What are the BASIC FACTS relating to Turkey?
| Official Name: | Republic of Turkey |
| Capital: | Ankara (not Istanbul) |
| Population: | 65 million |
| Total Area: | 779,450 sq. km |
| Official Language: | Turkish |
| Minorities: | Kurdish, Arabic and Greek |
| Religions: | Muslim 98%, other 2% |
| Government: | Multiparty democracy with Westminster system |
Why visit Turkey?
The reasons are manyfold. Turkey is a land surrounded by seas on three sides. It is covered by mountains, forests, steppes and all kinds of land formations ranging from snow covered volcanic peaks to marshes teaming with wildlife, all of which is of superb beauty. The genuine friendliness and traditional hospitality of the Turkish people towards visitors is justly renowned worldwide.
And then of course, the history of the land is incredibly rich and long. This is the land where the oldest "city" of the world was founded and this is the land that has been home to a great number of civilisations. These included the Hittites, the Greeks, the Romans, the Byzantines, the Seljuks and, of course, the Ottomans. These civilisations left behind a multitude of historical and archaeological treasures. Anatolia, which is the landmass of Turkey, is in fact called the cradle of civilisation, harbouring in its bosom an incredible blend of cultures, history, and archaeological sites.
Back to topIs it safe to visit Turkey?
In recent times, there has been much said and written about the troubles in Iraq, Afghanistan and the Middle East generally. There have been a number of terrorist attacks in many countries, including unfortunately in Turkey. Naturally, people find such attacks unsettling. It is worth reiterating that Turkey is not involved directly in the disputes involving these countries, and as such it is not a direct target by any group. As well, the Turkish Government is proactive in identifying possible risks and preventing attacks before they occur.
The DFAT (the Department of Trade and Foreign Affairs) Travel Advice on Turkey advises Australians to exercise caution, including in commercial and public areas and at public gatherings. We agree with this advice and add that there is a slight risk of being involved in some kind of terrorist activity in most countries of the world, including Australia. However, this risk is very small. In most countries of the world, including Turkey and Australia, the risk of being involved in a serious traffic accident is far greater than being involved in a terrorist activity. Like we do not stop driving our cars because there is a chance we might get hurt, we should not stop travelling because we might be involved in some terrorist activity.
As for general crime, most overseas visitors will be safer in Turkey than in their home country. The crime rate in Istanbul (about 12 million inhabitants) is lower than in most western capitals. And in non-tourist regions of Turkey it is virtually non-existent. The risk that Turks will harm you or steal something from you is very small. Nevertheless, it is always advisable to take basic precautions, like not carrying too much cash, placing valuables in hotel safes, not wondering into dark, deserted side streets alone.
Back to topWhy go with Ozturk Tours?
The tour organiser and leader is Turkish born Hamit Ozturk. Hamit who speaks both English and Turkish fluently, has travelled extensively in Turkey in recent years. He has personally designed the Ozturk Boutique Tours, placing particular emphasis on individuality, originality, flexibility and the particular needs of Australian travellers. Travellers on Hamit's tour will have a constant companion who knows the country, the people and their customs, the best attractions, the hotels with charm and character and the most authentic restaurants.
Back to topDo I need a visa to visit Turkey?
Many nationalities do not require a visa to enter the country. However, Australia, UK, USA, Canada and New Zealand passport holders must obtain a visa to enter the country. This visa is obtained on arrival in Turkey. The cost for Australian passport holders is US$20.00. (It is about US$50 for USA and Canada passport holders). Passengers should go to the visa counter at Immigration Control before proceeding to the passport control desk.
Back to topWhat is the best way to call Australia from Turkey?
As most people are aware, making phone calls using overseas hotel phones can be very expensive. There are several ways to call home economically. These include prearranged call cards such as Telstra's Telecard, phone cards purchased on arrival, VoIP based calls if you have a laptop or iPad, etc. The prearranged Telecards enable you to call home at normal rates applying at home. The charges are debited to your nominated phone account. You should pre-arrange international roaming if you wish to use your mobile overseas or if you wish people to contact you on your mobile. Buying a local SIM card is not recommended as your hand unless you register your handset with the autorities .
Back to topWhat is the climate like?
