Cultural habbits and customs in Turkey Actions to avoid in Turkey
Refrain from posing in front of statues of Mustafa Kemal, also known as Ataturk (Father Turk), or defacing currency with his picture. He is considered the founding father of modern Turkey and statues of him are everywhere; there are laws against defaming or insulting him.
Refrain from visiting mosques (especially the ones which are not museums) with shorts, short sleeves and mini skirts. It is accustomed to cover your body when you enter the place of God (mosques in Islam).
Greeting people
Handshakes are customary when greeting or being introduced to Turkish men. Some Turkish Muslim women are not usually encountered in business circles, and should not be addressed if you have not been formally introduced. When being introduced, wait to see if a Turkish woman extends her hand.
Always rise to greet elderly people, and in a group, greet them first as a sign of respect.
It is appropriate to address professionals by their titles alone, but a woman professional has the word "Bayan" added to her title. Addressing people without professional titles is complex. Traditionally, a man's first name followed by "Bey" is used, while a woman's first name is followed by "Hanim". This form of address should generally be used with older people. Use of the surname with these suffixes is the modern form of address.
Food
Not to be missed. Turkey has a wonderful culinary history suitable for all palates. There is a large choice of vegetarian dishes as well as an immense variety of meat and fresh fish dishes. The desserts are not for those on diets as sugar is a staple part of some of these dishes. Due to its immense size, Turkey has many climate changes and there are a wonderful variety of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Restaurants
Check the menu prices before sitting down in the restaurant. Why not try a few of the well known dishes before you leave Turkey. KarniYarik (Aubergine filled with ground beef) , Doner and Sish-kebap. Also try restaurants that serves home made dishes. Drink yogurt (national drink Ayran), Traditional Turkish tea and Turkish coffee.
Tipping
Do check your bill to see if the service charge is included or not. 10% is a standard tip. The only time you do not tip is normally to taxi drivers, just make them keep the change that is more than enough.
Shopping
Turkey is a paradise for those that love shopping. Haggling is commonplace especially for leather goods or carpets once you become accustomed to it and it's lots of fun. Only in big shopping centers you do pay the displayed price. Other places you must bargain. Visit Istanbul Grand (Kapali Carsi) Bazaar. There are more than 4000 stores on this big market (old city). Visit Akmerkez shopping center (north side Istanbul in Etiler) one of the best maintained malls throughout Europe.
Public W.C.
A minimal payment is usually required, and you will be dissapointed when you see the a la Turka closets, however for public WC unfortunately there is not much alternative. It is recommended not to use public toilets since most of them do not comply the hygenic standards.
Star Ratings of Hotels in Turkey
5 Star - Luxury: These hotel offers the best money can buy, with the highest levels of quality and amenities.
4 Star - Superior: These hotels offer premium level service and amenities.
S Class - Special: These are mostly old mansions renovated and converted to hotels. The service quality and rates varies.
3 Star - Quality: These hotels are among the finest in accommodations and services.
2 Star - Economy: These hotels offer a consistent level of quality and some amenities.
1 Star - Budget: These hotels provide comfort with no frills.
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