Oh, Turkey — or shall we say Türkiye? The country officially changed its name at the United Nations in 2022 to better reflect its rich culture, values, and traditions.
How do we even begin talking about all those, plus the unique landscapes, and otherwordly views?
The country uniquely sits between Europe and Asia, making it a popular stop on European travels, particularly on popular cruises from around the world.
But Türkiye deserves a trip of its own. A 12-hour flight from the Philippines will take travelers to the bustling capital of Istanbul, where Türkiye’s European side takes front and center. Everyday conveniences like various public transportation options, never-ending shops and cafes, and a whole lot of modernity can make the city feel commonplace. Locals, who speak fluent Turkish and English, are so warm and open. Always down for a small talk, they can easily make visitors feel understood and instantly welcomed.
Located mostly in Asia Minor — with smaller parts of the country sitting in Southeast Europe — Türkiye boasts of a diverse set of cultures, races, and religions. It is primarily a Muslim country with prayers heard daily, but the country has a deep history with Christianity, which is also still being practiced today.
And that’s all from just scratching the surface.
In this series, GMA News Online explores the wonders of Türkiye.
THIRD OF FOUR PARTS
To say that Türkiye needs to be on everybody’s travel bucket list is an understatement.
This gem of a country is home to a diverse set of cultures, races, and religions — all of which are accepted and understood — making it incredibly exciting to explore. There is something for everybody, and something new in every corner.
If you’re ready to apply for that visa and book that flight, here’s everything you need to know before your visit to The Republic of Türkiye.
1. Pack for both cold and warm weather
Spring season in Türkiye begins in April and lasts until May. By June, it’s summertime.
GMA News Online toured the country in mid-May, and got to experience the perfect balance of warm and cold weather. With these in mind, be sure to pack clothes for both high and low temperatures.
Unlike the Philippines, it is not humid in Türkiye and the heat is not as crazy. When the sun is out, the days can get bearably dry.
By the nighttime and the early mornings, the wind is stronger and the overall atmosphere is cooler.
When going for that hot air balloon ride, which usually starts at 5 a.m., prepare for temperatures that could drop to 15C.
Pack light clothing, bring jackets and scarves, and layer as you see fit. Wear sunscreen. Bring a hat, your sunglasses, and having a reusable water bottle during tours is a good way to travel sustainably.
There is a lot of walking to be done in Türkiye, so make sure to also wear comfortable shoes.
2. Jetlag is a challenge
Türkiye is a 12-hour flight away from Manila, and has a five-hour time difference with the latter being ahead. For example, if it is 10 a.m. in the Philippines, it is only 5 a.m. in Türkiye.
As such, jetlag can be a big challenge. You might be too sleepy to partake in dinners, which usually start at 8 p.m. (1 a.m. in the Philippines). Or you might end up being wide awake in a Cappadocia cave hotel at 3 a.m. (8 a.m. in the Philippines).
Plan your tours ahead and make sure to make time for disco naps and rest.
3. Shopping is fun and easy
Shopping is a fun and easy experience in Türkiye! The country is best known for their treats like the jelly candy Turkish Delight and a wide selection of nuts, scarves and ceramic items, and of course, carpets.
There is not a shortage of the evil eye, a.k.a. the Turkish lucky charm, on the streets. It’s available in various forms like bracelets, keychains, room décor, clothing items, and many others, for you take home as a souvenir or pasalubong.
Make your way to the Grand Bazaaar in Istanbul, often referred to as the first shopping mall in the world. Incidentally, it is also among the largest covered markets in the world, spanning 61 streets, housing more than 4,000 shops, and attracting at least 250,000 guests every day.
Payment isn’t a problem either. Most souvenir shops, regular boutiques, and a number of convenience stores accept Turkish Lira, US Dollars, and Euros. Of course, debit and credit cards are welcome.
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4. Conversing with the locals is not a problem
Most if not all locals are English speakers so it’s super easy for Filipinos to shop, order food, and navigate the Eurasian country.
What you’ll be delighted to know: Turkish people are not only good looking, they are extremely friendly as well. They are always down for a small talk with travelers, and may even invite you out for drinks, just like old friends.
They are also a resourceful bunch. Locals who aren’t fluent in English often use the voice feature on Google Translate to communicate with travelers.
5. Be open to spontaneous adventures
Again, Türkiye is a country with something new and exciting in every corner you look. A street can hold a historical landmark or a picturesque view of the Black Sea, and the place right next to it may have a rising café that invites you to go in.
For example, the Taksim Square in Istanbul is the place where the Republic Monument stands. It commemorates the fifth anniversary of the foundation of the Republic of Türkiye in 1923, following the Turkish War of Independence.
Less than two minutes away is ?stiklal Avenue, an area with popular fast food chains, shops that sell both local and international products, cozy cafes, Turkish street food, and even tattoo parlors. The adventures are endless!
This story was produced through a familiarization trip sponsored by Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA).
— LA, GMA Integrated News
