The Mediterranean coast of Turkey attracts millions of tourists. If you ask people coming back from Turkey where they have been to, it is highly likely that their answer will be Antalya, Alanya, Kemer, Side or Belek. These are the most popular destinations. The holidays spent in these resorts bring you only lifetime memories.
The most popular type of holidays in Turkey is all-inclusive. And when we say “all-inclusive” we really mean that everything is really included: the gentle sun, the warm sea, delicious food, exciting excursions, dreams that come true. That is why once you have been to Turkey, you always want to go back. And some of tourists do go back: they buy a holiday property so that they can enjoy the Turkish Riviera more often or even get a residence permit in Turkey.
Tips for holidaymakers
Antalya is a province where its rich history is combined with modern lifestyle. Here you will be impressed by the mixture of ancient ruins and modern hotels, preserved nature and human-made parks.
If you are tired of lying on the beach, you can explore the history of Turkey and its culture by observing numerous historical sites carefully preserved on the coast of Antalya.
- The Red Tower (Kizil Kule), the symbol of Alanya, opens the doors of the ethnographic museum to the visitors.
- In the Aspendos Amphitheatre you will feel as a participant of a grand theatrical play.
- If you are searching for peace and relaxation, walk through the streets of ancient Phaselis and Mahmutlar.
- Romantic people can look for the rainbow in the splashes of Duden and Kurshunlu Waterfalls.
- Visit the Mini City Museum where you can feel like Gulliver among the Lilliputians.
- Interested in animals and water world? Visit the Antalya’s Zoo and the aquarium.
- Families with children can have a wonderful family day in the Sports and Recreation Centre, Kepezpark in Varsak.
Antalya is a place that has to offer something interesting for absolutely everyone. We can say for sure that one day is not enough to truly explore the province.
Tips for expats
If you have already got the residence permit, that means you have already bought a property and you don't have to stay at a hotel. Now you have enough time to get to know all sights in this wonderful region. However, a hotel accommodation and permanent residence are different things. To live in a foreign country requires the knowledge of local laws, respecting the traditions and customs of this country, observing certain social rules.
Here are some examples of these rules.
1. Clothes. However, Turkey is a secular state, Islamic traditions are still quite strong. So, try to be modest in clothing, especially in small town and villages. In big cities people tolerate only tourists. And you are no longer a tourist.
2. Behavior. Be careful when you take photos. If you suddenly took a photo of a person, ask for their permission to use this photo. It is forbidden to smoke and drink alcohol in public places. Be careful when talking to a woman. If there is a slight shadow of immorality in what you say, it can turn out to be a big problem. Control your gestures. Not everything that is normal for your country will be accepted in Turkey. The thing you can surely feel free with is bargaining.
3. Religion. Be extremely careful with everything connected with religion. Take off your shoes when entering the house and dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.
4. Services. In Turkey it is common to give tips which are usually from five to ten percent from the bill. Credit cards are accepted to pay tips.
These are just small examples of what you can face in Turkey if you decide to choose this country for permanent residence. Perhaps, at first, you will need some legal advice or psychological support or some household advice. In Antalya there are plenty of expat communities where you can meet expats from different countries. So, you won't feel alone.