To ensure a smooth and respectful experience, here’s a quick guide to some essential Turkish customs and etiquette:
Greetings and Interactions:
- The Handshake: A firm handshake is the norm when meeting someone for the first time. Men may greet each other with a light kiss on both cheeks, but this is usually reserved for close friends and family.
- Respect for Elders: Turkish culture places a high value on respect for elders. Address older people as “Bey” (Mr.) or “Hanım” (Ms.) followed by their last name.
- Body Language: Avoid crossing your arms or putting your hands on your hips, as these can be seen as rude gestures. Maintaining eye contact shows respect when conversing.
Dress Code:
- Religious Sites: When visiting mosques or other religious sites, dress modestly. This means covering your shoulders and knees. Women may be asked to wear a headscarf, which some mosques provide at the entrance.
- Striking a Balance: While Istanbul is a modern city, some areas remain more conservative. It’s always a good idea to dress modestly, especially outside of tourist areas. Think comfortable clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
Table Manners:
- The Art of Eating: Wait until everyone at the table is served before digging in. It’s polite to finish most of what’s on your plate, but don’t feel pressured to clean it completely.
- Slurping is Okay! Unlike in some cultures, slurping your soup or yogurt drink is seen as a sign of enjoyment, not rudeness.
- Sharing is Caring: Sharing food is a common practice in Turkish culture. Don’t be surprised if someone offers you a bite of their dish or vice versa.
Tipping:
- Small Change: Tipping isn’t mandatory in Turkey, but it’s a nice way to show appreciation for good service. A small amount of round-up change is perfectly acceptable.
- Read the Room: Some restaurants may already include a service charge on the bill. If unsure, ask your waiter or simply leave a small tip based on your satisfaction.
General Courtesy:
- Shoes Off: When entering a mosque, someone’s home, or even some shops, it’s customary to remove your shoes.
- Bargaining with a Smile: Haggling is expected at bazaars and some shops. Do it politely and with a smile, and you might snag a great deal.
- Learn a Few Phrases: A simple “Merhaba” (Hello) or “Teşekkür ederim” (Thank you) goes a long way in showing respect for the local language and culture.
Cultural Nuances:
- Pointing: Pointing directly at someone is considered rude. Use an open hand gesture instead.
- The Head Nod: A quick nod down doesn’t necessarily mean “yes.” It can also indicate understanding or acknowledgement.
- The Evil Eye: You might see little blue charms around – these are believed to ward off the evil eye. It’s a cultural belief, so be respectful if you see them. You can buy the same on every market. See the list of best gifts that you can get in Istanbul.