Things to Remember Before Planning Your First Trip to Turkey
Turkey has been a preferred holiday destination for travelers for quite a while now, and rightfully so. While on the one hand, it has ancient ruins and architectural marvels for tourists to witness, on the other hand, it also has delicious cuisine that satisfies the taste buds. The diverse landscapes and rich history serve as more than enough reasons for individuals to have Turkey on their must-visit list. However, if youโre planning your first trip to Turkey, there are a couple of things you should know about to make your trip even better, especially if you book one of our delightful Turkey tour packages. Luckily for you, we have curated the perfect Turkey travel guide for first-timers. Letโs get into it, shall we? Visit Us!
What to Expect During Your First Turkey Trip
Here are a few things to keep in mind during your first trip to Turkey:
Carrying Cash is Imperative
Although credit cards and debit cards are available at most of the major establishments, such as restaurants and hotels, itโs best to carry cash with you whenever youโre traveling around Turkey. The country has numerous ATMs as well, and hence withdrawing cash isnโt an issue. Tourists should always have cash with them so that itโs easier for them to tip the servers, pay at public bathrooms, and pay cab fares. Independent stores and smaller towns mostly donโt accept online modes of payment.
The Toilets Could Surprise You
Western-style toilets are present in many areas of Turkey, but travelers should also remember that they will encounter squat toilets in the country as well. These may not be what youโre used to, but they are quite common throughout Turkey.
Donโt Drink the Tap Water
While itโs okay to drink tap water in many parts of the world, the same isnโt the case in Turkey. The quality of the tap water found in Turkey varies from one region to another, and itโs best to carry your own bottle of around just to be on the safe side. Although plastic bottles of water are easily available everywhere, you might want to avoid those to be environmentally conscious. Most people in Turkey do use tap water to cook their food and make tea after boiling it thoroughly, but not for direct consumption.
Tea Equates to Hospitality
Hospitality is immensely vital to the people of Turkey, and one of the ways in which they like to show this part of their personality is by serving tea to their guests. Most of the citizens of the country indulge in numerous cups of tea throughout the day, therefore you should be prepared to do the same during your trip as you will surely be offered tea even when youโre out shopping. In case you visit someoneโs home, they will begin by serving you tea, which you should graciously accept as itโs considered impolite if you refuse to consume the drink.
How to Greet People in Turkey
Turkish people are extremely friendly and hospitable. They are some of the warmest people you will ever meet, and this is evident in the way they host their guests and greet the people they know. While shaking someoneโs hand is common if itโs the first time youโre meeting them, the norm is to kiss both cheeks if youโre meeting someone you know.
Donโt Indulge in Public Displays of Affection
Public displays of affection are quite frowned upon in the country, which is something you may not be aware of if this is your first trip to Turkey. Therefore, refrain from indulging in them during your holiday. While holding your partnerโs hand is alright, kissing them or showing affection in other ways isnโt a common occurrence in Turkey.