Travel to Turkey to backpack, study, intern, volunteer, work or live as a digital nomad, expat or emigrant?

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Intro: life and experiences in Turkey

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.

Supporting content

Supporting content:
Why study, intern, work, live as an expat digital nomad or as an emigrant in Turkey

Why study, intern, work, live as an expat digital nomad or as an emigrant in Turkey

Why study, intern, volunteer or work temporarily in Turkey?

  • Because it is a cultural bridge between Europe and Asia, Turkey offers a unique opportunity to experience and understand different cultures, traditions and languages.
  • Because the cost of living is lower than in many Western countries, making it an affordable option for students and young professionals.
  • Because Turkish hospitality and friendliness make it easy to quickly feel at home and build a social network.
  • Because the country boasts a rich history and culture, it offers numerous opportunities to learn and explore, from ancient ruins and mosques to modern art and music.
  • Because Turkey has a rapidly growing economy, especially in cities such as Istanbul, Izmir and Ankara, which provides many opportunities for internships and temporary jobs in various sectors such as technology, tourism, commerce and healthcare.
  • Because there are many high-quality universities and educational institutions offering a wide range of fields of study, often with programs in English.
  • Because the country has numerous natural wonders, from beautiful Mediterranean beaches to the unique rock formations of Cappadocia, ideal for adventure and relaxation in your free time.
  • Because the health care is of high quality and accessible, ensuring a safe and comfortable stay.
  • Because volunteering in Turkey gives you the opportunity to make a difference, working with local communities, environmental initiatives or humanitarian projects
  • Because you develop intercultural communication skills, essential in our globalized world.
  • Because you increase adaptability and flexibility, by working in diverse and dynamic environments.
  • Because you strengthen networking skills, by networking and building relationships in an international context.
  • Because you can improve Turkish language skills.
  • Because you will learn what true hospitality is. 
  • Because you can experience how close communities can be and how bonds with your neighbors, friends and others around you can add a lot to your life. 

What should you pay attention to?

  • That you explore local networks and communities to build social connections and maximize professional opportunities.
  • That hierarchy, respect and developing time for relationships is very important in the workplace. 

Why live in Turkey as an expat, emigrant or working nomad?

  • Because Turkey offers an attractive cost of living, which makes it financially feasible to maintain a high standard of living, especially outside the major cities.
  • Because the country has a rich culture and history, which means there is much to see and experience. 
  • Because the climate varies from Mediterranean to temperate, so there is something for everyone!
  • Because Turkey is strategically located between Europe and Asia, making it an interesting base for international travel and business opportunities.
  • Because the hospitable and friendly Turkish people will help you feel at home quickly and integrate into the community.
  • Because modern amenities and good infrastructure are available, from coworking spaces and healthcare to public transportation and recreational activities.
  • Because the country has a growing economy, with emerging markets and opportunities in sectors such as technology, tourism, and start-ups.
  • Because there is plenty of nature and recreational opportunities.
  • Because you can find a good work-life balance, with a combination of professional opportunities and a relaxed lifestyle in many regions of Turkey. 

What should you pay attention to?

  • That you familiarize yourself with the local culture and customs in order to interact respectfully with Turkish people and avoid cultural misunderstandings.
  • That the political landscape has changed in recent years and developments are uncertain. 
  • That earthquakes sometimes occur.

 

WorldSupporter: theme pages for activities abroad
Backpacking and travel your way around the world - Theme
Emigration and moving abroad - Theme
Internships Abroad - Theme
Learning languages and language courses abroad - Theme
Remote working abroad for digital and global nomads - Theme
Study your way around the world - Theme
TEFL: Teaching English as a Foreign Language and learning English - Thems
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Volunteer abroad - Theme
Working Abroad & Working Holidays - WorldSupporter Theme

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