Turkish calligraphy is a centuries-old tradition, where strokes on paper become an art form that transcends mere writing. The Essence of Turkish Calligraphy At its heart, Turkish calligraphy is a celebration of form, balance and artistic expression. This ancient practice employs a variety of styles, but they all share a commitment to creating a visual melody on paper. The graceful curves and intricate details of Turkish calligraphy transform the written word into a dance of elegance. The Legacy of Ottoman Script The pinnacle of Turkish calligraphy lies in the Ottoman script, a distinctive styl ..read more

When visiting Turkey, it’s important for travelers to be aware of certain taboos and cultural sensitivities in order to show respect and avoid unintentionally offending locals. Here are some key points to keep in mind: Dress modestly Turkey is a predominantly Muslim country, particularly in more conservative areas. It is advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Both men and women should avoid wearing revealing clothing or shorts. Women may consider covering their shoulders and wearing longer skirts or trousers. Respect for religious customs Turkey h ..read more

A fascinating way to enhance your language skills and cultural understanding of the Turkish language to explore the rich world of Turkish folktales. Folktales have been an integral part of Turkish culture for centuries, as they have passed down from generation to generation. These stories not only entertain but they offer deep insights into Turkish culture, values and language.  Here are descriptions of some well-known Turkish folktales: Nasreddin Hodja Nasreddin Hodja is perhaps one of the most famous figures in Turkish folklore. He is a wise and often comical character. He is known fo ..read more

When visiting a mosque in Turkey, it’s important to observe proper etiquette as a sign of respect for the religious and cultural practices of the country. Here are some guidelines to follow: Dress modestly and remove Footwear Dress modestly and conservatively. Men should wear long pants, and women should cover their hair with a scarf and wear clothing that covers their arms and legs. Before entering the mosque, remove your shoes and leave them outside. Many mosques provide plastic bags for you to carry your shoes in. Greeting It’s customary to greet the mosque’s caretaker or an official with a ..read more

Throughout history, Turkish has borrowed numerous words from other languages, particularly Arabic, Persian, French, and English. These borrowed words have enriched the Turkish vocabulary and reflect the cultural exchanges that have taken place over time. Similarly, Turkish has also lent its words to other languages, creating a reciprocal borrowing process. Here are some examples of Turkish words that have made their way into the English language: Turquoise The word turquoise dates to the 17th century and is derived from the Old French turquois meaning “Turkish” because the minera ..read more

 There are several  reasons why you should consider learning Turkish. Cultural Exploration Turkish is spoken by approximately 80 million people, primarily in Turkey, but also in Cyprus and in many communities of Turkish speakers around the world. By learning Turkish you gain access to a rich and diverse culture, which includes literature, music, art and history. Being able to connect with the traditions, customs and values of Turkish society opens up new avenues for exploration and understanding. Communication Opportunities Learning Turkish provides you with the ability to communicat ..read more

Turkey, with its unique blend of history, culture and natural beauty, has emerged as a popular holiday destination for travellers from around the globe. From stunning beaches and ancient ruins to vibrant cities and mouthwatering cuisine, Turkey offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to every traveller’s taste. One of the main draws of Turkey is its breathtaking coastline. With the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas lapping against its shores, the country boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. From the pristine white sands of Oludeniz to the vibrant party atmosphere of B ..read more

Useful phrases when talking to Turkish business partners about logistics. Asgari sipariş miktarı ne kadar?                                                What is the minimum order quantity? Örnek koleksiyonu ne zaman gönderebilirsiniz?                  When can you send the sample collection? Üretim ne kadar sürer?                                   ..read more

A man who has scalded his lips on milk will blow on his ice cream. Destiny caresses the few and molests the many. Listening requires more intelligence than speaking. Love and blindness are companions. He who would be loved must begin by loving. The man who conceals his pain will never find a cure. Stretch your feet only as your blanket allows. A sword does not cut its own sheath. Gold button cannot belong to a torn coat. The mind is for seeing, the heart is for hearing. The heart is like a glass castle, it cannot be mended. The post Turkish proverbs (part 4) appeared first on HandsOnTurkish ..read more

Now it’s Türkiye, not Turkey at the United Nations What’s in a name? A great deal, if Turkey’s president, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, is to be believed. His years-long quest to change his country’s moniker to Türkiye (pronounced Tur-key-yay) had reached a successful conclusion when the UN gave its official blessing. “Türkiye is the best representation and expression of the Turkish people’s culture, civilisation and values,” The change to Türkiye has a sound historical basis. Land areas occupied by present-day Turks were known by various names over the centuries, including Asia Minor, Anatolia and ea ..read more