The climate in Turkey varies greatly according to the region and the time of year. On the Mediterranean & Aegean Coasts, the climate is pleasant for most of the year. Summer highs are around 35 degrees and winter temperatures rarely drop below 8 degrees. In Central and South Eastern Anatolia, summer starts early and is pleasantly mild before building to a hot and dry peak in July and August when temperatures can reach 40 degrees Celsius. Mid-winter is cold with a lot of snow and temperatures as low as minus 17 degrees. The Black Sea coast is generally mild, but wet. There is an annual rainfall of 225 cm. The summer is quite short and only really lasts from June to September. Even during these months there can be heavy rain.
Back to topWhat should I bring?
Turkey has a diverse range of climates. The coast is generally mild in winter and hot in summer. The interior is warm in summer and cold in winter so you will need to bring clothes according to the season. In the regions that Ozturk Boutique Tours go, the temperature range is a comfortable 20 to 30 degrees C in May and September. So, casual spring/summer clothing is all that is required. It is advisable to pack a jumper or warm coat just in case. Also sturdy walking shoes and sun hat are a must. A sun umbrella can be useful if strong sun bothers you. You should also bring sun cream and other personal toiletry items.
Turks are generally informal in their choice of clothing and so there is little need to bring formal wear. You need to be aware that Turkey, although in many respects a modern country, is still conservative and the values of Islam are widely respected. Very informal or revealing clothing can be seen as disrespectful, especially in small towns and when visiting mosques.
Back to topWhat is the voltage?
Turkey uses a 220volt electricity, 50cycles, 2pin European plug system, so you will need to bring an adapter if your electricity system is different.
Back to topWhat is the currency of Turkey and how much is it worth?
Turkey's monetary unit is Turkish Lira (abbreviated to TL). The approximate exchange rates for the TL (as of 25
August 2010) are as follows.
1 Australian Dollar = 1.35 TL
1 US Dollar = 1.50 TL
1 Euro = 1.95 TL
1 Pound Sterling = 2.35 TL
There is no restriction on the amount of foreign currency that a visitor may bring into Turkey. However, sums of US$10,000 or more should be declared on arrival.
Back to topHow much money should I take and in what form?
Except for a few meals, Ozturk Tours are all-inclusive. However, tour participants should allow at least AU$25 per person per day for drinks, incidental expenses and expenses of a personal nature. Naturally, this amount will be higher if you intend to purchase expensive gifts, participate in optional excursions, have wine with meals, etc.
Suggested methods of taking money are:
1. Australian Dollars, which can be exchanged with relative ease. Amount should be limited to $1000 per person for security reasons.
2. ATM withdrawals from your Australian account You can withdraw the equivalent of $500 or more per day. This is a safe and convenient way of accessing your money. A fee about $5.00 is charged per withdrawal, depending on the your financial institution.
3. Credit card (should be used for major purchases only)
4. Travellers cheques are not recommended as it is difficult to exchange them in small centers and commission is charged at both ends.
There is no restriction on the amount of foreign currency that a visitor may bring into Turkey. However, large sums (i.e. US$10,000 or more) should be declared on arrival.
Back to topWhere can I change money?
Usual outlets for changing money are Change Offices, Banks and Post Offices These can be found in all large and most small towns. The speed of service is much faster at a Change Offices, and the rate of exchange usually better. If you do change money at a bank, be patient, service can be slow. It is often possible to change money (or travellers cheques) at hotels, although exchange rate is not as good as those at other outlets.
Back to topHow do I get around in cities and within the country?
Taxis are the most effective method of local transport, and recommended for all journeys within a city. In Turkey, taxis are metered and rates are quite reasonable. Sharing a taxi with other group members can be quite a bargain. You should be aware that taxis and "AIRBUS" are the usual forms of transport to and from the Airport. Taxis do have meters. Make sure your driver uses his. Nighttime fares between midnight and 6am are around 50% more than the daytime.
There is also a Tram/Metro combination from the Old City to the airport. At about AUS$3.00, this is very good value and convenient especially if you do not have much luggage. Take the Tram to Zeytinburne (last stop on the line) and change to Metro which then takes you all the way to the airport.
