Turkey
Turkey, straddling both Europe and Asia, is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes.
Its vibrant city of Istanbul, once Constantinople, is famed for landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and bustling bazaars. Turkey’s landscapes range from the pristine beaches of the Aegean and Mediterranean to the unique rock formations of Cappadocia and the mountains of eastern Anatolia. The culture reflects a mix of Ottoman, Byzantine, and modern influences, seen in its architecture, music, and arts.
Turkish cuisine is world-renowned, with dishes like kebabs, baklava, and meze. Turkey offers a dynamic blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Passport
Most international travelers can enter Turkey with a valid passport. Here's a general guide:
Visa-Free Entry
Travelers from many countries, including but not limited to:
- United States
- Canada
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Japan
- South Korea
- Most EU countries
Can enter Turkey without a visa for tourism or business stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
Visa Required
Citizens from countries not listed above might need to obtain a visa before traveling to Turkey. Check the latest visa requirements based on your nationality.
Remember, your passport should typically be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure from Turkey.
ID Card
Travelers from the following regions can enter Turkey using just a national ID card:
- European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) countries: This includes all EU countries plus Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein.
- Switzerland: Swiss citizens can also enter with their ID card.
Ensure your ID card is valid for the duration of your stay.
Toll Roads in Turkey
Turkey's climate varies significantly by region:
Seasons
- Summer (June to August): Hot and dry, especially along the coast, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Inland areas can be much hotter, sometimes reaching above 40°C (104°F).
- Winter (December to February): Cold in the interior and mountainous regions, with snow, while coastal areas like the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts experience milder winters with occasional rain.
- Spring (March to May): Mild to warm with occasional showers, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Flowers bloom, particularly in April.
- Autumn (September to November): Warm to mild, with temperatures gradually cooling down. This period can be ideal for visiting as it's less crowded than summer.
Regional Variations
- Mediterranean Coast (Antalya, Alanya): Hot summers, mild winters. Expect temperatures around 25-35°C in summer and 10-20°C in winter.
- Aegean Coast (Izmir, Bodrum): Similar to the Mediterranean but with slightly cooler summers due to sea breezes.
- Black Sea Region: Rainy throughout the year, with mild summers (20-25°C) and cool, wet winters.
- Central Anatolia (Ankara, Cappadocia): Hot summers (30-35°C) with cold, snowy winters. Temperature swings can be dramatic.
- Eastern Anatolia: The coldest part of Turkey, with harsh winters and hot summers. Cities like Erzurum can see temperatures below -20°C in winter.
Weather Tips
- Clothing: Light clothing for summer, but always carry a light jacket or shawl for cooler evenings or air-conditioned places.
- Sun Protection: High UV levels in summer, especially along the coasts. Use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
- Rain Gear: For the Black Sea region or during spring/autumn, carry an umbrella or raincoat.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially during hot summer days.
Weather in Turkey
The official currency of Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY).
Banknotes and Coins
Turkish Lira banknotes come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 TRY. Coins are available in 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 kuruş, and 1 TRY.
Currency Exchange
Currency exchange services are widely available at airports, banks, and exchange offices (called "Döviz Bürosu"). Credit and debit cards are accepted in most urban areas, but carrying cash is advisable for rural areas or smaller transactions.
Travel Tips
- Card Payments: Inform your bank of your travel to avoid card issues. Some places might charge extra for card payments.
- ATMs: Known as "Parabank" or "ATM", they are widespread for cash withdrawals. Be cautious of ATM skimming devices.
- Tipping: While not mandatory, tipping for good service in restaurants or taxis is appreciated, typically 5-10%.
- Exchange Rates: Check the current exchange rates as the Turkish Lira can be volatile. Exchanging money at official exchange offices often gives better rates than hotels or airports.
Currency in Turkey
The official currency of Armenia is the Armenian Dram (AMD).
Banknotes and Coins
Dram banknotes are available in denominations of 100, 200, 500, 1000, 5000, 10000, and 20000 AMD. Coins are available in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 AMD.
Currency Exchange
Currency exchange services are available in major cities, airports, and tourist areas. ATMs are also widely available, allowing you to withdraw AMD directly from your bank account.
Credit and Debit Cards
Credit and debit cards are accepted in urban areas, restaurants, and shopping centers. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas.
Travel Tips
- Notify Your Bank: Inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with card transactions in Armenia.
- Currency Conversion Fees: Be mindful of currency conversion fees when using your card abroad. Some ATMs may offer dynamic currency conversion, which could involve higher fees.
- Small Change: It is useful to carry small change for minor purchases, tips, and public transportation.