has 29 letters, 8 vowels, and 21 consonants. Note that the Turkish alphabet does not contain the letters q, w, or x. After mastering the alphabet and sounds, you can read Turkish without knowing the meaning of the words. Here are a few tips on how to learn the Turkish Language.
If you want to improve your vocabulary fast, begin with the most frequently used Turkish terms and phrases in your everyday life. You’ll be pleased to learn that Turkish has many words from English, French, and other languages. Constructing sentences is surprisingly straightforward. This may appear confısing at first, but with experience, you will get familiar with it. Immersion is a necessary component of any language learning process. If you want to learn Turkish quickly and make progress, you must include Turkish in your everyday life.
The Turkish language has unusual vowel harmony. You may become acquainted with the language’s flow and melody by listening to Turkish music and podcasts.
Children’s books are excellent alternatives for beginners since they contain short, easy-to-read sentences. Additionally, children’s picture books contextualize basic language, which helps in the understanding of unfamiliar terms.
How Many Days Can You Learn the Turkish Language?
Turkish is the most straightforward Turkic language to understand since it utilizes the same Latin alphabet as English. If you commit to studying Turkish, you will comprehend it effectively within six to eight months. While mastering Turkish would take years, you may learn and speak it quite well in as little as six to eight months.
What are the Points to Consider While Learning Turkish Language?
Turkish has a distinct vocabulary. One of the things that many learners are unaware of before beginning their Turkish studies is that Turkish has a different word order than English. While the majority of European languages employ the subject+verb+object structure, Turkish uses the subject+object+verb structure.
Turks use second-person pronouns to express degrees of politeness. For example, Turks use “sen” with family and friends and “siz” with unfamiliar people. In a formal setting, they may use “sizler”. These all mean “you” in English. Even if you use the wrong pronoun, Turkish people appreciate your attempt to learn the language. If you wish to perfect this skill, practice with Turkish people or watch Turkish films.
Vowels in Turkish work differently. Two vowels together, as in “liar” is frequent in English. This does not happen in Turkish, except when words like “kuafor” are used. In Turkish, there are no diphthongs. When two vowels come together, they are usually from distinct syllables. While English speakers are used to fading vowel sounds, in Turkish, they are always robust.
Turkish is an interlanguage. There is nothing better than learning two languages for one. For example, an Azerbaijani dialect of Turkish is also spoken in the Balkan Gagauz region. While there are distinctions between these languages, speaking Turkish will allow you to interact with native speakers of five other languages.
What are the Features of Turkish Currency?
Here are the features of Turkish Currency.
- The Lira’s symbol was chosen in a competition. As of 2012, the Turkish Lira is represented by this enticing picture. This was picked following a contest in which candidates were invited to submit proposals for a new currency sign. Tülay Lale, an engineer, submitted the winning entry. The emblem is intended to resemble a half-anchor with two upward-facing lines, implying that the money is in a secure harbor. The rising lines denote its ascension in status.
- Ataturk appears on Turkish Lira banknotes. Each Lira banknote has the picture of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. Ataturk was both the founder and first president of the modern Republic of Turkey. He was the president from October 1923 to November 1938. He is widely considered to be one of the greatest leaders of the 20th century. While his image appears on the front of each banknote, the backs include photographs of important Turkish personalities from history.
- The Lira originated in the Ottoman Empire. Turkey was the Ottoman Empire’s capital from 1299 to 1922. In 1844, the term “Lira” was used for the first time. It was a single gold coin. Kurus was also utilized during this period. With the invention of paper money, the Turkish Lira replaced the Ottoman Lira for banknotes, while kurus became the word for cents.
- You cannot use pre-existing Lira. In many nations, older banknotes can still be used and retain their original value. Unfortunately, this is not the case in Turkey because Lira adopted a new Turkish Lira in 2005 and then again in 2009. As a result, payment for the 2005 series is no longer accepted. However, it was permitted to be exchanged for the new Lira until 2019.
What are the Points to Consider When Using Turkish Currency?
Individuals visiting Turkey frequently want to learn about money first because they want to spend it wisely.
Using ATMs to withdraw Euros, USD, Turkish Lira, and British pounds is safer and more convenient. Notify your bank of your trip to Turkey before leaving your native country. Your account may be blocked due to suspicious behavior. Certain banks waive overseas transaction fees, while others do. The daily withdrawal limit remains the same as in your native country. Certain ATMs have an English language option on the keypad, while others don’t, and other cash machines do not accept foreign money.
In Turkey, avoid using traveler’s cheques. They are outdated, many establishments no longer take them. While most establishments in Turkey accept credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, and American Express), you should tell your credit card provider that you will be traveling to Turkey. Establishments such as hotels, stores, restaurants, and travel agents have pos machines.
One of the fastest-growing money transfer methods is via a forex transfer firm. These firms can transfer cash between bank accounts at a lower cost than your bank. The primary advantage is that, rather than being charged 5% or more to move your money, expenses are often 2% or less.
All products sold in Turkey are already subject to an 18% tax. If you are a non-resident of Turkey and have been in the country for less than six months, you are entitled to tax refunds on purchases exceeding US$8, provided at a recognized tax-free shop. Refunds are available at the airport upon departure from Turkey. In addition to this, Turkey is a very safe country.
How to Save Turkish Currency?
Using the advantage of increased interest rates is a regular way to save Turkish currency. On the other hand, investment in Turkey, such as buying an apartment, can result in a profitable return and help to save Turkish currency.
Is Life Expensive in Turkey?
Ceoworld Magazine ranked Turkey as Europe’s second most inexpensive country to live in. Turkey is the 102nd cheapest country out of 132 countries, in terms of cost of living, rent, groceries, dining out, electricity, and gas.
