Skip to main content
EF Go Ahead logo

Traveling in Turkey: Q&A with Tour Director Suleyman

We had a chance to sit down and chat with Turkish Tour Director Suleyman, who lives and guides tours at home in Istanbul. Here, his insider info and cultural tips for how to create a memorable trip to Turkey.

We had a chance to sit down and chat with Turkish Tour Director Suleyman, who lives and guides tours at home in Istanbul. Here are his insider info and cultural tips for how to create a memorable trip to Turkey.

Istanbul, Turkey

What surprises you most about American and Canadian visitors? They are excited and passionate for new experiences. Every experience on a Go Ahead trip is so eye opening and fun for everyone. My travelers enjoy things like marveling at the co-existence of the modern and ancient in places like Istanbul, listening tothe call to prayer, enjoying apple tea and of course, experiencing the legendary Turkish hospitality.

One thing that always makes me smile is the attention paid to the cats—Istanbul has many cats living everywhere! Even President Obama got in on the cat action in 2010, famously petting a tabby cat inside Haghia Sophia as then Turkish Prime Minister (and now President) Recep Tayyip Erdogan looked on with a smile. We treasure the cats as well; in many places they are part of the community. It may just be Islamic lore, but there is a story of a cat preventing a poisonous snake from coming near the Prophet Muhammad. This gave us a popular saying, “If you’ve killed a cat, you need to build a mosque to be forgiven by God.”

Are Turks passionate about their food? Yes indeed, here in Istanbul they are especially passionate about their lamb kebaps. Both locals and visitors alike love the s_imit,_ a freshly baked, sesame-crusted bread dipped in molasses. Simit are widely available from street vendors everywhere and can be had with cheese added or nutella and other toppings for less than $1 or $2 USD. While you are here don’t forget to try our local wines either, as they are quite affordable and will also be surprisingly good.

What should everyone do when they visit Istanbul? Experience the Hamam, the Turkish Bath. You’ll be treated like a king or queen for more than an hour in authentic steambath and will leave feeling cleaner than ever. Everyone needs to try it at least once!

What else should travelers know about Turkey? Turkey is a very friendly and safe place. It’s a European city, but it’s also a _Turkish _city. Many positive experiences will happen—you will undoubtedly have a lot of contact with local people. It’s a complete experience. It’s not just going from museum to museum or doing some American style shopping or sitting on the beach. It’s something totally different, a _Turkish _experience. Whether you are shopping for an expensive new carpet or just a few dollars worth of street food, you’ll be glad you came.

Have you ever been to Turkey? What did you love most about it?

About the author

Go Ahead Tours team

We’re a team of passionate travel experts, dedicated to helping people explore the world. From inspiring stories to tips for an amazing trip, the topics we cover are all about getting you out there and making discoveries.

Related tours

Skip to end of carousel

Save up to $600

Save up to $600 on the getaway you deserve—whether you’re craving a trek through the Peruvian jungle or a week in a European city. Claim your deal by 7/22.†

Skip to start of carousel

More travel inspiration

Skip to end of carousel
Travel tips

Why customized group tours can be the best way to travel

Travel tips

Customized Tours: Enjoy bucket list adventures tailor-made for you and your group

Travel buzz

How to make your dream trip affordable in 2025

The glowing facade of Moulin Rouge decorated with Christmas trees and lights
Destinations

Paris in winter: what to do, eat, and see during your free time on tour

Travel buzz

Coolcations: how to beat the heat without skipping summer

Travel buzz

Travel’s best-kept secret: What is off-peak travel, and why is it trending?

Travel buzz

2025’s top travel trends

Destinations

The Ultimate Europe Travel Guide: everything to know before planning your trip

World Travel

EF’s Responsible Supplier Guidelines

Destinations

Things to do in Lima, Peru, to experience its rich history and culture

Destinations

Your guide to the Mesa Verde cliff dwellings: ancient civilizations hidden in Colorado’s canyons

Travel tips

Exploring Himeji Castle: Japan’s graceful White Heron

Destinations

10 fun facts about Seoul’s Gyeongbokgung Palace and how to visit on tour

Travel tips

Things to do in Buenos Aires: The museums, galleries & street art you need to see on your next trip

Travel tips

The 12 best things to do in Buenos Aires for first-time travelers and returning visitors

Destinations

When is the best time to visit Japan? Here’s your season-by-season guide

Destinations

Exploring Arenal Volcano: Costa Rica’s sleeping giant

Travel tips

A food lover’s guide to Lima: What and where to eat on your next trip to Peru

Travel buzz

Is Colombia safe to visit? How a nation overcame conflict to welcome the world

Destinations

When is the best time to visit Costa Rica? Here’s your season-by-season guide

Skip to start of carousel