Exploring the culture, history, and cuisine of Turkey through the eyes of not-just-another-tourist
I have seen limes from time to time in Turkey, but not often. The first time was on vacation at a restaurant in Kas. I hunted them down afterwards and finally found one store selling them. They were imported and extremely expensive. More recently, I have seen them at specialty shops usually around the holidays. ... Continue Reading →
It was very early in the protests when I realized that no one was actually voicing their opinion. They weren't clearly stating what they wanted. Obviously, much like Occupy Wall St., it was hard to do. The protests were growing around the country, but there was no clear leader. No one to make demands. One... Continue Reading →
I was in Istanbul when it all started. I was safely tucked away on an island, and really didn't know what was going on. Friends started to share translations of news reports and videos. At the time, I was amazed by it all. I didn't have a full comprehension, I probably still don't. But when... Continue Reading →
You must be wondering why I never wrote about the protests here on my blog. The beginning of the protests directly coincided with a job offer here in Ankara. This offer came as quite a surprise, and I had decided it was something I really wanted to do. And so began the long process of... Continue Reading →
The U.S. Department of State warns U.S. citizens traveling to or living in Turkey that the U.S. Consulate General in Adana has been authorized to draw down its non-emergency staff and family members because of threats against U.S. government facilities and personnel. The Department of State recommends that U.S. citizens defer non-essential travel to southeastern... Continue Reading →
Rafting fun at Melen Çayı near Bolu -- a day trip from Ankara.
While many things are the same everywhere, there is a big difference between here and the States related to education and jobs. In the States, one takes the SAT exam, and with that score, applies to universities of their choosing. Once in school, they select their major course of study, usually at any time. Of... Continue Reading →
In the news in Turkey is the Deputy Prime Minister Beşir Atalay with his anti-Semitic public comments. I have lived here over three years now. I don't usually get into the depth of conversations, for lack of Turkish skills, that would make me aware of racism here. Unfortunately, I do have one "friend" who in the... Continue Reading →
While visiting other countries, here are some things I miss about Ankara: These are just a few thoughts for the day. Of course, I miss my family the most. And Turkish Tea. I miss tea. And family. Yes. Family. . . and tea.
Yesterday there was a bomb attack on the AKP headquarters in Ankara. Allegedly, it was thrown towards Prime Minister's Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's office. One person was injured. You can read the full story by clicking here: Double bomb attack hits AKP HQ, ministry building in Ankara This morning I received an email with a message from... Continue Reading →
Ankara streets are laid out like a [INSERT TEXT HERE]. No, that wasn't a mistake. The street map is so crazy, I couldn't think of anything to write! So feel free to comment with your suggestions! It's amazing to me sometimes that anyone finds anything. And yet, we do! This is my version of how... Continue Reading →
. . . the mouse will cook bacon! Orecchiette with sauteed (in virgin olive oil) brussel sprouts, onions, tomatoes, garlic, thyme, black pepper and bacon. Topped with Parmesan/Reggiano cheese! It's quick and easy! And I don't think a recipe is needed for this one . . .
A fabulous post from our friend at Captivating Cappadocia: This list was not difficult to make but was wonderful to discover, and there are no filler entries. Every item is legit. To say that Turkish food is delicious would be trite – delectable, scrumptious, delightful, yummy… The breads, the... Continue Reading →
Musings of a Philadelphia lawyer - who married a Turk, quit her day job, and set out for adventure!
-by Terry Henson Kaymak
Adventures in Ankara 