Although I adore living in Turkey, one part of life here I really struggle with is learning Turkish. Is it strictly necessary? Not always. Many expats get by in Turkey without learning the language, but daily life becomes much smoother when you understand and speak Turkish. Language learners typically pass through three stages: Beginner Intermediate … Read more

Pamukkale in Turkey is one of the country’s most visited attractions and a spectacular natural site. Located in Denizli province and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Pamukkale—nicknamed the “Cotton Castle”—features terraces of white calcium deposits formed by thermal waters cascading down a hillside. On my first visit to Pamukkale and the adjacent ancient city … Read more

My visit to Saklikent Gorge still feels like one of my bigger travel mistakes. Guidebooks I had read described the canyon as a dramatic landscape: walls rising roughly 300 meters and a length of about 18 kilometers, earning it the name that translates to “hidden city.” The gorge’s narrow formation means the sun barely reaches … Read more

If you’re considering visiting Turkey during Ramadan, this guide will answer the most common questions and help you plan your trip. Ramadan is a month of fasting, prayer, community and celebration. For travelers that raises questions like: Should I visit Turkey during Ramadan? What are the dos and don’ts? What stays open? This article summarizes … Read more

Fethiye, on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, is unexpectedly charming despite its popularity with British expats and tourists. There are good reasons thousands visit each year; The Guardian even listed it among the world’s top tourist spots. For travellers seeking great value without sacrificing amenities—especially those considering all-inclusive holidays—Fethiye is an excellent and often spontaneous getaway choice. … Read more

When I first moved to Turkey, everything felt new and occasionally odd in the most fascinating way. Small Turkish quirks shown by my friends and learning everyday routines — from catching the bus to using the local banking system and greeting people — made the experience feel like a fresh start. Exploring culture and tradition … Read more

The Turkish Bath Museum of Beypazarı is a modest, two-story basement building tucked away on a side street in the town center. It preserves and presents the long-standing bathing tradition, offering visitors a glimpse into the daily life of past residents who gathered here for cleansing and socializing. For me, visiting the museum was more … Read more

While western Turkey strives to follow international trends, the same cannot be said for the southeast—and that difference can be a strength. In the bustling city of Gaziantep, certain neighborhoods are dedicated to preserving traditional crafts. One such place is the local coppersmith bazaar, where I watched artisans at work for the first time. Gaziantep … Read more

If you’re reading this, you’re likely planning a trip to Türkiye as a U.S. citizen — welcome! From the historic grandeur of Topkapı Palace to sunrise hot air balloons over Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys and a scenic drive along the Turquoise Coast, Türkiye offers unforgettable experiences. Before you go, there are a few practical details to … Read more

I first encountered Telkari in the southeastern city of Mardin, a place well known for this delicate form of jewelry that attracts both locals and visitors. The designs there differ noticeably from pieces commonly sold along Turkey’s western coast, which are often sourced from the major center of Istanbul. What is Telkari? Telkari is a … Read more