Advice for someone going to Turkey?
I'm from Ireland and I'll be going to study in Turkey for 3 months as part of a student exchange programme. What should I expect from young adults in Turkey? One thing I'm not sure about is religion. Is Turkey a very religious country? Should I be open about my atheism or will this alienate people? Also, as alcohol consumption is haram what do young people there do for fun?
Turkey - 4 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
turkey can be considered religious, but the government is secular. and the youth and the people in general are very tollerent. as long as you don't insult them. unless they bring it up don't mention your atheism. alcohol is haram but turks don't really care about that rule. we drink(i never drank in my life) turkey is one of the most tolerant countries on earth. as long as you don't insult us. than you'll feel what hell is. btw, forget everything you see on the news. stereotyping will get you nowhere, it is important to note: it snows in turkey ,
2 :
You didn't say which city you are going but i assume it's Ä°stanbul. Turkey is more conservative compared to western European countries, and people are sensitive about their culture and their religion. But don't worry Turkish people are tolerant in general and they love guests. Nobody will care about your atheism unless you make them think like you don't respect their religion (Islam). But i recommend you to stay out of religious discussions just in case. Yes alcohol is haram in Islam, but Turkish people drink anyways and there is a live nightlife in Istanbul (bars, concerts,etc). I didn't hear of anyone who got bored in Istanbul. There will be cultural differences of course, and some little misunderstandings because of different languages but nothing that mutual respect won't solve out. Have a good time!
3 :
Dont worry. I assume you are not going to study theology, so relax. :-) Young ppl are pretty cool and you can have lots of fun with them.. I studiest abroad till my senior year in high school. I had the same worries as you when my parents forced me to go back with them to Turkeybecause I did not know Turkey so well. I finished school here and believe me, 2 years here in high school was so much fun! Hundred times better than in Germany.! I wont even mention university.Youll be surprized when you get here. Modern, open, friendly and cool friends! Have fun and good luck!
4 :
you have to observe there strict rules when entering the mosques. and churches.
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