Turkey travel guide, including map of Turkey, top Turkey travel experiences, tips for travel in Turkey and what to do in Turkey
Turkey has long been a crossroads, forming a geographical bridge between the East and West; as a result its heritage is rich, from ancient Roman ruins to Ottoman palaces to Byzantine monasteries perched on cliffs to the First World War battlefields of Gallipoli.
Turkey’s terrain is varied too: there’s over 8,000km of coastline, split between the turquoise Mediterranean and the Black Sea, plus multiple mountain ranges (snow-topped Ararat is over 5,000m), undulating steppes and placid lakes.
A diverse land, and the perfect introduction to the East.
Drinking alcohol is accepted in Turkey; public drunkenness isn’t. Dress conservatively away from the beach – though relaxed, Turkey is still a Muslim country. When visiting mosques, shoes should be removed, and shoulders, knees and usually heads (for women) covered. Be prepared to haggle and be firm when walking through bazaars – traders can be persistent.
Beyond meze, Turkish food involves a lot of meat, often in kebab form – the smell of charcoal-grilled beef, lamb and chicken permeates Turkey. Fish is also good – just make sure it is fresh. Other highlights on the Turkish menu include wonderful breads, super-sweet baklava (pistachio and syrup pastry) and salty white cheeses.
Despite being a Muslim country, alcohol is easy to find in Turkey, especially in the touristy coastal regions. Efes is the Turkish beer of choice. Raki, grape spirit, is potent. Turkish coffee is pitch black, very strong and often sweet. Tea is widely drunk and served black.
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