10 Things to Know Before Moving to Turkey

Are you considering a move to the beautiful country of Turkey? This vibrant nation is a melting pot of cultures, offering a unique blend of Eastern and Western traditions. However, before you pack your bags, there are a few things you should know. Here are the top 10 things to consider before moving to Turkey.

1. Understanding the Turkish Culture Turkey is a country rich in history and culture. It's a place where you'll find a unique blend of Eastern and Western traditions. Turkish people are known for their hospitality and friendliness, so don't be surprised if you're invited into a local's home for a cup of tea. However, it's also important to respect their customs and traditions. For example, it's customary to remove your shoes when entering a Turkish home.

2. Learning the Turkish Language While English is widely spoken in major cities like Istanbul and Ankara, it's less common in rural areas. Therefore, learning Turkish can be a huge advantage. Not only will it make your daily life easier, but it will also help you connect with the locals and understand the culture better. There are many language schools and online resources available to help you learn Turkish.

3. The Cost of Living in Turkey Compared to many Western countries, the cost of living in Turkey is relatively low. However, it can vary greatly depending on where you choose to live. Major cities like Istanbul are more expensive, while smaller towns and rural areas are much cheaper. It's important to budget accordingly and consider factors like rent, utilities, groceries, and transportation.

4. Navigating the Turkish Real Estate Market Whether you're looking to rent or buy, navigating the Turkish real estate market can be a challenge. It's recommended to work with a reputable real estate agent who can guide you through the process. Keep in mind that rental contracts are usually in Turkish, so it's a good idea to have them translated before signing.

5. The Turkish Healthcare System Turkey has a universal healthcare system, which means that all residents, including expats and expats, have access to healthcare services. However, the quality of healthcare can vary. While the healthcare in major cities is generally good, it can be less reliable in rural areas. Therefore, it's recommended to have a comprehensive health insurance plan.

6. The Turkish Cuisine Turkish cuisine is a delight for the taste buds. From the famous kebabs and baklava to the less-known but equally delicious dishes like manti (Turkish dumplings) and pide (Turkish pizza), there's something for everyone. However, if you're a vegetarian or have dietary restrictions, you might find it a bit challenging as Turkish cuisine is heavily meat-based.

7. The Turkish Climate Turkey has a diverse climate, with coastal areas experiencing mild winters and hot summers, while the interior has a more extreme climate with very cold winters and hot summers. Depending on where you choose to live, you might need to invest in appropriate clothing and home appliances.

8. The Turkish Education System If you're moving to Turkey with children, it's important to understand the education system. Public schools in Turkey are free, but the language of instruction is Turkish. There are also private and international schools that offer instruction in English and other languages, but these can be quite expensive.

9. The Turkish Transportation System Turkey has a well-developed transportation system, with an extensive network of buses, trains, and ferries. In major cities, there are also metros and trams. However, driving in Turkey can be a bit chaotic, especially in big cities, so it's often easier and safer to use public transportation.

10. The Turkish Work Culture Finally, if you're planning to work in Turkey, it's important to understand the work culture. Turkish people are hardworking and often work long hours. However, they also value relationships and it's common to spend time socializing with colleagues. Also, keep in mind that the job market can be competitive, especially for expats and expats, so it's a good idea to have a job lined up before you move.

In conclusion, moving to Turkey can be an exciting adventure. By understanding the culture, learning the language, and being prepared for the cost of living, you can make your transition as smooth as possible. Good luck with your move!

Expats talk about Moving to Turkey I would say, come to Antalya! It is a great city full of places to visit in the sorroundins. People are very warm and open. Life is easy in Antalya, the streets are safe, the weather is great and there are many activities to do. But not all is good, of course. You have to get used to the Turkish way of living. The problem yok (no problem) philosophy, where everything is ok, never seeing problems, is sometimes comforting and sometimes frustrating. Things are slower than in Europe or USA. You will need patience and adaptation to their culture and way of living. All in all, Antalya is a great place to live, said one member living in Antalya.

10 Things to Know Before Moving to Turkey

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