Turkey is known for its rich culture and the people who live there, but visiting Turkey can be a bit of a culture shock for many visitors. The article offers advice on what to do if you experience culture shock while in Turkey, from dealing with cultural differences to meeting new people. This piece of Article is a great read for anyone who has visited or is planning on visiting the country and wants to know a little more about it!
What is The Culture Shock?
If you have ever been to a new country, you know what it’s like when your expectations about that place are completely different from reality. This is also known as culture shock.
Turkey, a country with a majority Muslim population
Turkey is a country with a majority Muslim population. Religion is an important part of Turkish culture, and many people living in Turkey adhere to Islamic beliefs. Islam is the dominant religion in Turkey, and Muslims make up about 95% of the population. The remaining 5% of the population consists of Christians, Jews, Buddhists, Hindus, and other religious minorities.
Turkish culture is based on Islamic values. Women in Turkey are expected to be obedient to their husbands and keep quiet in public. They are not allowed to work outside the home or study beyond high school. Men are responsible for financially supporting their families. Turkish women have a limited role in society, often facing discrimination.
The social customs in Turkey are very different from those in America. For example, Turks don’t usually shake hands when they greet each other. Instead, they offer a nod or a handshake with the palm facing down. Turks also tend to be much more direct than Americans when speaking to each other. They don’t use “please” or “thank you.”
Despite these differences, many Americans find it easy to adapt to life in Turkey.
Cultural norms and practices
Turkey is a Muslim-majority country with a long and complex history. Its people have a unique cultural heritage, which can be quite different from other countries in the region. Despite its many attractions, Turkey can be daunting for those unfamiliar with its customs and traditions. Here are a few things to keep in mind if you’re planning to travel to Turkey:
- Muslims must cover their heads and bodies when outside the home. It’s customary for women to wear headscarves, and men should dress modestly.
- Alcohol is prohibited by law in Turkey, so alcoholic drinks are generally not available on the open market. Instead, they are typically served in restaurants or bars.
- Turkish people are generally polite and respectful, but they may also be abrupt or unyielding when confronted with direct opposition or disagreement.
- Turkish culture is highly individualistic, so it’s important to do your research ahead of time if you want to know what specific customs to observe during your stay.
Where Should I Live In Turkey? – Expats Answer
I’m moving to Yurkey, but I’m not sure where to go. Can anyone offer advice? is a common question posted in one of our many Facebook groups by people who are considering migrating to a new nation.
The Turkish Diaspora
As Turkey experiences rapid modernization, the country’s population is also experiencing a culture shock. Rapid urbanization, changing social norms, and new technology are overwhelming for some Turks living in countries such as the United States, Germany, and France. Turkish immigrants to these countries face unique challenges in adapting to their new surroundings while preserving their cultural identity.
From adjusting to new language requirements to coping with unfamiliar food, there are many challenges that Turkish immigrants face when relocating to a new country. However, despite the unique obstacles they may face, Turkish immigrants are often successful in assimilating and building successful careers.
Preference
First, it’s important to understand that Turkish society is hierarchical. This means that people are expected to defer to those who are older, more educated, or more powerful. This can be difficult for foreigners who are used to more egalitarian cultures.
Hospitality
Second, Turkish culture is oriented around family and friends. It’s not unusual for Turks to invite strangers into their homes, offer them food and drink, and ask them questions about their lives. This can be incredibly generous, but it can also be overwhelming for visitors who are used to tighter social circles back home.
Religious Mindset
Finally, Turkish society is very religious. This doesn’t mean that Turks are necessarily religious zealots. Many Turks are quite secular – but it does mean that religious rituals and ceremonies play a significant role in everyday life. Visitors may get caught up in religious ceremonies without realizing it or being expected to participate.
Modern Turkish Culture
Modern Turkish culture is a mix of East and West. The country has been through many wars and has adapted to changing times. Turkey has also maintained its traditional values, which are important to the people.
The following are some of the key aspects of modern Turkish culture:
- Turks are very proud of their history and heritage. They value tradition very highly and will often take pride in displaying their cultural traditions publicly.
- Turks are very open-minded and accepting of other cultures. This is a result of the country’s history, which has seen it come into contact with many different civilizations.
- Turkish society is built on family values. Children are expected to obey their parents and care for them in their old age. Marriage is also considered an important part of society, and couples typically try to stay together as long as possible.
- Turks enjoy a lot of leisure time, which they use to explore their culture and heritage. Many Turks also enjoy going on vacation, spending time with friends or family, or engaging in other social activities.
The Economy Of Turkey
The Turkish economy is one of the most diversified globally, with a GDP of $806,804 million (2021) with 11% Growth rate. Its largest sector is services, accounting for more than 60% of GDP. The country has a well-developed infrastructure, including the world’s longest rail network. Agriculture, which accounted for 6.7% of GDP in 2021, now employs only 1% of the workforce. Manufacturing and mining are also important sectors.
Turkey’s currency, the lira, is pegged to the euro. Inflation averaged 5% over the past five years but fell to 3% in 2016. The government has taken steps to reduce inflation by adjusting prices and wages and encouraging private investment.
The unemployment rate was 10.5% in 2016 but is forecast to fall to 7.5% by 2020 as economic growth accelerates. About 55% of the population is employed in services, making it one of the most service-oriented economies in the world.
Religion In Turkey
Religion in Turkey is a big deal. Turks are overwhelmingly Muslim, and the country has a long and complex history with Islam. Not surprisingly, religion plays a big role in Turkish culture. Here are five things to know about Turkish Islam:
- Muslims must pray five times a day.
- Women must cover their heads and bodies when they’re outside.
- Homosexuality is criminalized in Turkey.
- Alcohol is banned in most public places.
- Muslims must donate 2 percent of their income to charity.