Visit Turkey: 6 Tips Before Traveling to Turkey

Currently, I am writing this from the center of the world - literally, where the Bosphorus River crosses Asia and Europe in the stunning city of Istanbul, Turkey. And precisely, there is no place in the world that merges East and West with ease.

From the great streets of the world and the cobblestone streets to the cafe early in the morning to pray to the politics and complex country relations with its neighbors, there is absolutely no other travel experience like Turkey. I have many places in the world, but I have never been so touched by the political and social landscape of a country.

If you go there too (and I highly recommend you do it), here are some important steps to do the best on your journey.

1. Get to know the Little Turk

Outside the big cities, not many people speak English in Turkey. But the good news is, Turkish is not hard to learn - the letters are similar to the Roman alphabet and words are said to be spelled.

And the little Turks will keep you away from here. When I went to buy shampoo on my first day, I used a few Turkish words and the shop owner invited me to drink Turkish coffee. People are friendly and patient while navigating the words I know, occasionally asking me to teach them English words. This kind of exchange can take a long time, and make travel a bit easier - not to mention much more satisfying.

2. Eat Healthy and Moderate

There are so many delicious meals in Turkey for meat eaters and vegetarians (emphasis on "so much"). The key to surviving in Turkey is to eat just a spoonful of each plate (especially when you eat a meze - a small plate of grape leaves, eggplant, and hummus - as you will have more than one dish to follow).

The first few days we were in Izmir, we spent a lot of Turkish food - of course after courses that would not stop coming, from appetizers to desserts to tea. We were crammed, but also did not want to be rude. A few days of our trip, my friend said, "I'm afraid of food - please do not let them bring the next lesson." Later, we realized that our Turkish friends did their best.

Of course, Turkish specialties vary by region, but remember to measure your appetite and plan ahead so you can enjoy culinary adventures. And remember that street food and small portions like sweet and sweet bread can be bought with one lira and the same as filling five plates!

3. Dress With Style and Full of Respect

Leave the backpacker equipment at home - Turkish ladies dress is very fashionable. There are also various types of clothing: While some women wear headscarves and cover their bodies, others wear short skirts and high heels.

So how should you dress? Heels and professional outfits are generally acceptable, and if you want to blend in, you also have to create your own style. And be sure to buy a scarf or shawl (I prefer Iznik tulips pattern, because it is very useful and you can take it home) if you are in a conservative area, such as countryside, or if you are invited to a mosque, where you have to cover your hair.

4. Out of the City

Istanbul is famous for its cyberspace, Ankara because of its bureaucracy, and Izmir because of the influence and nuances of typical ancient cities in Italy. They are an amazing city, but there are many other areas that we can understand in Turkey as well. Places like Mardin in southeastern Turkey and Hatay, which borders Syria, offer a unique insight into what Turkish people like from everyday perspective. Mardin will offer a glimpse of life in this country, while Haytay offers insight into an era different from things as it used to be in Turkey.

Just as you would make it a point to go out every night in town, make it a point to be out on a weekend to the countryside, just to understand a different and simpler way of living. In Turkey, there is no place more authentic than others - you just feel this positive energy wherever you are. Embrace, and be sure to explore what the entire country offers.

5. Understanding Culture

Turkey is often misunderstood by the West as a moderate Muslim state - but in fact, it has always been a secular country with a Muslim population. That means religion and country apart, and most cities in Turkey are very liberal and give people a choice about how they decide to practice Islam.

Turkish culture remains focused on pride and honor, so it's important to make sure you know how to do yourself in certain situations. These are minor things, such as dealing with direct comments, receiving six dishes from your host, and pitch usually with a blend of European and Asian influences. Also, be careful when talking to you: You need to know the sensitive issues and understand that everyone will have a completely different perspective of culture, life, and government. Observe, follow in the footsteps of others, and see a great blog called "Turkey Muse" that will help you get acquainted with an expatriate in this country.

6. Learn Turkish History

To travel through Turkey without knowing the history will be like driving without a GPS. One of the oldest regions in the world, Turkey has a rich history story, and you have to understand some chapters to greatly appreciate it.

A quick primer to get you started: Seljuks, Mongols, and Ottomans play a major role in shaping the nation's history. After the Ottoman Empire fell into decline in the 1800s, Turkey fought for independence and sovereignty. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk became the founder and first president of Turkey in 1923, an important historical moment in Turkish identity. Ataturk is the reason for many modern aspects of Turkey today, including education, political structure, art, and culture. Also, a total of eight border states of Turkey, and there is an interesting history of Kurdish, Syrian and Jewish society and their unique experience in Turkey.

Today, from a foreign policy perspective, Turkey is one of the most important strategic countries in the world and a gateway to the Middle East. At the same time, it can not be combined with Middle Eastern challenges and should be seen in its unique context.

Turkey is at a constant crossroads, and has a double identity as the world's 15th largest historical and economic empire. This place is really interesting, and whether you are looking for food, history, culture, or style, be sure to go to Turkey at least once in your life. It will definitely be worth the wisdom and learning you get in your journey.