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Turkey is a delightful melting pot of cultures, which is one of the many reasons why tourists choose to visit the country. Providing a unique blend of ancient ruins and historical spots that boast of architectural brilliance, Turkey manages to win you over with its endless beauty. However, if you’re traveling to Turkey for the first time, then there are a couple of things you should know about so as to make your trip even better. With the help of our Turkey tour packages and Turkey travel guides, you can rest assured that you will have the most fabulous vacation ever while also honoring the traditions of the country.
Listed below are some of the tips to remember when you’re traveling to Turkey for the first time using our Turkey trip packages:
Knowing at least the basics of the language of the place you’re traveling to is useful for every trip, and the same goes for when you travel to Turkey. Being aware of the most common Turkish words and phrases will help you tremendously, especially because most of the people in Turkey do not speak English, including several areas in the bigger cities. For instance, if you receive an invitation to visit someone’s home for Turkish tea or a Turkish meal, learn a couple of words so that you can thank them well for their hospitality. Memorizing the crucial gestures is essential as well in certain situations. If you’re too full from a meal and would like to politely decline from having another helping, just place your hand on your heart and it will be taken as a no. When you’re out shopping and you want to say no to buying something, tilt your head up and back and use your tongue to make a ‘tsk’ sound.
Turkey is a Muslim country and respecting the religious beliefs entails dressing appropriately when you decide to visit the place through our Turkey travel packages. It’s best to keep an assortment of clothes in your luggage, because while some of the cities embrace western fashion, others are more conservative and will make you want to reach for a scarf or jacket. The moment you reach a city, you will be able to sense its vibe and notice the clothes put on by the locals and tourists alike, after which you can decide your attire accordingly. Make sure to cover your head using a scarf whenever you step inside a mosque.
Although most of the hotels, restaurants, and museums in Turkey have Western-style toilets, you will encounter Turkish-style toilets in many places, which means that you will have to squat. Remember to keep some tissues and hand sanitizer in your bag when you visit these toilets. Many of these toilets charge a small fee to use them; therefore, always carry loose change around as well.
Whether you’re traveling to Turkey alone, with your family, or with your partner, ensure to carry your debit card, credit card, and also cash. This is because you never know when a certain establishment doesn’t accept electronic modes of payment. Your cards could also not work for some reason or another, and since this bit is unpredictable, carrying cash is always the wiser plan. Providing good service to customers is almost a tradition in Turkey, which is why tipping your server is a kind gesture, regardless of whether you’re dining at a fancy restaurant or a local eatery. The same is the case when you’re paying taxi drivers in Turkey, especially those who help you with the luggage.
While ordering at a restaurant, always check the menu so you’re aware of the prices and don’t feel shocked when the bill arrives. Bargaining works when it comes to shopping in Turkey. Ask for the price they’re quoting and then go ahead and suggest a discounted rate. If nothing else works, tell the shopkeeper that you have to leave soon, and you might just end up getting a better bargain.
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