%3 of the country is in Europe and %97 is in Asia . Turkey is a bridge between Asia and Europe. It is surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, Aegean Sea, Sea of Marmara and the Black Sea. Turkey is a democratic, secular, unitary, constitutional republic with a diverse cultural heritage. Turkey has become increasingly integrated with the West through membership in organisations such as the Council of Europe , NATO , OECD , OSCE and the G-20 major economies .
Turkey's time zone is EEST (Eastern European Summer Time) UTC/GMT +3 hours
Turkey can be visited year-round depending on your itinerary . Spring and fall are the most comfortable seasons to travel due to mild temperatures and less rainfall . Summer temperatures are high and season is ideal for cruising the Aegean and hanging out on the beach . If you are visiting Turkey in summer time (particularly July and August), you may need a sun hat and sun blocks to protect yourself against sun burning, also people with sensitive skin should have something to cover their shoulders for the same reason. If you are visiting Turkey in winter time ( Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar), you will need your warm clothes as the temperature may drop down as low as -15 C ( 5 F ) especially in the central eastern parts of Turkey. Also, have your umbrellas and raincoats.
Unlike the rest of the Middle East, Turkey s weekend falls on Saturday and Sunday. There may be a few hours on Friday afternoons when a few shops are closed for Friday prayer , but generally everything varries on as normal, especially in big cities . Almost all government offices and Banks are open between 8:30 a.m to 5 p.m , and are closed on Sundays. Shopping malls have long hours from 9 a.m to 10 p.m .
The international dialing code for Turkey is +90 . IDD is widely available . The outgoing international code is : 00 .
Electricity in Turkey is 220 volt, 50-60 cycle . If you intend to bring any electrical equipment , an adapter that converts electricity from 220V to 110V is suggested. Two pin plugs are used throughout Turkey .
Turkey has a good long distance bus network with air conditioned buses, reserved seats and generally good service quality . Buses are staffed by good drivers and a number of asistants . During the ride , you will be offered free drinks.
In summer, light summer – wear(t-shirts and shorts) for all coastal regions will be fine . Don t forget your sun block and hat ! A light sweater is also a good idea for evenings when it can get chilly , especially in Istanbul and Cappadocia. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended . For winter time travelers , we recommend regular winter clothing especially for central Turkey where heavy snow and cold weather can be encountered . For winter time in Istanbul a warm jacket is a must .
Turkey is one of the safest countries in the world to travel, but some rare instances of crime, theft and robbery happen in big cities. Especially, if you would like to walk around the city at night, leave your valuable stuff, money and passport at hotel safety box. Almost every tourist hotel has a safety box service free to hotel customers.
Most of the retaurants display their food in windows, or waiters can bring the samples if you request. Also, the menu that shows available food can be found at your table, in tourist areas in English as well. If you are eating out in a restaurant, waiters expect some tip usually 5 to 10% of your bill, you may leave it at the table separately. But it is not like a must in Turkey .
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