Turkiye has a very diverse culture that is a blend of various elements of the Oğuz Turkic and Anatolian, Ottoman (which was itself a continuation of both Greco-Roman and Islamic cultures), and Western culture and traditions which started with the Westernization of the Ottoman Empire and continues today. Turkiye has diverse topography, politics, and culture. Therefore, as an example of diversity, you may cross a woman in little black dress and then turn the corner to find another woman with everything covered but her eyes. When deciding what to wear in Turkiye, bring both conservative clothes for when you notice a change in culture and don’t want to stand out, and your more “summery” clothes for parts of Turkiye where you feel more comfortable.
Although Turkish cuisine is known for being meat-heavy, most local restaurants carry a wide variety of vegetarian options. Some offer zeytinyagli dishes, which are vegetables in olive oil. Almost all the restaurants have vegetarian-friendly meals including salads, hummus etc. As you head towards the historic neighborhoods of Istanbul or to smaller towns in Turkiye, be prepared to drink several cups of tea every day. The avid tea drinkers that they are, shopkeepers will interrupt your shopping spree by offering tea. When visiting a Turkish household, the host will most likely offer a freshly-brewed cup as well. This is sign of friendship and hospitality.

English is NOT widely spoken in Turkiye. Memorizing a few Turkish words are essential. Free-roaming cats and dogs are found everywhere – from the doorstep of Starbucks to luxurious beaches on the Mediterranean coast. They are mostly taken care of by the locals and are quite friendly, so there is no need to fear them. There is even a statue of Tombili – a famous street cat that died in 2016 – in Istanbul. Turkiye is very strict about drug use. There is no leniency when it comes to using or selling drugs within the country, although smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol is acceptable. It’s easy getting around Turkiye. If you’re on a super budget but have lots of time on your hands you can take buses which are about $10-$20 each way. This is likely the best way to travel because you’ll save time and energy.