Chicken doner and beef doner at outdoor vendor (bignai (123RF))
Eat meals on the economy, attend local festivals and learn about Turkish traditions. Address the differences between life in Türkiye versus back home and gain an appreciation for diversity while exploring.
• Some restaurants may not serve alcohol and pork due to Muslim religious practices.
• Tipping is generally around 10–15 percent of the bill, and if especially good service is received, 20 percent is appreciated. Leaving it on the table or adding it to the bill is fine.
• Complimentary tea or small pastries are sometimes served after a meal.
• Open containers of alcohol are prohibited on streets and sidewalks. Please keep open containers within businesses and residences.
• When you enter a store, you may be pressured to buy something. A good rule of thumb is to not enter unless you are prepared to purchase an item.
• Upon entering and being greeted by the shop owner, you may be offered Turkish tea as a sign of hospitality and friendship. There may also be instances where you will even be offered a small gift or food as their guest. It is suggested that you take the offer and thank them.
• It is typical to politely haggle for certain items, depending on the situation. For example, if the item does not have a price tag, or you know the price of comparable items, you may be able to lower the price. If you agree to the price, it is considered binding.
• Do not give away or sell your items purchased at the BX.
• Follow traffic laws and regulations as you would anywhere else in the world.
• In cities, expect aggressive driving.
• Horn usage is common in Türkiye and may be used to indicate that someone is turning, entering a blind corner or just to let you know the light turned green.
• Give seats on crowded transportation to elders or others in need of a seat.
• Watch out for scams in urban areas, and always practice situational awareness. Elicitation is common, including sextortion through online dating applications or flirting in-person. Always be cognizant of strangers’ potential motivations.
• Religious professing is frowned upon culturally.
• The Turkish Penal Code makes it illegal to insult the President of Türkiye and you can be arrested by local police as a result. Additionally, you will see great respect given to historical figures such as Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the first president of Türkiye from 1923 to 1938. A good rule of thumb is to avoid controversial or political conversations or statements.
• If you are detained for any reason, present your “I am an American” card, then contact your chain of command and the Legal Office at 676-6800 (for Incirlik personnel).
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. During this month, among other observations of their faith, some Muslims fast, which means they do not eat, drink or smoke from dawn until sunset. U.S. personnel are not obligated to fast. It is important to be aware and respectful of this observance, especially if you are off-base. Please note that some restaurants, parks, stores and services may have different hours and may seat you away from a wide public view to eat.
For more information check out the Air Force Culture Guide app on the Google Play Store and Apple App store.