The best way to get around the country is by coaches. All cities and towns have coach terminals known as "Otogar". Comfortable, air-conditioned coaches operate between all major (provincial) centers. Minibuses connect major centers with small towns and also run between small towns and villages. Fares for both large coaches and minibuses are very reasonable.
Turkish Airlines fly from Istanbul and Ankara to all tourist centers as well as to most major cities around the country.
Back to topWhat kind of food can I expect and where do you suggest I eat?
The Turks, quite rightly, are very proud of their cuisine. If you have never eaten Turkish food before, you will probably be pleasantly surprised with the meals throughout your stay. Turkish food relies on meat as its main ingredient. Vegetarians however are also catered for. Turkish restaurants fall into two basic categories; restoran and lokanta. Most "restorans" offer a sort of A La Carte menu, with foods on display that will be cooked to order. "Lokantas" on the other hand, have a selection of prepared dishes kept hot ready to serve. Lokantas are usually cheaper than restorans, and you will be able to eat your fill for a very reasonable price.
Here's an idea of some of the more commonly found dishes. Snacks are easy to come by in the form of tost - a toasted sandwich usually filled with melted cheese, processed meat or tomato, and doner kebab, which is well known in the West. Those wanting a full meal will probably begin with a meze, a selection of cold or hot hor d'oevres. You will find a variety of dips, pickled vegetables, yoghurts and salads as well as borek - deep fried pasty filled with cheese or minced meat. Soups known as corba (pronounced 'chorba') are very tasty. The best two are mercimek (lentil), found almost everywhere, and yayla (yoghurt soup flavoured with mint). Your main meal will usually be centred around a meat dish. In most cases some form of kebab or kofte. This will usually be made from lamb, but can be chicken or sometimes beef. Never pork! In western and central Turkey there is a wide selection of meats available; lamb cutlets, beefsteaks, chickens, while in the coastal regions you should try at least one fish dish. Main meals will be served with a small salad and either rice, chips or pasta. Other vegetables can be ordered and are often prepared in a sauce. Kuru Fasuliye is a delicious dish of white beans in a tomato sauce, whilst Taze Fasuliye is green beans in a stock-sauce. All meals are accompanied by one of two delicious types of bread - the unleavened variety know as Pide (pee-day) bread, or a European type which is rather light and crusty on the outside (similar to the French baguette). Another popular dish found throughout Turkey is Pide. This is basically a type of pizza, in which pide bread (described above) is covered with toppings of your choice; typically cheese, tomato, minced meat, egg, salami, etc. Those who can't make up their mind can order "karasik" (ka-ra-shik) or mixed pide, which is everything! If you have the chance, try gozleme - this is real "village food". Gozleme can best be described as a crepe filled with cheese, and sometimes vegetables such as potato or spinach.
Traditional Turkish deserts like baklava, kadayif or kemel pasa are sweet pastries. Fresh fruit and nuts are always available. Turkey produces watermelons, cherries, peaches, grapes, apples, pears, oranges, figs, hazelnuts, walnuts and pistachio nuts. You may be guided in you choice of fruit by what has just been harvested!
Back to topWhat drinks are available?
There is the usual collection of soft drinks is to be found almost everywhere - coke, lemonade, orangeade - but there are also a few that you might not have come across before. Ayran is a yoghurt based drink, which varies in taste from excellent to so so depending on the place. Most visitors are surprised to find that tea Çay (chai) is the universal drink in Turkey rather than coffee. This is largely due to the fact that coffee is relatively expensive whilst tea has remained cheap - Turkey is a major tea producer. Having said that, those who like their coffee should try the traditional strong brew for which the Turks are famous (Turk Kahve). Despite the fact that 98% of the population are Muslim, alcohol is readily available in Turkey. The local beers Efes and Tuborg are good larger type beers. Raki is the local variant of Ouzo and is equally potent. It is the Turkish drink and has a whole sub-culture attached to it. It should be drunk only after mixing with water, and consumed with meze or watermelon and good conversation. Wines vary considerably from region to region, but the larger producers offer some surprisingly good bottles - try Cankaya (white), Yakut (Red), or Doluca Antik (white & red available).
Back to topIs local water drinkable?
