Turkey
From Turkey Travel Guide
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[edit] History
Officially titled the 'Republic of Turkey', its lands includes a history of multiple civilizations, cultures, languages, and religions. The modern democratic republic was formed in 1922, after the fall of the Ottoman Empire and the struggle for freedom among international Western powers. In order to help unify the nation under one identity, population exchanges were enforced, seeing an exodus of ethnic Turks from European and Arab lands into it's newly formed state, populating itself with a new Turkish identity.
Asia Minor, as it was called during Hellenic and Byzantine periods, saw its first Turks migrating into the area in the 11th century. With the Seljuk forces fighting their way westward, the Turkish populations multiplied, taking control of the lands, and establishing the Seljuk Sultanate of Rum, a revised domination of the former Byzantine Empire. In the 13th century, the Ottoman beylik (Turkish armies of the leader Osman), united Asia Minor and created an empire throughout Southeastern Europe, capturing the Byzantine capital of Constantinople. This capture of the capital would now see, for the first time, the nomadic Turkish tribes establish a vast empire with a governmental capital.
The empire would last for roughly 500 years, expanding to most of North Africa, the Middle East, Anatolia, and much of Eastern Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean Sea. However, with the rise of nationalism, brought the empire's ethnic groups to divide the lands into seperate states. Greece was the first state to gain independence, followed by Bulgaria, Armenia, Syria, Lebanon, and several other states. In 1923, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk became known as the founder of the new republic, and its first president. Estabishing a new republic saw the seperation of religion and state, political equalities between men and women, and a modernization of the entire region that headed toward's Western European culture than that of Arabia.
Turkey is founded on the principles of democracy, secularism, while focused on embracing its cultural heritage. It remains closely united with several Western Allies, as well as gaining strong ties with Middle Eastern and Central Asian countries. Today's population includes several minorities, the largest being Kurdish.
[edit]
Turkey is located north of the Eastern Mediterranean Sea, spanning over the Asian territory known as Anatolia. The north-western area includes the tip of the European continent, with the Bosphorus River dividing it from Asia. It is east of Greece and Bulgaria, south of Russia, and west of Armenia, Syria, and Georgia. It borders the Mediterranean, Aegean, and Black Seas.
[edit] Weather
Turkey is a transcontinental, covering both Europe and Asia. Its vast body of land covers a range of climates and temperatures.
The north-west part of Turkey is a typical Aegean climate. Very hot and dry summers, cold and sometimes snowy winters, with mild fall and spring. The climate can be humid, with occasional rain fall in the spring and fall seasons.
The West and South-West part of Turkey, which lays against the Aegean Sea, is normally mild throughout the fall, winter, and spring, with incredibly hot summer seasons. Winters usually see no snowfall on the coastline, however, inland cities of Izmir can see them from time to time.
The Southern Mediterranean Region of Turkey experiences incredibly hot summers, very warm spring-fall seasons, and rather mild winters. There is usually no snowfall reported.
The Eastern and Central parts of Turkey is uniquely different from the rest of the country. It experiences very cold winter months, very cool fall and spring months, and a typical hot summer season. However, the climate is usually very humid, and combined with a very desert-like atmosphere, is not a preferred area of the country.
The North-Eastern part of Turkey lays right under the Black Sea, thus bringing cool winds southward from the large body of water. The landscape consists of forests and mountains, thus being more humid. Winters are cold and snowy, while spring, summer, and fall are rather cool.
[edit] Getting there
[edit] By plane
Several airlines fly to Turkey on a daily, and hourly basis. Major airports are Istanbul's Ataturk Airport, and Izmir's Adnan Menderes Airport.
[edit] By car
Driving to Turkey is an option, if coming from Greece or Bulgaria.
[edit] By bus
Buses are available from Greece; either in Athens or Thessaloniki.
[edit] By boat
Boats are available from Italy and Greece tot he Turkish coastline. The ships usually arrive on the ports of Izmir, Bodrum, Kusadası, and up to the Marmaris Sea area.
[edit] Getting around
[edit] By car
Car rentals are available from all major airports. However, gas in Turkey is some of the most expensive in all of Europe and the Middle East, running a few dollars per liter.
[edit] By public transport
Turkey is runs on public tranport services. Public buses run throughout all towns and cities. Metro services are available in Istanbul, Ankara, and a developing service is now available in Izmir.
[edit] By foot
Many areas in Turkey are walkable, since much of the land is historical.
[edit] By bike
Biking is a great option in the less populated areas, especially beaches and coastline towns.
[edit] See
See all the sites possible no matter which city you go to.
Istanbul
-Byzantine sites including the Haghia Sophia and several churches and museums.
-Ottoman and Islamic historical sites including the Blue Mosque.
-Taksim and Beyoglu: The historically European area of Istanbul is the most vibrant area of the city today. Nighttime outings will promise a very fun experience, with a chance to experience the culture, food, and music of the city.
-Bosphorus River: Take a boat ride from one side of the city to the other. You will be able to say you went to Europe and Asia in the same hour!
Other cities to visit and see are:
Izmir
Cappadoceia
Bodrum
Kusadası
Ankara
Antalya
Alanya
Fethiye
[edit] Do
When visiting Turkey, make sure to travel with an open mind. Try the different foods, talk with people, and walk around. Shopping is great, since the Dollar and Euro are substantially stronger than the Turkish Lira. Take pictures or video of your tour respectfully.
Also try a well recommended Hamam. Known as the Turkish bathhouse, it is a great way to experience Ottoman history. The historic bathhouses in Istanbul offer a scenic view within its walls, as well as a relaxing way to get off your feet from all your traveling.
[edit] Eat
Turkey is typically known for meat-based food, such as kebaps and döner (lamb-pita sandwiches). However, Turkish cuisine consists of much more than simple meat foods.
