Turkey: A Journey Through Time
Turkey has a strong national identity heavily influenced by Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, founder of the Republic of Turkey. You’ll see his likeness everywhere – grand statues, on money and in pictures. Your familiarity with his name will be very well received by locals.
While Turkey is nominally secular, the vast majority of the population identify as Muslim and Islamic holidays like Ramazan (Ramadan) and Eid are widely observed and recognised with public holidays.
Destinations
Instanbul
Experience the true flavour of Istanbul – a city that is vibrant, enduring, and diverse.
It stands as one of the world’s most spectacular intersections of cultures, cuisine, and continents.
Highlights include:
- Exploring the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, and Grand Bazaar
- Eating with a local family, sharing tea and nargile
- Discovering the hidden treasures of this historically rich landscape
Ankara
Step into the heart of Turkey’s capital—a city where modern sophistication meets deep-rooted history. Ankara offers a refined blend of culture, politics, and timeless charm.
- Visit the awe-inspiring Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk
- Wander through the historic Ankara Castle and soak in panoramic city views
- Explore Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, home to artefacts from ancient Anatolia
- Stroll the vibrant streets of Kaleiçi, where tradition and modern life intertwine
- Enjoy a hearty Anatolian meal with locals, rich in flavour and hospitality
Flavours & Heritage
Food
Home to some of the tastiest produce you can get your hands on, traditional cooking methods and influence from Asia, Europe and the Middle East, Turkey’s food is surprising, delicious and delightful.
Many Turkish favourites are already non-meat. Gozleme, simit and cig kofte are all vegetarian and easy to find in markets, street corner food stands and restaurants. Turkey has an abundance of markets selling fresh produce, bread and extras like hummus and fava bean dip. With a little planning, vegans will be able to assemble meze-style lunches when pre-made options aren’t available.
Culture
Travellers will find Turkish people to be polite and quite formal in their greetings, kind and hospitable as hosts and friendly as new acquaintances.
Frequenting hamams (Turkish bathhouses) and coffee houses are popular pastimes for Turkish people, although contemporary hangouts like bars and nightclubs are the standard entertainment for most young people in the big cities, with Istanbul having one of the world’s hottest nightlife scenes.
