Turkey is a warm and sunny country popular with beach lovers. However, when planning to go there, there are a few important things to learn.
Visa
Russian, Ukrainian and Belarusian citizens receive a Turkish visa upon arrival at the country's airport. The visa stamp costs $ 20 and is valid for 2 months. A visa must also be purchased for children, regardless of age.
Language and communication
Turks are sociable and hospitable people. But in the process of communicating with them, one should not rush and be impatient. In tourist centers, English, French and German are used for conversation. Many service employees speak Russian. Nevertheless, in order to win over the locals, it is better to learn at least a few Turkish phrases.
Safety regulations
Turkey is a pretty safe country. But although theft in resort cities is an extremely rare phenomenon, it is better to leave valuables, documents and large sums of money in a hotel safe.
Fashionable districts and rich suburbs are absolutely safe, but in any large city, especially in Istanbul, there are places that are better to be avoided. You can ask your guide about the availability of these.
Don't use public transport in the evening. It is advisable to always have a passport with you, or better - a copy of it, as well as a business card of the hotel.
Money
Going to Turkey, you need to stock up on dollars (best of all - in small denominations, since there may be difficulties with the exchange). A little euro will also come in handy.
You should not change your currency to Turkish Lira at the airport, hotel or small shops. There is an extremely unprofitable course there. Better to contact the official exchanger.
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Currency is accepted in most stores, so only a small amount will need to be exchanged for minor expenses. Credit cards are also accepted for payments.
Tips
Tipping is customary in Turkey. On average, they are 5-10%... Upscale restaurants usually leave up to 20%. In Turkish baths, the tip is 20-30%, since it is calculated for the entire service staff. Tipping is not so widespread outside the resort area.
Some helpful tips
When going to the beach, it is worth bringing sunscreen with you. It is not recommended to sunbathe under the hot rays of the midday sun.
Shoes must be removed when entering the mosque. A woman can visit a mosque wearing a long skirt and covering her head with a scarf or kerchief. Skirts and kerchiefs can be found at the entrance. You should not enter the mosque during prayer.
It is not recommended to drink tap water, it is better to purchase it in plastic bottles. It should be borne in mind that the larger the container, the cheaper each liter will cost.
There is no need to ask for pork dishes in Turkish restaurants.
In hotels, restaurants and shops, it is worth remembering the traditional forms of courtesy. The words of greeting and gratitude will make an especially favorable impression if they are pronounced in Turkish.