Vegetarian
Salads: There is a large variety of salads in Turkish cuisine. They can be standard salads, or cold vegetarian dishes which are also deemed as salads. Can be a mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, peppers, olives, lettuce, etc.
Meze: Turkish appetizers, many served cold, are vegetarian based. They can include green beans in olive oil, eggplant dip, olive dip, stuffed grapeleaves, and yogurt dishes. There is also the famouse Imam Bayaldı, which is cooked eggplants in olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes, served cold. The warm meze can be fried or baked cheese-rolls, known as sigara börek, as well as other types of cheese, spinach, or potato-based pies.
Kumpir: A Turkish stuffed baked potato, topped off with cheese, with a choice of vegetables. Meat can be added, but not necessary.
Traditional Dishes
Iskender Kebap: Thin slices of lamb atop cooked bread, served with a layer of yogurt and a buttery cream on top. This is a rather rich dish, and not for those who fear cholesterol problems.
Biber/domates dolması: Stuffed green peppers or tomatoes, filled with rice and spices, usually served with roasted pototoes or rice on the side.
Melemen: An egg-based dish, consists of scrambled eggs within diced up potatoes and tomatoes, and spices. A great light dish to enjoy.
[edit] Drink
There are several traditional Turkish and Anatolian drinks to discover.
Ayran: A popular yogurt drink, usually served with kebaps or döner (lamb) sandwiches. It is a mix of yogurt, water, and salt, served slightly thick. Good to cool off the digestive system when eating meat.
Rakı: The clear, hard alchohol, similar to Greek ouzo. This is usually served with seafood and fish. To dilute, use ice and/or water.
Turkish Tea: Different from the teabag method, Turkish tea consists of boiling water on the bottom of a two-potted kettle. By placing the tea leaves in the top pot, pour a portion of the boiling water from the bottom pot into the top pot. Once it settles, pour a mix of the thick, dark tea from the top kettle with the clear boiling water from the bottle kettle. You will have a perfect cup of tea.
Turkish Coffee: Thick, muddy coffee, similar to Greek and Arabic coffee. Usually served in the afternoon or evening.
Efes: This is the most popular Turkish beer brand all around Turkey. It is a great alternative, as it is flavorful and light.
[edit] Sleep
[edit] Budget
Budgets range from very cheap to luxury expensive. All the major cities and tourist areas have a wealth of options to choose from. Along the coastal areas, pansiyon (pensions) are avialable, and are a great alternative to hotel rooms. They are usually run out of an actual home, with breakfast included in the charges. They are the bed-and-breakfasts of Turkey.
[edit] Upscale
Several hotel chains are available in Turkey. Istanbul, Izmir, and Ankara all feature Sheraton or Hilton Hotels. They are usually a bit more pricey, but feature first-class service.
[edit] Work
Turkey is a hotbed for English teacher positions. Most jobs (for teaching and other professions), are found in Istanbul. Many are also found in Ankara, Izmir, and eastern cities like Diyarbakir.
However, work permits are necessary. If working without a permit, it is left at your own risk whether you are discovered or not. If found, the state has the right to deport you for an indefinite amount of time.
Outside of teaching English, Turkey is known for tourism, and employs foreigners on a need-to-hire basis.
[edit] Learn
Turkey comprises of a mix of ancient sites, diverse lands, wonderful people, and a lush culture inspired by Asian, European, Mediterranean cultures. Before visiting Turkey, take time to research the locations you will be visiting. Several locations, especially Istanbul, involves a multilayered history that involves several visits. The worst thing to do is walk aimlessly, when the shear beauty of Turkey is learning the history of the regiong, while seeing and experiencing its existence today.
[edit] Keep connected
[edit] Internet
In all the major cities and towns in Turkey, internet cafes are found. Most hotels carry free WiFi.
[edit] Phone
The country code for Turkey is +90. Turkish towns and cities have endless phone stores who sell SYM cards for cellphones. Popular Turkish cellphone services are Turkcell and Avea.
[edit] Post
Post offices are avialable all throughout Turkey. However, beware of customs. Whether receiving or sending electronic items in their original packaging, you will be subject to pay a tax, which can be as much as several hundred dollars.
[edit] Safety
Turkey is a very large country, with a population of 70+ million people. The cities are packed with people, and with Istanbul's population booming to over 15 million, it brings the same problems you would find in any other global city.
When in Istanbul, be mindful of your surroundings and belongings. The people are friendly, and can offer guidance if you ask. But, with any place, use common sense. If out late, make sure to always stay with other people. Public transporation is usually safe. But be careful of anyone who offers anything. There have been several reported cases in the past, where foreigners have been lured to bars or clubs, only to be left in situations where they have to pay large sums of money in order to exit.
Cities like Izmir and Ankara are rather safe and clean. The eastern part of Turkey has an increase of religious extremism prompted by old, local traditions. Thus, always be friendly and courteous if visiting, but don't expect the locals to understand a modern world view.
[edit] Stay Healthy
Turkey prides itself on it's cuisine and hospitality. Thus, staying healthy is not that much of a challenge. Usually there are stories of being wary of the fruits and vegetables, but that is complete falsification. Much of the produce is organic or local, and is much more fresh than can be found in the US or Western Europe. Just make sure that whatever you're eating is always washed or clean.
The one thing to be mindful of however is the drinking water; don't drink it. Most households in Turkey, as well as restaurants, all use bottled water. The local tap water is filled with chlorine and different bacteria that may not be suitable for digestive systems outside the region. However, the water is completely fine for bathing, brushing teeth, and the like.
Also, make sure to always wash your hands. Public transporation and busy areas can be a hotbed for germs.
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