4 Things To Know Before Visiting A Turkish Home

Anyone who has spent time in Turkey will tell you that hospitality is one of the locals' points of pride. They love hosting well, and we have been the grateful recipients of many a Turkish family’s hospitality. While it is great to tour the sites of Turkey and get a taste of its food, history, shopping, etc, when it comes to observing Turkish culture up close there really is not a substitute for seeing the inside of a Turkish home. If you find yourself heading over to a new friend’s place for tea or a meal, here are a couple of things to keep in mind.

1—Take a gift.

It does not have to be elaborate. Even a bunch of fresh oranges or a small box of chocolate will suffice. While your friend would certainly not expect this, it is a thoughtful gesture and will show your gratefulness for being invited over. *Note: This custom is generally practiced when going to someone’s home for the first time. If you are invited over repeatedly there is no need to take a gift each time.

A friend brought this to us when coming over for the first time. A local sweet called Kadayıf, it was delicious. — A friend brought this to us when coming over for the first time. A local sweet called *Kadayıf*, it was delicious.

2—Take your shoes off at the door.

Turkish homes are kept meticulously clean, and part of this means no one wears their outdoor shoes indoors. Your host will likely present you with a pair of slippers upon entering to keep your feet warm.

3—Be prepared to eat. A lot.

Your host shows their hospitality and generosity by feeding you until you can eat no more, and then feeding you some more. You, on the other hand, show that you are enjoying the food they have prepared by eating the generous portions they serve and exclaiming how good it is. While afternoon tea may only entail a few cookies or rolls, an evening meal may have multiple courses, including soup, the main dish with rice and salad, dessert, nuts or seeds, and fruit. After the fruit is served, you are free to leave, but not any sooner. Needless to say, go on an empty stomach.

Hosts love providing their guests with a wide variety of options.

4—Know you will be consuming a good amount of caffeine.

Tea and coffee are constantly flowing, interspersed throughout conversation, food, cigarettes, and more conversation. As the tea is refilled again and again, your visit is prolonged. Turks are not in a hurry to end times like these, and your host may insist you continue to drink more and more. Don’t worry, though, this insistence is a cultural kindness, they would be considered rude if they did not insist. After refusing kindly two or three times and insisting in return (with plenty of thanks and compliments) that you are full or you have had enough, they won’t continue.

Have you ever spent time in a Turkish home? What are some things that stuck out to you about your experience? What other advice would you offer our readers for being a good guest in Turkey? Comment and let us know!