Turkey Country Bundle: suggestions, stories and tips
Content about Turkey on WorldSupporter
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.
How does healthcare work in Turkey, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?
How does the health care system work in Turkey?
- Turkey has a well-organized health care system. The care is modern, efficient and of the same quality as in, say, the U.S., but the costs are a lot lower.
- Life expectancy is around 78 years. Not bad, in other words!
- The country is particularly known for fields such as cosmetic surgery, dental care and fertility treatments. There is a lot of medical tourism.
- The system consists of public health care and private health care.
- Insurance is mandatory for everyone under the age of 65 living in Turkey. Whether this is public or private insurance.
- In fact, Turkey also has a public insurance system, Genel Sağlık Sigortası (GSS). You pay for healthcare through the Sosyal Güvenlik Kurumu (SGK).
- Emigrants can join this universal healthcare system only after one year of living in Turkey. For the first year, you are required to purchase your own international health insurance.
- Eventually, many people who have moved to Turkey choose to keep their own private insurance because the costs are often not that bad, the care is better and you are also insured for other things such as repatriation.
- In Turkey, you can also go to the pharmacy for a consultation. Here you can get medication right away, or you are referred to a specialist.
How does the public health care system work in Turkey?
- The public healthcare system (SGK) covers much of the cost of public health care.
- The quality of care is generally good, but you can expect long waiting times.
- Good quality healthcare is generally less accessible in the country side than in the big cities.
How does the private health care system work in Turkey?
- Almost all expats choose private hospitals: waiting times are shorter, there are English-speaking doctors and it is more comfortable than public hospitals.
- The cost of care is also quite reasonable compared to costs in Western Europe, for example. Dentistry, cosmetic surgery, hair transplants, people come to Turkey for everything.
How is the general practitioner arranged in Turkey?
- In Turkey you can visit general practitioners, including Family Health Centers (Aile Sağlığı Merkezleri).
- You can find these through your own embassy, among others, or through the Turkish government's “Family Medicine Information System” (FMIS).
- Be aware that not every doctor speaks English. So call in advance to check this.
How is the dentist arranged in Turkey?
- Turkey is a top destination for dental tourism. So even as an expat, you have many, and good, choices!
- Dental care is generally a lot cheaper than in Western Europe.
- Most people choose private clinics. Surely those are just a little better.
How is the pregnancy, obstetrics and maternity care arranged in Turkey?
- During your pregnancy and birth, you can go to public and private hospitals. The former is obviously cheaper, but the care is also less personal and the language barrier can be big.
- The care is comprehensive, with many checks, tests and personal counseling.
- Home birth is also an option and allowed in Turkey. It can be more difficult to find appropriate care for a home birth, though, because the system is not fully equipped for it.
- Cesarean sections are common, as are medical interventions. Be sure to discuss your needs in advance and ask other expats about their experiences with doctors.
- Fun fact - many private hospitals have hair dressers and photographers in their birthing packages.
- Breastfeeding in public is normal in Turkey, but only if the mother covers up.
How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Turkey?
What should you pay attention to in terms of safely in Turkey?
- Turkey is reasonably safe, but in crowded tourist areas such as the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, watch out for pickpockets.
- Try to stay away from political discussions and demonstrations as these can get out of hand.
- It is not recommended to visit the border areas with Syria.
- There is also a risk of terrorist attacks in Turkey, this happens several times (on a small scale) a year and especially in the south but also in other areas.
- Beware of “drink & food spiking” - that someone puts something in your drink or food.
- There is risk of sexual abuse, especially in the evening, but also for example if you go to toilet facilities alone.
- There are street dogs almost everywhere. These kinds of groups of dogs can be aggressive, never approach them and keep your distance!
- We may not be used to it, but it is illegal to insult the Turkish nation or flag - both online and offline. You could end up in jail in no time.
- Turkey also suffers from natural disasters including floods and earthquakes.
What should you look out for in terms of diseases in Turkey?
- Tap water is technically safe to drink, but can taste like chlorine.
- There are a number of recommended vaccinations. Check with your local vaccination center.
- Rabies is a problem in Turkey. If you are bitten by an animal, go immediately to a hospital/clinic for medical advice.
What should you pay attention to when it comes to traffic in Turkey?
- Many people find driving in Turkey quite a challenge. There are many road accidents, especially at night.
- The roads between major cities are generally good, but in remote areas, on the other hand, they can be very bad.
- Drive carefully, especially at night, and keep in mind checkpoints.
- It is illegal to ride a scooter or moped without a helmet.
- As a pedestrian, you don't always get the right of way! Not even at a crosswalk.
Which work and travel insurance policies are suitable for short and long stays in Turkey?
- Is the trip to Turkey and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.
What emigration and expat insurance can you take out for Turkey if you are going to live there for a while?
- It is mandatory to have your own private international health insurance during your first year in Turkey. Most people keep this insurance after that as well (rather than switching to the public system) because there can always be things you may face as an expat or emigrant that are not covered by public insurance (think repatriation and wider treatment choices, for example). Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.
Turkey: Updates & Travel
Travel in Turkey
- In addition to a very rich history as a result of its bridging function between Europe and the Middle East, Turkey has a Mediterranean coast with endless idyllic but also mass beaches. A great country for both a cultural and beach holiday, but keep a close eye on the travel advice.
- Climb the Nemrut Dağı. At the top of this 2100-metre-high mountain in Eastern Anatolia is a religious complex with enormous stone sculptures. An ancient king is probably buried in the fifty-metre-high burial mound. Stone statues and stone heads lie around the burial mound.
- Cappadocia is mountainous and volcanic and has a rugged landscape due to volcanic eruptions and karst phenomena. Churches were once built in the karst caves.
- Be amazed by the natural phenomenon north of Denizli 'The Castle of Cotton'. Highly calcareous water flows via terraces from a slope. The warm water (35°C) from the source deposits lime components as it cools, forming a thick layer on the terraces. This makes it look like a cotton castle or an ice waterfall, and it makes for a beautiful photo.
- Relax in the thermal baths in Ankara where the Romans used to bathe. They are still there and are a breath of fresh air, especially in the warm summer months.
- Ankara is the capital of Turkey with a small historic city centre that has an oriental feel. There are all kinds of small shops with nice Turkish items.
- Istanbul (formerly Constantinople) is the largest and most special city in Turkey and you can easily spend a week there. The city is seen as the cradle of our civilisation. There is so much to see that you don't know where to start.
- Harran, in the Kurdish part of Anatolia, is one of the oldest inhabited places in the world. On the slopes around the city there are crumbling walls and on top of the hills there are ruins. Some residents live in mud houses and live from agriculture and water that is filtered by the dam of southern Anatolia.
- The capital of the Mediterranean coast is Antalya. In addition to the various pebble beaches and the Roman-Ottoman city center, this place is ideally suited as a base for visiting quieter beach resorts and other historical places. In the summer it can be very busy here, but if you avoid the most touristic areas it is wonderful to stay here.
- In Bodrum they know how to party and the city is therefore also popular with young people. Streets with palm trees surround the bays and villas are close together on the hills. During the day you can enjoy sailing, swimming, diving and snorkeling before Bodrum turns into a partying mass in the evening, where tourists and locals dance together.
- Be prepared that especially in the summer months it can be hot and crowded in many Turkish tourist places. Try to avoid these places especially in July.
- Be aware that the Turkish mentality can be persistent and steadfast. It belongs to Turkey.
Updates Turkey
- More about Turkey, updates and contributions, see the link below.
Turkey: selection of contributions by WorldSupporters - Bundle
Content about Turkey shared by WorldSupporters
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