Turkey

Introducing Turkey

At the crossroads of East and West, Turkey is a feast for all the senses. Cruise along the Bosphorus past Byzantine churches and gleaming domes of Old Istanbul mosques. Scuba dive through the 2,500-year-old ruins of Myndos or gaze at prehistoric volcanic rock cones. Test your bargaining skills in the bustling bazaars as you sip sweet, rose-scented tea. Then, back at your boutique hotel, relax and revive in a luxury hammam. With a variety of luxury hotels, Turkey offers everything your heart could desire. 

Practical Information

Currency
Turkish lira (in TL5, TL20, TL50, TL100, TL200 notes)

Cuisine
Turkey is famous for its mezze. Pick from patlıcan salatası (aubergine mash), semizotu (purslane weed, usually in yoghurt), mücver (courgette croquettes), dolma (stuffed vegetables) and so much more.

Tipping etiquette
Expect to tip about 10%-15% on top of bills

Transport
Virtually the whole country is well covered by public transport. Be wary when driving; Turkish roads have a bit of a reputation.

When To Go

The pleasantly warm weather throughout spring and autumn is perfect for city sightseeing, or maybe horse riding across to geographical and historical wonders. Then as the heat rises from May to September, enjoy the beaches and turquoise seas of Turkey’s Mediterranean and Aegean coasts. Even during winter, Turkey is still pleasantly warm – when the months from October to early November are called pastırma yazı – or Indian summer.