Language
The main language spoken in Turkey is Turkish.
With twenty-nine letters in the Turkish alphabet, the letters Q, W and X being omitted, two versions of the letters S, C, U, O, I and G and three different variations of A, the language may seem complex and very different. However, if you master a few essentials and a smattering of words your efforts will be appreciated. It is well worth the time and trouble to bring pleasure and certainly a few smiles to friendly Turkish faces. So practice some phrases and you're bound to impress!
One of the hardest, yet most important everyday words is 'Tesekkür ederim', pronounced tesh e kur e derim & thank you.
Here are a few more:
| English | Turkish | Pronounced |
| Hello | Merhaba | |
| Please | Lütfen | Lootfen |
| Good Morning | Gunaydin | Goo nay din |
| Yes | Evet | |
| No | Hayir | |
| No thanks | Yok saÄŸol |
Getting about
The 'dolmus' is the best form of transport for travelling around the local area. Dolmus in Turkish literally means 'stuffed' and before tighter regulations were enforced, these little minibuses were packed to the gunnels, not only with local people but with their livestock too. It was not unusual to find yourself sitting on a seat with three other people, a couple of chickens and a large sack of peppers!
The dolmus system operates as a hail and ride service running along set routes, picking up and dropping off people on request. The local bus conductor has been replaced by the passing of your fare to the driver, via the other passengers, and your change returning in much the same way.
To stop a dolmus, simply hold out your hand as you would to stop a taxi, and jump on. When you reach your destination shout out 'inecek var', literally meaning 'there is a getting out' and the driver will stop for you.
There is a dolmus service operating in most of our regions, please ask your Tapestry host for local service information.
General Etiquette
Mosques & As a place of religious importance, dress rules must be respectfully adhered to by all those entering a mosque. For women, bare arms, legs and heads are not acceptable inside a mosque. Men should avoid wearing shorts and heads must be covered with a scarf. Before entering a mosque, shoes must be removed. Avoid visiting mosques at prayer time, on Fridays (Muslim Holy Day) and at times of religious festivals.
Beach & Topless sunbathing can offend the traditionally minded and to be naked is illegal.
Dress & Turkey is a fairly modern country and the wearing of shorts and T-shirts around towns and cities is quite acceptable. In more remote villages and places of worship, it is advisable to wear something a little more formal, such as skirt or trousers with a blouse or T-shirt. It would be considered offensive to go shopping in bikinis or swimming trunks.
Tipping
In restaurants service is generally 10% of the meal cost. Some restaurants will include a service charge in the bill (added on at the bottom). It is optional to add further if you wish.
While travelling on coach trips and jaunts no official tipping is expected. Having said that, although optional, it is always appreciated if you tip the driver.
