I first encountered the term “expat syndrome” in 2014, although I couldn’t find any formal recognition of it in psychological literature. The phrase appears to have been popularised by expatriate writers, and its origin is often credited to Tony Crossley, an expat living in Thailand. He described the idea succinctly: Expat Syndrome is a condition … Read more

Kuşadası harbour retains much of the town’s original village character despite Kuşadası’s rise as a popular cruise-ship stop. Many visitors miss this quieter side because it lies a short distance from the main centre. Some visitors prefer the private marina, where luxury yachts berth and high-end restaurants offer fine dining at premium prices. Locals, however, … Read more

Planning a visit to Topkapi Palace in Istanbul? This travel guide covers everything you need to know! Perhaps a historical documentary or a TV series sparked your curiosity about where Ottoman sultans lived, governed, and conducted palace life. Topkapi Palace in Istanbul offers grand courtyards, intricate tilework, private chambers and centuries of history — from … Read more

Kusadasi on Turkey’s Aegean coast is a place I feel neutral about — neither loving nor hating it. It hasn’t thrilled me, but it has rarely disappointed. I once lived in the resort for six months, and I’ve returned many times since. Formerly known as Scala Nova, Kusadasi evolved from a small fishing village into … Read more

I have seen many sights during my time in Turkey, but none matched the experience I had last Sunday. Seven of us hired a driver and traveled to the village of Kizilcayiki to watch a traditional camel wrestling event. As soon as we stepped out of the van it was clear we were the only … Read more

Turkey is well known for its warm hospitality and ability to welcome visitors from around the world. Many travelers praise the friendliness of Turkish people, and the country’s tourism promotion has long highlighted that generous welcome. Beyond the hospitality, Turkey offers a wide range of themed holidays and travel experiences suited to families, friends, and … Read more

If you enjoy cooking or simply love reading about food, these Turkish food blogs are a wonderful place to discover new recipes. They range from simple, everyday dishes to impressive gourmet options perfect for dinner parties. I’m not a confident cook myself, but I often sit down with a cup of coffee and enjoy reading … Read more

Every year around Christmas, millions of parents take part in one of the season’s gentlest deceptions: the story of Santa Claus. It begins in a child’s early years when parents promise gifts from Santa for good behavior and weave tales of the North Pole, a jolly man in a red suit, and busy elves. Some … Read more

Are you planning a day trip to Istanbul’s Asian side and need inspiration? This list highlights more than 15 top places to visit and things to do on Istanbul’s Anatolian shore. As locals who live in one of the neighborhoods below, we’ve explored almost every corner of Istanbul’s Asian side — from lively Kadıköy and … Read more

Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul, occupying a prominent position on the European shore of the Bosphorus, is one of the city’s most impressive and thought-provoking landmarks. Built as the residence for the last six sultans of the Ottoman Empire in the 19th and early 20th centuries, the palace now functions as a museum that illustrates both … Read more