Frequently Asked Questions for Turkey

Prepare yourself to a one of a lifetime experience! Leave your preconceptions at home and embrace the enthusiasm. Your curiosity will carry you through the beauty, variety and exotic culture of Turkey. Your imagination will broaden with the prosperity of history, splendor of the land and the friendliest gracious Mediterranean people.

We guarantee that you will have a wonderful time. Here are some FAQ which includes the tips to review before going to your fantastic trip:

What is the population in Turkey?

Turkey's land is over 301,000 square miles, which is larger than Texas, and almost twice as large as California. About 3% of the land is in Europe (Thrace), and 97% is in Asia (Anadolu, Anatolia, Asia Minor). Population is over 68 million inhabitants, with concentrations of over 10 million in Istanbul, and about 3 million each in Ankara and Izmir. Turkish language uses the Latin alphabet with some variations. In major cities, many residents speak foreign languages, mostly English and German.

Do I require a visa for to enter the country?

Tourists are required to hold a passport valid for 6 months from date of entry. A visa is required for American and Canadian citizens. An "Entry Visa" with a fee of $20 per person (Single Entry) is currently (as of April 01, 2004) required for US Citizens traveling to Turkey. Such visa fees can be paid for, and visas can be obtained easily, just before the Passport Control, at the entry point in Turkey, and will be good for a 3-Month stay. You may consider a "Multiple Entry Visa", ($65 per person) if you are planning to enter Turkey more than once during such 3-month period}. For further information on such matters you may contact The Turkish Consulate in your region: New York : (212) 949 - 0160 Chicago : (312) 263 - 1295 Los Angeles : (323) 937 - 0118 Houston : (713) 622 - 5849

What are the custom rules, and the limited items to bring? What can cause problem passing the customs?

You may bring in almost anything you possibly will need for your personal use and convenience. Limited items are: 400 cigarettes, 50 cigars, and 21/2 liters of alcohol. Turkey is very strict on anyone attempting to export antiques without authorization or anyone caught with illegal drugs, whatever the amount.

How many baggage are allowed per person? What is the limit on weight basis?

Turkish Airlines allow two checked bags per person (neither to exceed 32 kg) for international flights. For the business & first class passengers this weight exceeds to 96kg. For the domestic flights economy class passengers are allowed to carry 20kg and as one checked bag.  On the other hand for the business & first class passengers 30 kg per person is acceptable again with one checked bag. All passengers may also carry a handbag on the plane not exceeding 8 kg.

What is the monetary unit in Turkey? Are the credit cards and traveler's checks accepted? Where would you advise to exchange my money?

The monetary unit is the Turkish Lira (TL). Major U.S credit cards and traveler's checks are widely accepted in major cities and resort areas. However, you will need cash for restaurants and shops in the countryside. The largest bill at present is the TL 20.000.000. With inflation upwards of 40% annually, the value of the lira constantly changes against major world currencies. Therefore, we would like to advice to exchange your money when you arrive to Turkey. Banks offer considerably better exchange rates than hotels. It's also sometimes more convenient to do payment in U.S. dollars when bargaining for special prices. Banks are open weekdays from 8:30am to Noon and from 1:30pm to 5:00 pm.

What is the time difference between countries?

Turkey Standard Time is 2 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time; 1 hour ahead of mid-European time and 7 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time, U.S.A. Do I need an adapter for my electronic equipment? The electric current in Turkey is 220 volts AC in all parts of the country. Not all but, most major hotels in the main cities have adapters and converters available for guests' use.

How is the weather like in Turkey?

The climate is gorgeous on the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts and cooler in the central Anatolia through April and October. Perfect months for enjoying the beaches and the coastal areas would be through July and August. The climate is changeable in winter through November and March. It is never very cold along the Mediterranean coast, but it can become rainy and chilly; there may be dustings of snow in Istanbul and Ankara.

Could you give some information about the Turkish food?

