Backpacking in Turkey?

• Turkey is a beautiful and affordable country for backpackers. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the unique rock formations of Cappadocia, there is something for everyone.
• Characteristics: easy to travel, inexpensive away from the attractions, relatively safe, Islamic, delicious culinary delights. 

Traveling in Turkey?

• Turkey is a fascinating destination where Eastern and Western cultures meet, with rich history and diverse landscapes. From vibrant cities and ancient ruins to serene beaches and unique natural wonders - the country combines modern conveniences with traditional charm, making it an ideal place for adventurous and cultural exploration.
• City spotting: Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Antalya, Bursa, Konya. 
• Activity spotting: visit historical sites such as the Hagia Sophia and Ephesus, enjoy a hot air balloon ride over the fairytale landscapes of Cappadocia, relax in the baths of Pamukkale, explore the many bazaars and eat Turkish delicacies, visit a hammam (Turkish bath house) and explore the many natural landscapes. 
• Nature spotting: Limestone terraces of Pamukkale, rock formations of Cappadocia, the Taurus Mountains, the beautiful beaches, Lake Van and the forests and waterfalls of the Bolu region.  
• Animal spotting: including wild ones, sea turtles, birds of prey, dolphins, wild goats and chamois. 

Study in Turkey?

• Education in Turkey: with a good quality of education, Turkey is not a wrong place to study. 
• Language: Turkish with some universities offering English-language programs. 
• Studies: you can choose from a huge number of studies, but education, engineering, finance, international relations, biomedical sciences, architecture and journalism, among others, are popular fields of study. 
• Study cities: Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Antalya.  
• Study Culture: The study culture in Turkey is competitive and achievement-oriented, with a strong emphasis on academic excellence. Students tend to be highly motivated and committed to their studies. Outside of academia, there are numerous student associations and clubs, which organize social and cultural activities. Networking and relationship building are also important within the study culture.
• Language learning: learn Turkish through university language programs, language institutes, online platforms and cultural centers. 

Doing an internship in Turkey?

• Internship opportunities: there are various internship opportunities in a variety of sectors, including IT, tourism, international trade and business, textiles and fashion, education and healthcare. 
• Internship cities: Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Antalya, Bursa. 
• Characteristics: hierarchical, hospitable, sometimes long working hours, diversity and many cultural experiences.   
• Competencies: intercultural communication, strong work ethic, hospitality and customer orientation, networking and relationship management. 

Volunteering in Turkey?

• There are several volunteer opportunities in Turkey. For example, you can help in agriculture, education/child care and refugee counseling. 
• Animal/Nature projects: stray animal assistance, sea turtle monitoring, nature restoration.
• Characteristics: both one week to several months possible, and both part-time and full-time. 

Work in Turkey?

• Jobs: for foreigners, you will find jobs mainly in the tourism and hospitality industry, (English language) education, tech and IT, international trade and business, healthcare and work for NGOs.  
• Work culture: hierarchy and respect for managers is very important, as is team spirit. In business, personal relationships and networking play a big role. So building trust is also very important here. It is also useful to take into account flexible working conditions and long working hours. 
• Characteristics: work-life balance differs depending on where you work, innovative, opportunities for professional development, cultural diversity.

Working as a digital nomad in Turkey?

• An off-the-beaten-path digital nomad destination that is slowly becoming more popular because of its low cost, cultural richness and pleasant climate. 
• Favorite locations: Istanbul, Izmir, Antalya, Bodrum. 
• Features: good facilities, plenty of coworking spots in major cities, many accommodation options, affordable, lots to explore and delicious food. 

Living in Turkey?

• The land of shisha, coffee, tea and good food. If you want to enjoy a mix of modern living standards combined with rich cultural traditions and a cozy social life, Turkey is definitely a good option! 
• Quality of life: a good quality of life with relatively low costs, a diverse climate, good infrastructure, hospitable people and lots to experience. 
• Culture: Turkey has a mix of traditional values and modern influences, of East and West and religion and secularity. There are great cultural differences between different parts of the country, yet there is also strong national identity. However, some core values do apply everywhere such as hospitality, generosity, honor, loyalty. Besides hard work, in daily life everything is at a somewhat lower level. Time and attention is given to personal relationships, doing things together and this is often more important than punctuality. Also, Turkish people are incredibly generous, giving to charities and can make you a generous offer.... But beware, sometimes this is out of politeness and you are actually expected to decline. 
• Characteristics: hospitable, multicultural, lots to do, good connections with Europe and Asia in terms of travelability, delicious food, relatively safe, good education. 
• Health care: good health care system with modern medical facilities, especially in private hospitals. Do arrange your own (international) health insurance well.

Stories, tips and experiences from Turkey