Culture Shock in Turkey
Understanding gestures in Turkey
It must be borne in mind, however, that the flip side to this is that the Turks think that it is rude to say an outright ‘No’ if something is not possible. Instead you will get a roundabout explanation and until you get used to this, it can be confusing and frustrating not to get a straight answer. The Turks also have an unusual gesture for saying ‘No’. It is an upward flick of the head accompanied by a clicking of the tongue! One rarely ever hears the actual Turkish word for ‘No’ being used!Role of religion in Turkey
Though the majority (an estimated 99 percent) of Turkey's 75 million person population are declared Muslims, the country is adamant about its persona as a secular nation. In fact, this stance is formally declared in the country's Constitution and is officially protected by the army.
As a result, headscarves are still banned in schools, universities and government offices. However, there has been fierce debate over this issue in the last few years and the struggle between the secularists and the traditionalists continue. For all practical purposes, however, as an expat in Turkey - Istanbul in particular - you can safely wear western dress without fear of reprisal.
Addressing others in Turkey
Turkish people will almost always address women by their first names with a Hanim (pronounced Hanum, meaning lady) after it. It is not considered familiar or rude to use the first name. For example Jane Smith will be addressed as Jane Hanim, rather than Mrs. Smith. The male equivalent of Hanim is Bey (pronounced Bay). So John Smith will be addressed as John Bey. Only in very formal situations would they be addressed with the Turkish equivalent of Mr. and Mrs. Smith – Bay and Bayan Smith.
