Culture Shock! Turkey: A Survival Guide to Customs and Etiquette

Culture Shock!

by Arin Bayraktaroglu

A Survival Guide to Customs and Etiquette in Turkey

Genres: Nonfiction, Travel, Cultural

198 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 1996

Reviews

[Joshua]

Some great insights, but definitely dated for a reader in 2018.

[Jenel]

The version I have is a bit outdated (by 15 years), but still relevant. I believe a newer version is available. Accurate content.

[Natasha]

While definitely more of an etiquette book than travel guide, Culture Shock! Turkey, was a very helpful read. I'll be traveling to Turkey next month, and I find it very important when visiting a foreign country, to at least get enough knowledge about the culture to not offend anyone. And while this book did satisfy this need, it did not supply me with enough phrases to feel comfortable greeting and conversing with a native speaker. Some phrases were present, but the pronunciation of said phrases were not.

Needless to say, I did find this book interesting and enjoyable. But I would recommend an actual language book (or CD) as a supplement if you wish to successfully converse with the locals as well.

[Sue]

Although not literature, the "Culture Shock" series are invaluable aides to help understand the culture and mores when traveling in other countries. Much of the information is geared toward temporary residents (particularly business), but nevertheless its all helpful. Knowing ahead of time, for example, that the "thumbs up" gesture so common in America to indicate pleasure is among the worst of rude gestures in another culture can save untold embarrassment. Learning about the cuisine, dining styles, bathing habits, and numerous other quotidian matters that the guide books never mention is worth its weight in gold.
Not a heavy read; easy to read on an airplane.

[Elizabeth A]

Read this one in preparation for an upcoming trip and found it interesting. These guides are not travel guides per se, they describe local customs and etiquette. So, I now know, in case it comes up to give a woman an odd number of flowers, and not to take wine as a hostess gift. See what I mean?

[M]

the turks are interesting...can't wait to meet more of them.

[Alan]

One of a series of travel books which talk about culture and people rather than sightseeing. Useful.

[Dustin Sherman]

Absolutely love this book and I reference it all the time when trying to discuss the Turkish culture to other individuals! This is a must read before, during, or after your trip to Turkey!

[Omarove]

It was a very useful book and a guide for me in my short trip to Turkey. If I happen to go to a country, I will definitely look for it in this charming series (Culture Shock!).

[Paulina]

A must-read for those who are moving to Turkey. Some pieces seem a bit outdated though.