12 Culture Shocks Tourists Have When in Türkiye!

Summary

This video script reveals 12 surprising aspects of Turkey that astonish visitors, from the well-cared-for stray animals in Istanbul to the ubiquitous tea culture and smoking habits. The diversity in clothing, squat toilets, and regional traditions showcase Turkey's rich tapestry. Unique experiences like crossing between Europe and Asia in Istanbul and the unusual chicken breast dessert add to the intrigue. The script also dispels myths about Turkish deserts and camels, and mentions significant national observances like the 10th of November, offering a glimpse into the country's multifaceted identity.

Takeaways

• 🐾 Istanbul is renowned for its well-cared-for stray cats and dogs, which is a pleasant surprise for many visitors, especially those from countries where street animals may not be as well looked after.
• 🚬 Turkey has a high smoking rate, which can be a culture shock for visitors, particularly in public places like restaurants and cafes where smoking is ubiquitous.
• 🍵 Tea is a staple beverage in Turkey, with a strong cultural association, and is consumed at all times of the day, regardless of the weather.
• 🚽 Squat toilets are common in Turkey, which can be a surprise for visitors from countries that predominantly use Western-style sitting toilets.
• 👗 Turkey's secular nature is reflected in the diverse attire of its women, from modest dress to modern Western fashion, showcasing the country's religious freedom and personal choice.
• 🌍 Turkey's diversity is often underestimated; visitors are surprised to find that traditions, cuisine, and even the physical appearance of people can vary greatly from region to region.
• 🌉 Istanbul's unique geographical position allows for easy travel between Europe and Asia, with no significant cultural or linguistic differences between the two sides of the city.
• 🍰 The existence of a dessert made from chicken breast, known as tavuk göğsü, is a culinary surprise for tourists, as it defies expectations of what a dessert should be.
• 💍 Turkey, and particularly Istanbul, is known for its numerous jewelry and gold shops, reflecting a tradition of gifting gold to newlyweds to help them start their new life together.
• 📅 The 10th of November is a significant day in Turkey, commemorating the death of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, with a nationwide minute of silence observed at 9:05 AM.
• 🏜 Contrary to some perceptions, Turkey does not have a desert climate and is not known for camels, but it does offer a variety of landscapes, including beautiful beaches and green mountains.

Q & A

Why are stray cats and dogs in Istanbul well-fed and well taken care of?

In Istanbul, both shopkeepers and neighbors tend to take care of stray cats and dogs, reflecting a cultural aspect of caring for animals in public spaces.

What is surprising to visitors about the smoking habits in Turkey?

Visitors are often surprised by the high prevalence of smoking in Turkey, with many people smoking in restaurants, cafes, and public spaces.

Why is tea consumption so prevalent in Turkey?

Tea is one of the most consumed beverages in Turkey, especially due to the Black Sea region being a major producer of black tea. Turks drink tea at all times, including after meals and during breakfast.

What type of toilets are common in Turkey, and how do they differ from American toilets?

Turkey has squat toilets, which can be intimidating for first-time users, especially those from the American continent where sitting toilets are more common.

How does the diversity in women's attire in Turkey reflect the country's secular nature?

Turkey's secular nature allows women the freedom to dress modestly or follow the latest fashion trends without being forced into any particular style, reflecting the religious and personal freedom in the country.

What surprises visitors about the diversity of Turkey beyond its famous cities?

Visitors are often surprised to discover the diverse traditions, cuisine, and landscapes in different provinces of Turkey, beyond the well-known regions like Istanbul, the coast, and Cappadocia.

How is the diversity of Turkish people's physical appearances reflected across the country?

The diversity of Turkish people is evident in their varied skin colors, hair colors, and eye colors, challenging the stereotypical image of what a Turkish person looks like.

Why can tourists cross from Europe to Asia within minutes in Istanbul?

Istanbul's unique geographical location straddles both Europe and Asia, allowing tourists to easily cross between the two continents within a short ferry ride.

What is the unique Turkish dessert made with chicken breast?

The unique Turkish dessert is called Tabuk Goğsu or Candu, made with chicken breast but does not taste like chicken, offering a distinct and delicious flavor.

Why are there so many jewelry and gold shops in Istanbul?

Gold is a traditional gift for newlyweds in Turkey, with relatives and friends gifting gold coins or jewelry to help the couple start their new life, leading to a high number of gold and jewelry shops.

What happens in Turkey on the 10th of November, and why?

On the 10th of November, Turkey observes a minute of silence at 9:05 AM to remember Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey, who passed away on this day in 1938.

Why do some people mistakenly believe Turkey has a desert and camels?

Misconceptions about Turkey having a desert and camels may arise from photographs or tourist attractions in Cappadocia, but in reality, Turkey does not have a desert and camels are not native to the country.