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A trip to Turkey is very exciting, and
understanding Turkish customs and what is considered polite and
impolite is important in this conservative, largely Muslim country.
As a general rule, you will want to avoid hand gestures that are
considered rude or vulgar in Turkey, a mistake that is easy to make
if you do not know better. For example, saying “OK” with a hand
gesture is seen as vulgar in Turkey. In American Sign Language, the
sign for bathroom of putting your thumb between the middle and index
finger is vulgar in Turkey. Turkish people do not smile or talk
without being touched, but be careful with this - men and women do
not touch one another.
Clothing Etiquette
Women should cover their arms and legs to dress conservatively. Men
can wear a suit and tie and use a conservative style for business.
The heat can be intense in Turkey, so wearing a tie is optional.
Dining Etiquette
Everything should be eaten on your plate when you are served at a
host’s home, it could cause offense otherwise. Your fork and knife
should be lined up together on your plate to show that you are
finished eating, and never eat with your left hand, it is not
considered clean. Smoking is common during meals, and it is best if
you don’t ask your fellow diners not to smoke. If you invite others
to go out to eat, you should pay for the entire meal as it is not
traditional to separate the bill in Turkey. If you are invited out
for a meal, show that you appreciate the gesture buy inviting your
hosts out to eat also before you head home from your visit in
Turkey.
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Gifts are Customary in Turkey
Crafts and food from America make great gifts, but keep in mind that
in a Muslim country like Turkey, alcohol is not a drink of choice
for many people, so give that some thought before purchasing
alcoholic gifts. Carnations and roses make exceptional gifts as
well, and so do decoration items for a person’s home like a vase. Do
not purchase expensive gifts. Buy small gifts for children, such as
pastries or candy, and wait to open your own gifts until later.
Be Aware of Your Gestures & Body Language
Saying “no” and “yes” in Turkey are gestures that are different from
the way you may be used to in America. Nod your head going upward to
say “no” while making a sucking sound between the front teeth in
your mouth. “Yes” is nodding your head going down. Standing, whether
with hands on your hips or in your pockets is rude and shouldn’t be
done. Men and women should not touch one another in conservative or
in rural areas, it is not expected.
In Turkey, your feet should remain flat while sitting, because
showing the soles of your feet is an insult. Never use your finger
to point at another person. Don’t forget to never make the “OK” sign
or the America Sign Language sign for bathroom.
Meeting and Greeting Others in Turkey
It’s customary to shake hands with elders first, and shaking the
hands of each person in the room is also customary, children also.
Relatives and friends receive a kiss on each cheek. When visiting
the home of someone for a dinner party, arrive on time and bring a
gift for the host. Shoes go outside.
When Getting Together for Business in Turkey
Scheduling business meetings one and two weeks ahead is customary.
Ramadan is a large holiday, and you should not schedule any
appointments at that time or during the vacation months of August
and July. Getting to know the person you have your appointment with
is important, and the first meeting is used for this purpose. Talk
about things such as Turkish history, sports like soccer and discuss
family, but avoid politics.
Print information in both Turkish and English, and keep eye contact,
as it shows honesty. Visual items are also important, such as charts
for presentations, and prepare to wait for the decision making
process with patience because it can be very slow. A suggestion that
is extreme during the opening of your discussion is meant to see how
you will respond to negotiation, so be prepared.
Typical Questions and phrases
Asked to Tourists when they are in Turkey
1. Do you like
Turkey?
2. Where are
you from ?
3. Would you
like to drink cup of apple juice at our carpet store ? (Street
vendors)
4. Just come and see my friend, you don't have to buy
Why should I visit Turkey?
Turkey is one of the most traveled
tourist destinations in the world and the exposure to culture and
tradition is amazing.
When should I plan my trip to Turkey?
June, May and April have
moderate weather and the days are their longest. Tourism has not
started at this time either and it will be easier to visit sites
without additional people around.
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