Although the locals drink tap water with no ill effect, it is best to avoid it when traveling in Turkey. Bottled water, carbonated soft drinks, fruit juices and beers are widely available from shops and snack booths throughout Turkey. At less than AU$1.00 for 1.5 L bottle, drinking water is cheap.
On Ozturk Boutique Tours, drinking water is provided on a complimentary basis.
Back to topWhat is shopping like and what should I buy?
Shopping in Turkey can be great fun; whether haggling for souvenirs in Istanbul's Grand Bazaar or sorting through the food stalls in a local market. Some popular souvenirs are:
Carpets: Produced in some 60 different regions of Turkey, the beauty of the craftsmanship of hand made carpets is amazing and varied. It is generally accepted that the unique double knot makes Turkish carpets the best in the world. You need to exercise a fair amount of care if you intend to buy a carpet. Prices and quality vary considerably. The number of knots per square cm, the materials used, the type of dye, the age of the carpet and of course the size all have a bearing on the price. Be warned, the Turkish carpet industry has attracted some of the countries best salesmen.
Kilims: Described simply, kilims are woven rugs and unlike carpets do not have a pile. Like carpets, Turkish Kilims originate from the nomadic peoples. Traditionally thought of as the poor cousin, Kilims are currently very much in fashion in the west, and some examples can be just as beautiful as carpets and just as expensive.
Leather: Leather goods are inexpensive in Turkey, though the leather is very soft and therefore not as durable as one might hope. Istanbul's covered bazaar and the coastal towns like Kusadasi offer the widest selection of designs and prices.
Clothes: Textiles have always been a major industry in Turkey. Turkey is a major cotton producer and labour is not expensive. There are many imitations of popular brand names on sale, but there are also a number of Turkish fashion houses with growing reputations.
Onyx: Quarried mainly in Cappadocia, an immense variety of onyx ornaments can be found on sale throughout western Turkey. One of the more popular items is an onyx chess set.
Ceramics: The ceramics industry is dominated by plates made in similar styles to those popular throughout the Ottoman Empire. With more than its fair share of potters, Avanos in Cappadocia is generally considered to offer the widest selection to the buyer.
Back to topWhat is the religion in Turkey?
About 98% of the population are Moslem. However, only about 20% are practicing Moslems. Those who have already been to Turkey know that Turkey is a singular and unique country, totally different from all other Islamic countries of the world. It is a modern, democratic and secular country, where everyone can openly belong to any religion of his or her choice. This is guaranteed by the Constitution.
Back to topWhat is the attitude of Turks toward other religions?
Although the great majority of the population are Moslems, there is total respect and tolerance towards other religions, beliefs and cultures. An outstanding example of this tolerance is found in Cappadocia. The Early Christians were constantly persecuted by the dominant forces of their time, such as Romans, Byzantines and Arabs. To escape from their persecutors, they carved out underground cities with incredible effort and pain. However, they were well rewarded for their efforts as they managed to survive for many centuries, hiding in their tunnels and chambers beneath the earth. But when the Turks conquered this land, they granted total religious freedom to everyone. So, there was no more use for these underground cities, and they were deserted, and were soon forgotten. They were rediscovered but only a few decades ago.
Another example is the Jewish communities of Spain, who, expelled by the rulers of Spain in 1492 and persecuted by the Spanish Inquisition were embraced by the Ottoman Empire alone. So they came and settled in this land, and prospered for centuries and lived happily along side the Moslem population.
Back to topWhat is the language and can you give us a few useful words and phrases?