Turkish food is said to be one of the best in the world, something for every type of palate. Turkey along its long history has been home to many people who emigrated from all over the world. Consequently, the Turkish cuisine has many reflections of Europe, Asia and the Middle East cuisines. The food is very healthy. It is full of fresh vegetables & fish, grains, endless varieties of lamb and wonderful fresh organic fruits. Turkish yogurt is a basic in the diet. Menu usually starts with a wide variety of meze� (an assortment of small salad-type dishes with endless variety). Main dishes which are usually grilled meat, fish, stew or kebabs follow the mezes. Turkish coffee usually ends the meal, along with sweet Turkish desserts like baklava. Raki is the traditional Turkish alcoholic beverage in Turkey. But you have also the choice of surprisingly delicious local wines. The universal drink is tea served in tiny tulip-shaped glasses.

How is shopping like in Turkey? What would you suggest to buy from Turkey?

Going shopping in Turkey is an experience in itself. It is one of the greatest pleasures, especially at the various bazaars. The rich variety of Turkish crafts offers endless opportunity for unusual discoveries. The best buys in Turkey are: porcelains, jewelry, embroideries, meerschaum pipes, ceramics, leather and suede, copper, brassware, tiles, and the famed Turkish carpets. As you travel around, you may have the opportunity to observe the handicrafts being made at local workshops. Don't forget to bargain which is the part of the enjoyment. On national holidays, such as Ramadan and Kurban, shops are closed on the first day; banks are closed for the entire holiday period. Consult the Turkish Tourist Office for exact dates before your departure from the U.S.

Is the tap water drinkable?

Although Turkey has good drinking water - the water is chlorinated and safe to drink - bottled water is highly recommended and can be found in nearly all stores at a reasonable price.

What is the dress code in Turkey?

There is no restriction or dress codes. People are generally informal. Men will find that a jacket and tie may be appropriate for top restaurants and hotel dining rooms in Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir. Light cottons and linens are ideal for summer travel, with a cotton sweaters or jacket for evenings. Windbreakers are recommended for sea cruises. Causal attire (slacks, shorts and bathing suits) are fine for the seaside and countryside, while in Istanbul, you'll feel comfortable in something a bit more formal. Two essentials are sturdy, comfortable walking shoes and a sun hat. April to October: Very light and comfortable clothing, preferable cotton and drip-dry for day wear. November to March: Coats, lined raincoats, sweaters and suits. The secret to dressing this time of the year is to "layer" and "peel" as the weather changes. When visiting a mosque you will be required to remove your shoes. Ladies, remember to pack a scarf for mosque visits.   What kind of sports can be done in Turkey? Sports are becoming a very big attraction and if you enjoy Golf, Football, Paragliding, Scuba Diving, Trekking, Sailing, and many more, you can enjoy all of these in the sunshine in a country that offers so much. Try a balloon tour with an exquisite overview of Cappadocia.

What is the common feature of the Turkish People?

Hospitality is a cornerstone of the Turkish way of life; even the poorest Turkish peasant would do his/her best to honor his/her guest ("misafir"). No matter what linguistic barriers may exist, Turks will make every effort to converse with the visitors to make them feel at home.

What is the common religion in Turkey?

%90 of the people in Turkey is Islam. However, Turkey is a secular republic state, and the Turkish Jews, Christians, etc. freely practice their religions. It is the only country in the World, in which mosques, churches and synagogues have coexisted peacefully for centuries.

Are the service charges included to the services? How much should I leave for the Tip?

Although service charges are included, it is customary to show your appreciation to hotel personnel and to your guide and driver. In general practice the tipping is %10. For tour tipping, depending on the service received, and between 3 to 6 USD per day per participant for your tour guide, and about half of this amount for your driver, are appropriate.

Does MTM give insurance in its services?

We recommend that you purchase adequate and comprehensive travel insurance before departure. Mediterranean Travel Management is NOT responsible for loss or damage to luggage, accidents en route or ill-health that may require you to miss part of your trip or your return to the U.S.A. and the group.

We wish you a magnificent trip as Mediterranean Travel Management.

Thank you for traveling with us.

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