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Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to travel in Turkey?
I think that traveling in a foreign country always contains some kind of risk regardless of the destination. Fortunately, I have never experienced any serious danger while I have been traveling in Turkey. Personally, Turkey is a heaven for travelers. As long as you respect their customs and behave properly, Turkish people love to help foreign tourists. Of course, you must be cautious about the usual things. Also, I would recommend checking the current situation beforehand if you go to the southeastern part of Turkey.
Are all the women in Turkey covered?
No.
Covered women are hardly ever seen in big cities such as Istanbul, Ankara or Izmir, although quite a few women are covered in the countryside. When we say "covered women," we tend to generalize all the women who cover some parts of their body, but actually, there are variety of ways they cover themselves. Some women completely cover their body from head to foot with a long black veil; some wear just a long coat of muted colour; and some just cover their heads with colourful scarves. It seems that the variation depends on family background, character of the locality, and individual personality.
Generally, the degrees in "being covered" reflects the degrees of conservative belief. Yet, one of my Turkish friends said, "Western people tend to easily connect covered women with religion and immediately regard them conservative, but I say the idea is too simple, because wearing headscarves has always been one of our traditions."
Does Turkey has four seasons?
Yes. Some people might think that it's warm throughout the year because Turkey is sort of in the Middle East. It's hot (35 degree Celsius or over) in summer and it's cold (freezing temparature) in winter. Four seasons are definable in Turkey, although the periods of spring and autumn are relatively short.
When is the best time to travel to Turkey?
It depends on where to go or what kind of activity you want to do, but September is the best season in my opinion. The weather is perfect for holiday. Everywhere is less crowded compared with in July or August. Also, both local ordinary people and travel agents seem to relax as the high season is about to end and the atmosphere in town is nice and comfortable. Sometimes you can enjoy the benefits of September, such as special discounts on room rates.
Is alcohol illegal there?
No way!
It's true that Turkey is a Muslim country, but most Turkish men love to drink. Bars and restaurants that provide alcoholic drinks are everywhere in Turkey, and you see many women enjoy drinking as well. Of course, some people never drink because of religious reason. So, it is important to respect the sensibilities of the locals in religiously conservative areas (small towns in Inner Anatolia and Eastern Turkey) especially during Ramazan.
What's the capital of Turkey?
Ankara, not Istanbul.
It's true that Istanbul is the biggest city and the center of commerce and industry but governmental functions are concentrated in Ankara.
What kind of alphabet is used in Turkey?
The Roman Alphabet.
It is quite surprising that so many people believe that Arabic alphabet is still used in Turkey.
Is tap water drinkable in Turkey?
It's better to say "No." The plastic bottled mineral water is being sold everywhere. Yet, I sometimes drink water out of the tap and I am still alive :-))
Do they have a custom of tipping?
Traditionally, they didn't used to tip. Perhaps it was taken from the Western countries in modern era. I sometimes leave a tip and sometimes don't. It depends on the place and occasion. In major cities or tourist spots, a bellboy would not leave the room until you offer him a tip, and restaurants would expect you to tip 10-15% on the bill. By contrast, in rural areas, many people are not used to the concept of "receiving a tip." (However, charity donations are appreciated when you visit old mosques and churches.)
If you have been to Turkey once, you probabry know that many Turkish people excercise their hospitality to foreign travellers expecting nothing in return. I think that a good service could be rewarded with a tip but goodwill should be repaid by sincere gratitude and respect for their culture.
Where is the best place you have ever been to in Turkey?
Mardin's old city, Ani Ruins (near Kars) and Ayvalık.
Where is the most disappointing tourist spots in Turkey?
Troy, Manavgat Waterfall and Beypazarı.
Of course, this is my personal opinion.