Turkish is the national language of Turkey. In large towns and major tourist centres you will find English speakers among the hotel staff and in many shops. Many Turks also speak German. You will find that you will be able to pronounce most Turkish words by simply saying them as they are written. There are two letters, which have alternative pronunciations: -C generally pronounced as a J (as in jacket). Ç pronounced as "CH" (as in church) S pronounced S, S pronounced as "SH" (as in show)
| English | Turkish | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Merhaba | |
| Goodbye | Allahismarladik (Alah-asmar ladik) | (said by person departing) |
| Goodbye | Güle güle (goo-lay goo-lay) | (said by the person remaining) |
| How are you? | Nasilsiniz (na-sil-sin-iz) | |
| I'm well | Iyi (ee), iyiyim | |
| Good Morning | Günaydin (goon-ai-din) | |
| Good Evening | Iyi aksamlar (ee-ak-sham-lar) | |
| Good Night | Iyi geceler (ee-gej-eler) | |
| Excuse me | Bakarmisiniz | (e.g. to get a waiter's attention) |
| Please | Lütfen (loot-fen) | |
| Thank You | Tesekkür Ederim (te-shekkur eh-derim) | |
| Yes | Evet (ev-et) | |
| No | Hayir (Hai-yer) | |
| Is there? | Var mi? | |
| There is not | Yok | |
| How Much? (price) | Kaç Para? (catch para) | |
| Coffee | Kahve (kah-vey) / Neskahve (instant) | |
| Tea | Çay (chai) | |
| Milk | Süt (suit) | |
| Sugar | Seker (shekair) | |
| The bill | Hesap | |
| I don't understand | Anlamadim |
Numbers
| 1 | Bir | (beer) | 20 | Yirmi | (yeermi) |
| 2 | Iki | (ikki) | 21 | Yirmi bir | . etc |
| 3 | Üc | (ooch) | 30 | Otuz | (otooz) |
| 4 | Dört | (dirt) | 31 | Otuz bir | . etc |
| 5 | Bes | (besh) | 40 | Kirk | |
| 6 | Alti | (alta) | 41 | Kirk bir | . etc |
| 7 | Yedi | 50 | Elli | ||
| 8 | Sekiz | 60 | Altmis | (altmish) | |
| 9 | Dokuz | (dokooz) | 70 | Yetmis | (yetmish) |
| 10 | On | 80 | Seksen | ||
| 11 | On Bir | 90 | Doksan | ||
| 12 | On Iki | . etc | 100 | Yüz | (yooz) |
What is the political system?
Turkey is a democratic, secular republic that was established in 1923 after the collapse of the Ottoman Empire. The founder of Modern Turkey is Ataturk who lead the Turks in the 1919-1922 War of Independence. He went on to reform the education system adopted the Latin alphabet and replaced the Koranic law with European codes.
In 1949 Turkey became a member of the Council of Europe, 1952 it joined NATO and played a vital role in the Cold War. And joined the Customs Union with Europe and has applied for full membership of the European Union. The military is seen as the defender of the Constitution and Secularism in Turkey.
Back to topWhat are women's rights in Turkey?
The new Civil Code, adopted in 1926, abolished polygamy and gave equal rights to women in regard to divorce, custody and inheritance. The entire educational system from primary school to university became coeducational. Atatürk greatly appreciated the support that women gave to the national liberation struggle and praised them for their many contributions He gave women the same opportunities as men, including full political rights. In the mid-1930s, 18 women, among them a villager, were elected to the national parliament. And Turkey had the world's first woman supreme court justice.
Back to topCould you tell me a little about geography?
Turkey is one of only a few countries in the world, which spans more than one continent. 3% of the country' land mass (known as Thrace) lies in Europe while the remaining 97% (known as Anatolia) is in Asia. Turkey is bordered by the Black Sea to the north, the Aegean to the west, and the Mediterranean to the south, and its coastal regions are very fertile. Anatolia is dominated by two mountain ranges - the Pontiac in the north and the Taurus in the south - separated by a high, semi-arid plateau.
Back to topWhat is the main economic activity?
The country generates most of its income from its textile, mining, manufacturing, agricultural, and tourism industries.
Back to topWhat are the main public holidays?
| January 1 | New Year's Day |
| April 23 | Children & Youth Day |
| May 1 | Spring Day |
| May 19 | Victory Day |
| October 29 | Republic Day |
| November 10 | Anniversary of Ataturk's death |
There are also the religious bayrams. These are the three day bayram about mid December at the end of Ramadan (the month of fasting) and the 4 day sacrifice bayram about two month later.
Back to topWhen should I book?
Turkey has become a popular destination in recent years and places fill quickly. So if you are serious about visiting Turkey, we suggest you book as early as you can.
You will love Turkey, its magical sites, mouth-watering cuisine and the world-renowned hospitality.
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