10 Fun Turkish Culture Facts to Know Before Visiting
Turkey is a special place. It sits where Europe and Asia meet. This spot has made it a lively land shaped by many empires, faiths, and groups of people. The mix of these two worlds shows in its sights and feels like a blend of both.
Turkey’s past is rich. Its people changed over time, from old beliefs to Christianity, then to Islam. Many battles happened there, leaving behind stories and places full of meaning. With its great views, strong people, and tasty food, Turkey stands as a favorite spot for travelers.
Want to learn more about Turkey’s rich culture? Here, we’ll share fun facts about Turkey that may surprise and excite you.
- Top 10 Turkish Culture Facts for Travelers
- 1. Time perception in Turkey
- 2. Cleanliness is a must-have
- 3. Turkish tea is life
- 4. Yogurt is a part of the meal
- 5. The Evil Eye
- 6. About 31% of people smoke cigarettes in Turkey
- 7. Not understanding the Turkish language is not a problem
- 8. Alcohol is permitted in Turkey
- 9. Turkish people leave shoes before entering the apartment
- 10. No lockers in stores
- Turkish Cultural Facts for Travelers: FAQs
- Conclusion
Top 10 Turkish Culture Facts for Travelers
If you've never considered visiting Turkey, we're confident that after reading about all it has to offer, you will put it on your bucket list. Turkey is every traveler's ideal destination because of the magnificent remains of former empires, the rich Turkish language and culture, the calm rivers, and the towering mountains. Here are Facts About Turkish People that you probably did not know.
1. Time perception in Turkey
With the exception of Istanbul, where life is as hectic as it is in major cities throughout the world, if you are used to the bustle of Asian and European metropolitan areas, you will find Turkey culture to be more relaxed. Turkish people work slowly.
If someone in Turkey tells you that he is on his way, don't expect that he will arrive on time. That means the person is on his way but he can stop for lunch or tea and can complete other tasks on the way.
Don't think that everyone who avoids you is doing so on purpose. It's ingrained in their culture. As a result, you should respect their Turkish culture and norms and refrain from offending them.
Turkish people work slowly
2. Cleanliness is a must-have
Second, fun facts about Turkish life. People in Turkey care a lot about being clean. This ties to their faith, Islam. They keep their homes neat and tidy. You see this love for clean things in all parts of life—bathrooms, clothes, and meals. Islam sees being clean as pure and holy.
In Turkey, hotels and Airbnb places are spotless. Parks, beaches, roads, and schools stay clean too. If you want to taste Turkish street food in Istanbul, you can enjoy it without fear of dirt or germs.
3. Turkish tea is life
In Turkey, the main drink is not what you might think. It's tea. The people there love tea and see it as a key part of life. They drink it all day long. If someone gives you tea in Turkey, it's more than just a drink. It's a way to share their culture. Take it and enjoy the moment.
Even if you don’t like tea much, you might still drink a few cups. Tea is easy to find in Turkey. Sellers offer tea in parks or by the sea, often in paper cups.
Tea is a national drink in Turkey
4. Yogurt is a part of the meal
People eat yogurt for all three meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Yogurt helps them quench their thirst and keep cool in the sweltering heat.
Turkish yogurt is distinct from the yogurt we consume on a daily basis. Referred to as Aryan, Turkish yogurt takes on a distinct form by blending yogurt with salt and water. Alongside this, another variation of yogurt stands out for its opulent creaminess and richness.
5. The Evil Eye
When you arrive in Turkey, an evil eye bead will be the first thing you see. It has been a cultural icon for 5000 years. It is often used in the country, particularly by those who have recently purchased a new vehicle or home or on the arrival of a baby.
This symbol is used to drive away the malignant energy that jealous people emit. Turkish folks make necklaces, bracelets, and other jewelry items with this evil eye.
Evil eyes can be found in jewelry stores, but you can also discover signs of good omens in Turkish people's homes, workplaces, and retail establishments. This symbol plays a significant role in the culture of Turkey.
When you arrive in Turkey, an evil eye bead will be the first thing you see
6. About 31% of people smoke cigarettes in Turkey
Comparatively, 12.5% of Americans currently smoke cigarettes. That's two and a half times LESS than Turkish smokers! If you couldn’t tell already, Turkish adults and, regrettably, Turkish children smoke a lot of cigarettes. In Turkey, between the ages of 13 and 15, about 5.3% of teens smoke.
