Climate in Turkey
You can’t picture Turkey without picturing its scenic beaches and coastal towns. It’s a country which has all four seasons. From warm sunny days to picturesque autumns to beautiful snowy days perfect for skiing.
The climate varies from region to region, but the summers are generally dry and sunny. The coastal areas have mild climates, while the interior has a more continental climate.
The climate in the interior is characterized by snowy winters and dry summers.
With warm summers, gorgeous springs, picturesque autumns, and beautiful winters, Turkey has it all.
Summer
Summer is the perfect time to visit the coastal regions of Turkey. Seaside restaurants are aplenty, and the nightlife is vibrant.
The summer months in Turkey are from June to August with temperatures varying from place to place. These months are known for their warm weather, perfect for days at the beach, and nights out in town.
Visitors can enjoy spending time in the coastal regions of Turkey with Antalya and Fethiye being especially popular for their beaches.
Although the prices tend to be higher for coastal areas during the season, prices in cities become more affordable.
Spring
The tulips herald the arrival of spring in Turkey. It is the best season for people averse to the summer heats and crowds. While it can rain occasionally, the temperatures are mild, and the days are long.
Flora is in peak bloom during this season and it’s the perfect time to enjoy Turkey’s natural beauty.
The spring season lasts from March to May and the tulips from Istanbul are a particular highlight. Cities are a popular place to be during the season, with Izmir and Bursa being particularly noteworthy.
Autumn
Mild, comfortable temperatures are what makes Autumn in Turkey. Perfect for walks along the city and exploring the heritage and history of Turkey. Beautiful forests and road trips.
The sight of the forest turning yellow is not one to be missed. Autumn is the perfect time to take a more relaxed vacation in Turkey.
The season lasts from September to November with short days and the occasional rain. Mardin and Assos are a must-stop for history fans.
Winter
Winter in Turkey is more than its wonderful winter sports and ski resorts. It’s also cozy cafes, hot Turkish tea, and beautiful vistas. The weather can be chilly and snowy, with cold sunny days, and cold rainy days. But the prices and tourists are at their lowest.
The season ranges from December to February. Naturally, the ski resorts tend to price the highest during this season. The region of Cappadocia is especially beautiful during the season. The ski resorts of Bursa are also known for their slopes
Life in Turkey
Turkish Hospitality
Turkish hospitality is more than an empty saying, it is one of the pillars of Turkish culture. There is a saying that regardless of your origins, in Turkey, you are God’s guest.
Guests are valued and even tourism hasn’t abated the hospitable nature of the Turkish people.
Kisses on the cheek are the traditional way of greeting each other in Turkey. Family is important and the Turkish people are respectful to their elders. You will never feel unwelcome in Turkey, just be prepared to drink a lot of tea!
Language
The official language of Turkey and Cyprus, it is spoken by over 83 million people.
Turkish is a phonetic language where each word is written exactly as it’s spoken.
With a long history, there are a lot of different dialects in Turkish. Istanbul Turkish is considered the standard version of the language.
Do you need to know Turkish?
You don’t need to speak Turkish to enjoy Turkey. It is a popular tourist destination and English is the second most spoken language in Turkey. The signs and menus are usually printed in English as well. However, knowing a few phrases won’t hurt and can delight the local people.
Clothing in Turkey
As a country steeped in history and tradition, Turkey has plenty of beautiful traditional clothing.
Each region of Turkey has its traditional outfit and history. The colors and patterns vary widely from region to region. Turkish outfits are generally bright in color and have plenty of layers. Yasmak, Islak, Fes, and Salvars are some of the traditional Turkish outfits.
Since over 70% of the people live in urban areas, modern and designer clothing is prominent as well. High fashion can be seen on the streets of cities like Istanbul and Ankara.
Clothing in Turkey is as varied and colorful as the people living there.
Turkey’s Culinary Culture
Among the upper echelons of international cuisine of French, Italian, and Chinese, Turkish cuisine stands proudly among them. Food in Turkey is varied and diverse. Turkish cuisine is inspired by its history. Situated at the crossroads of the world, the food is influenced by Europe and Central Asia.
Food
You will find a lot of variety in Turkish food as its culture and climate varies from region to region. Seafood is abundant and the country is rich in fresh fruits and vegetables.
The western and Aegean regions are more influenced by the Ottoman empire and Greek cuisine. Rice is preferred and spices are less used. Seafood is plentiful year-round.
The area by the Black Sea heavily favors its seafood. This area gets its culinary influences from Balkan and Slavic cuisine.
The Anatolian and the south-eastern part of Turkey are known for their kebabs, mezzes, and spices.
Drink
Tea
A signature of Turkish hospitality, it is a cornerstone of culture in Turkey. It is usually black tea served in a small glass called çay bardağı. It is drunk any time of the day as well as in the evening.
Turkish coffee
Another staple traditional drink, it has a unique taste due to its brewing method. It’s fluffy, foamy, and has a hint of bitterness from the coffee beans. Sharing Turkish coffee is considered a symbol of friendship.
Raki
A popular alcoholic drink, it is served with water and occasionally with ice. It takes on a milky appearance when mixed with water and ice. Shared between friends after a long day.
Go for the culture but stay for the people. In Turkey, you are God’s guest.
