An increasing number of expatriates are moving to Turkey and making it their home, either to retire, to work or to start a new life.

Turkey has changed dramatically in the last five years and the process of modernization happened very quickly in some areas. In 2000, only around 300 British citizens acquired property in Turkey. Whereas in 2007, this figure is estimated to exceed 50,000 .

Countries from which Turkey has attracted new residents are Germany, the Netherlands, France, Belgium and the UK.

Because of its unique geographical location, rich and diverse history and its reputation as a shelter for different cultures and civilizations, Turkey is a great choice for expatriates and their families.

Housing

When it comes to finding a place to live, Turkey offers many alternatives. You can either choose an apartment in the center of the city or you may prefer a house in the suburbs. Expatriates can buy or rent property without any restrictions. Most of the housing developments are recent projects, and therefore have modern amenities such as parks, playgrounds, recreational areas, parking lots and supermarkets. Within housing developments, there is a wide variety of housing options, ranging from luxurious villas to apartments.

Eating & Drinking

Turkish cuisine is legendary for its delicious starters “meze”, traditional main course delicacies, kebabs and desserts. It is one of the three most popular cuisines in the world together with French and Chinese. Different tastes in every part of the country contribute to the complexity and mosaic of Turkish cuisine. A wide range of eating establishments is available; everything from casual fast-food and/or self-service restaurants to outstanding dining establishments exists in major cities such as Istanbul, Izmir, Kayseri, Gaziantep, Adana, Trabzon and Ankara. In these cities there are also restaurants serving various international cuisines such as Italian, French, Mexican, Japanese, Persian, Chinese, Russian. Additionally, well recognized fast-food chains are present in major cities. Late at night it is also possible to find open food corners and markets.

You might also try out the national alcoholic beverage of Turkey, “Rakı”. Wine culture is also gaining more importance in Turkey and it is possible to find a diverse selection in wine boutiques.

The famous Turkish coffee which was introduced to the western world by Turks in 16th century is not only a drink but also a ritual.

Transportation

In Turkey, there is a large choice for means of transport. In most cities, you have several alternatives, such as light rail systems, the underground metro system, municipal buses, private buses, and taxis. Taxis are plentiful in all major cities and are easily identifiable by their bright yellow color. The fare is based on the distance traveled and is clearly displayed on the taxi meter. Light rail systems and the underground are also available among the transport options in many large cities. In coastal cities, such as Istanbul and Izmir, you can also use fast passenger ferries.

Banking and Finance

Turkey is becoming an important financial center. Many international and local banks operate in Turkey and they offer a wide variety of creative services and products at competitive prices. For more information regarding banking and financial services in Turkey, the Banking Regulations and Supervision Agency as well as the Banks Association of Turkey should be consulted.

Education

Turkey has improved its rigorous and comprehensive education system in the last decade. Its primary goal is to establish a lifelong learning concept for everyone in Turkey.

In Turkey, there are a number of international schools where the curriculum is carried out in major European languages such as English, German, French, Italian or additional languages such as Arabic, Japanese, or Chinese; in the major cities, many private schools teach principally in the foreign language medium.

There are also many Turkish courses which offer practical Turkish language lessons to foreigners.

Healthcare

Hospitals in Turkey are categorized as State Hospitals, University Hospitals and Private Hospitals. Social and health programs are primarily organized by the State but private health insurance is also available. Among the private, state and university hospitals there are many facilities which provide service that is completely on par with international standards with respect to infrastructure and expertise.

Leisure, Entertainment and Sport

In major cities there are plenty of leisure activities, entertainment options and outdoor facilities. Istanbul, Izmir, Ankara, Bursa and Antalya all have an excellent nightlife with plenty of good bars and clubs. You can make your night quite colorful with your choice of local or international music, art and movie festivals, concerts, operas and dance performances. In smaller towns, you can also find cinemas, restaurants offering local cuisine as well as other traditional entertainment and local festivals.

A wide range of activities such as golfing, mountaineering, rafting, skiing, and yachting are possible in Turkey. In recent years, golf facilities which meet international standards have been created. There are six golf courses with an Administration Certificate and nine courses with an Investment Certificate granted by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

You could also opt for a weekend escape to other smaller cities. Turkey is a peninsula surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, the Aegean Sea, the Marmara Sea and the Black Sea. It is divided into seven regions. Each region has a unique cuisine, landscape, climate and fauna. Because Turkey has served as a center for several different civilizations, there are historically significant sites in many cities around the country. Holiday resorts have sandy and sunny beaches and plenty of high quality touristic facilities.