{"id":10853,"date":"2022-05-03T08:30:26","date_gmt":"2022-05-03T15:30:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/aleta.life\/?p=10853"},"modified":"2024-07-26T08:58:00","modified_gmt":"2024-07-26T12:58:00","slug":"the-only-guide-to-turkey","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/aleta.life\/index.php\/2022\/05\/03\/the-only-guide-to-turkey\/","title":{"rendered":"The Only Guide to Turkey You’ll Ever Need"},"content":{"rendered":"

Whether you have always yearned to explore the most European of Asian countries, or the idea of a trip to Istanbul on a whim just entered your head, this guide will tell you everything you need to know for a successful trip.<\/p>\n

Getting There<\/h6>\n

The best way to reach Turkey is by sea in your own sailboat. To do this head down to your local marina and buy a Valiant 40 or 42. Once the paperwork is complete, hop aboard and sail as quickly as conditions allow for Turkey\u2019s west coast. There you have your choice of landing places, but we recommend Marmaris for its sheltered bay and laid-back vibe.<\/p>\n

If you can\u2019t find a worthy Valiant, then consider flying in on any airline that goes there. Google \u2018Flights to Turkey\u2019. You could take a train. Google \u2018Trains to Turkey\u2019. Or arrive by bus, or bicycle, or on foot, but we don\u2019t have time for any of that right now.<\/p>\n

Getting Around<\/h6>\n

\"Only<\/p>\n

Public transit is plentiful across the country. Local buses run locally and longer-range busses go farther afield. (I could write this drivel \u2013 ed.)<\/em> You might hitchhike. Lots of people do it because the local busses are a little iffy on scheduling. Be prepared to sit in the back of small trucks with goats and the Kangal<\/a> dog guarding them. Be nice to both if you choose this option.<\/p>\n

Most convenient is a rental car. Roads in Turkey are good and outside the cities fairly empty. Petrol prices are regulated, so expect to pay what you do at home, or sometimes less. Local driving quirks include ignoring pedestrians everywhere, and especially in crosswalks (bear this in mind if you are on foot). The only stop lights that matter are the ones you can\u2019t see. If you\u2019re the first car at an intersection ignore all the other lights, they\u2019re for someone else. Drivers behind you will give you a helpful toot when the light changes from red to yellow on its way to green. Stomp on the gas as hard as you can and you\u2019ll be driving like a Turk in no time.<\/p>\n

Other local habits include driving the wrong way along the shoulder, swerving around sleeping dogs, and slowing down to the speed limit when drivers coming the opposite way flash their lights. Speeding is common, but watch out for speed traps and local document inspections by the Jandarma<\/a>. They do a lot of that. Keeps them busy, I guess.<\/p>\n

What to Wear<\/h6>\n

If you bring only a stout pair of boots<\/a> or walking shoes you have packed well. Imported items command premium prices and local quality varies widely, so bring your favourite hikers. Any other clothing can be purchased for pennies once you arrive, along with massive suitcases to take it all home again. Bring a wide brimmed hat, too.<\/p>\n

Young Turks dress in fashionable jeans and t-shirts. Older ones add jackets for men and ankle-length dresses for women. You are not expected to follow suit. Women should wear a headscarf and be prepared to cover their elbows and knees when visiting religious sites. Men should wear long trousers. Almost every site has instructions. Be nice and honour them.<\/p>\n

What to See<\/h6>\n

\"2022-01<\/p>\n

Go everywhere. You will be welcomed. Having visited almost every nook and cranny of the country, here is a short list if you only have a couple of weeks (and a car):<\/p>\n