Turkey is just a few hours from the UK and Ireland, yet daily life has its own rhythm. Here are twelve things that surprise and delight first-time visitors.

1. Tea is offered everywhere

Shopkeepers, carpet sellers and hotel staff will offer you a small glass of tea (çay). Accepting is polite and rarely obliges you to buy anything.

2. People go out of their way to help

Turkish hospitality is real. Ask for directions and someone may walk you there.

3. Breakfast is a banquet

Expect a table covered in small plates, not a full English. Weekend breakfasts are a social event.

4. The call to prayer sets the rhythm

You’ll hear the ezan from mosques five times a day. It’s part of the soundtrack of every town.

5. Cats rule the streets

Istanbul’s street cats are fed and cared for by whole neighbourhoods, and many have their own little shelters.

6. Lemon cologne on arrival

Restaurants and buses often offer a splash of kolonya on your hands — refreshing on a hot day.

7. Evil eyes are everywhere

Blue glass nazar charms hang in homes, cars and shops to ward off bad luck.

8. Shoes off indoors

In homes and mosques, shoes come off at the door. Hosts often provide slippers.

9. Dinner is late and long

Families eat late, especially in summer, and a meal with friends can last for hours.

10. The dolmuş

Shared minibuses run fixed routes and stop wherever you wave. Pass your fare forward and the change comes back down the bus.

11. Bargaining is a conversation

In bazaars, haggling is part of the experience — friendly, slow and often accompanied by tea.

12. “Afiyet olsun”

You’ll hear it when your food arrives. It means roughly “enjoy your meal” or “may it be good for you”.

Respect goes a long way: dress modestly at mosques, never insult the Turkish flag or Atatürk, and carry ID. More in our local laws guide.