The minimum wage in Turkey is US$260 per month and the average monthly wage is US$461.19. While monthly expenses vary depending on location and lifestyle, those who earn the average amount are estimated to have enough money to cover basic expenses and lead a decent life. Large cities are usually more expensive, from rent to daily expenses.
|
City |
Cost Of Living Index |
|
Ankara |
34.77 |
|
Antalya |
33.78 |
|
Bursa |
33.72 |
| Istanbul |
37.85 |
| Izmir |
34.03 |
Are Houses Expensive in Turkey?
Turkey’s property prices have grown by 75.6% in the last four years. The real estate market has been primarily fueled by increased mortgage lending, urbanization, and robust economic growth.
However, as soon as Turkey’s real estate market entered the worldwide market, affordable properties attracted all nationalities. While luxury homes are accessible, in holiday towns such as Altinkum on the Aegean coast, buyers with a budget of US$60,000 can secure a 2-bedroom furnished apartment.
According to the CBRT, Istanbul is the most expensive city to buy a house in Turkey, with an average price of US$765 per square meter in the first quarter of 2020. The average cost of a house in Turkey is US$455 per square meter.
How Much Money Do You Need to Buy a House in Turkey?
Costs vary when buying a property in Turkey. You can buy e a 100-square-meter apartment in Istanbul starting from US$71,000. However, specific deals can be found in the city’s outskirts or new construction zones.
Additional costs of buying a house in Turkey include US$1,500 for the attorney, US$43 for notary and translation fees, between US$72 and US$ 82 for the appraisal report, taxes, real estate agent fees, US$15 for insurance against earthquakes, US$19 for the lad register, US$35 for stamp duty, and US$53 for subscription fees.
Where to Live in Turkey?
Some of the most beautiful cities to live in in Turkey are listed below.
- Istanbul: Istanbul is the top destination for professional ex-pats. Unquestionably one of the finest locations in Turkey for people seeking jobs, particularly in the business sphere, and magnificent apartment in Istanbul.
- Antalya: Antalya offers tourism-related business and retirement. Antalya is a well-known tourist destination and would be an excellent location for anyone considering opening a restaurant or hotel. Of course, this means that work will be seasonal but it still provides excellent opportunities.
- Bodrum: Bodrum swiftly developed into a high-class city as a result of its 1960s connection with international artists and authors. Nowadays, it has grown into a famous tourist attraction, especially among celebrities. Kate Moss, Bill Gates, Nicole Kidman, and Tom Hanks have all been sighted here in the past.
- Bursa: Bursa is a historic city close to Istanbul. Many foreigners favor Turkey’s west coast due to its cosmopolitan lifestyle. However, if you want to experience authentic Turkey, Bursa is ideal.
- Izmir: Izmir is an ideal retirement destination. If retirement is the reason main reason to move to Turkey, you won’t find a better place than Izmir. It is one of the biggest cities in Turkey and offers the best amenities.
- Alanya: Alanya, a rapidly developing hotspot, is a city and province on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast. It is around 133 kilometers from Antalya and is one of the fastest-growing ex-pat destinations in the country.
Even in more westernized regions of Turkey, expect a significant cultural shift. However, except in the most tourist-heavy locations, all areas preserve their language and culture, and it’s critical to conduct an extensive study to ensure the site is a suitable fit for you. Starting with the cheap properties in Turkey, extensive research will help you to decide where to buy a property in Turkey.
How are Turkish People?
While the Turkish people are renowned for their friendliness, there are many other reasons to fall in love with them. From their incredible culinary abilities to their emphasis on friendship and family, Turkish people have truly charming characteristics.
Apart from their incredible culinary skills, the Turkish people are gifted with various talents, ranging from traditional artisans to fashion designers, famous actors to singers, sports to film directors, and authors to philosophers.
Family is important in Turkey and Turkish people constantly prioritize their families and ensure that they are respected and cared for. As a result, many Turkish individuals choose to remain with their parents until they marry and have children.
Turkish people are incredibly proud to be Turkish and are eager to share their history and culture with visitors. They will always be keen to share anecdotes about their cities or towns while showing you around.
Are Turkish People Friendly?
Yes, Turkish people are very friendly. No doubt, they are kind, generous, lovely, and easy to communicate with.
How to Find Friends in Turkey?
Turkey is a sprawling country and unlike smaller countries, there are no designated “ex-pat areas” where all foreigners congregate. That is why it is more convenient to find friends online.
Another excellent approach to meeting new people is attending seminars and workshops or enrolling in Turkish language classes. Not only will you meet other foreigners who have previously gone through the adaptation process or are currently doing it, but also you will meet English-speaking locals.
Religion in Turkey
According to the state, Islam is the dominant religion in Turkey, with 99.8% of the population initially classified as Muslim. However, Turkey has been home to all three religions, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
Turkey’s history is mainly defined by Islamic people, history, architecture, arts, and literature. Istanbul is also the ancient city of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, with several Orthodox Christian churches still in operation. The Roman Catholic church, like minor Protestant organizations, has churches and activities.
The Assyrian Orthodox Church, led by a patriarch based in Damascus, Syria, maintains several operational churches and monasteries in southeastern Turkey, near Mardin.
Is There Freedom of Religion in Turkey?
The 1982 constitution established the country as a secular state and guaranteed religious freedom and private transmission of religious beliefs.
How are the Health Services in Turkey?
In Turkey, healthcare is a combination of governmental and private services. In 2003, Turkey implemented universal health care.
Turkey has developed into an important medical and healthcare region in Europe, rivaling the United States. It provides affordable health care and high-quality facilities, procedures, and technology, making it an excellent location for receiving top-notch health care.
The Turkish government finances healthcare through taxes and it covers everything mentioned above. If you are a resident with a job, your employer may even cover the cost of your insurance.