Cigarette butts are (sadly) frequently littered, so don't be shocked to find a lot of them on the streets, especially if there isn't a trash can nearby.
Smoking cigarettes is permissible in open-air settings, encompassing outdoor sections of cafes and restaurants. Thus, if you're sensitive to secondhand smoke, it's wise to be mindful of your seating choices.
7. Not understanding the Turkish language is not a problem
One Turkey interesting facts, even if you don't know any Turkish words and Turkish people don't know the language you speak, it doesn't matter to them.
Whether or not you understand, he or she will continue to use gestures to communicate with you. The elderly and residents of the village experience this issue.
Nonetheless, it can occur everywhere throughout the nation. As a result, you shouldn't mind if someone in Turkey still tries to speak to you despite learning that you don't speak the language.
In Turkey country culture, language is not a barrier to communication. They place more emphasis on gestures and emotions.
Not understanding the Turkish language is not a problem
8. Alcohol is permitted in Turkey
In Turkish culture and traditions, you'll be shocked to learn that the only Muslim nation with legalized alcohol consumption is Turkey. Alcohol is not prohibited, but it is also highly expensive. You will spend more on buying and drinking booze with pals than on three meals a day.
Efes is the least expensive local beer; it costs two pounds in grocery stores and three to four pounds in bars. The cost of these alcoholic beverages is likewise high in the nation's major cities.
9. Turkish people leave shoes before entering the apartment
Things to know about Turkey culture in certain European nations, people remove their shoes while entering the house. The shoes are placed next to the door or in closets. Nonetheless, it is usual in Turkey to remove shoes before entering the home.
Turkish individuals adopt the perspective that it's unnecessary to bring outdoor grime into their living spaces, which is why they leave their shoes outside. If there's ample room outdoors and on the stairways, then there's a rationale for not introducing shoes indoors and thus preventing the house from becoming soiled.
10. No lockers in stores
Upon entering stores in Turkey, an unexpected observation awaits the absence of storage containers or lockers. This applies not only to grocery stores but also extends to a variety of other retail establishments, with the exception of IKEA.
Hence, if you were hoping to leave a bag or backpack at the door before going shopping, this is regrettably not an option in Turkey. It's typical for folks to bring their bags with them when they go shopping. As a result, it's wise to constantly travel light and avoid carrying a lot of luggage. Nobody will mention it, though, even if you carry a sizable luggage or a dozen additional bags of goods.
This practice is deeply ingrained in Turkey culture and traditions and reflects a number of different values, including a sense of personal responsibility and the idea that customers should take care of their own belongings.
No lockers in store
Turkish Cultural Facts for Travelers: FAQs
What are some unique cultural experiences in Turkey?
- Attend a whirling dervish ceremony for a spiritual and cultural experience.
- Visit a Turkish bath (hamam) for a traditional bathing ritual.
- Explore local bazaars like the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul for shopping and cultural immersion.
Is tipping expected in Turkey?
Yes, tipping is customary. In restaurants, a 10% tip is standard. For hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.
What are bad facts about Turkey?
Booze can cost a lot, so many people can’t buy it often. Talking can be hard too, mainly with older folks who don’t know English. These things can make the trip less fun for some.
What are cool facts about Turkey?
Turkey is a land full of old wonders. It has spots like Troy, Ephesus, and the strange, dreamy lands of Cappadocia and Mount Ararat. It gave the world tulips and has deep roots in culture, like the old Hittite writing and calm Turkish baths. The rare whistle talk in Kuskoy and the endless flames of Mount Chimaera make it even more special.
Why 31 is funny in turkey?
The number 31 is considered funny in Turkey because it sounds similar to the word "laklak" in Turkish, which refers to someone who talks a lot or is chatty. The similarity in pronunciation makes the number amusing to Turkish speakers. Additionally, it can also evoke playful associations due to its phonetic resemblance to the word for "talk" or "gossip," adding a humorous layer to everyday conversations.
How do I greet people in Turkey?
A handshake is common, but close friends and family may greet each other with a kiss on both cheeks. Use formal titles like "Bey" (Mr.) or "Hanım" (Ms.) unless invited to use first names.
Conclusion
Now that you know these fun facts, you might want to visit Turkey even more. These tips will help you talk to locals and make your trip smooth.
If you're ready for this trip, don't forget to get a Turkey eVisa from Turkey Immigration Services to make it easy. With these tips, you're set to enjoy every part of your visit with no problems.
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