In Turkey, hospitality is a rule of life

In Turkey, hospitality is the basis of social relationships, whether they are at home or away from home, it is a real rule of life. Every opportunity is good to help others. If you get lost in the immensity of Istanbul, and ask for help, it is very likely that they will not only give you directions, but will accompany you directly to where you want to go.

In this article, I will focus on Turkish hospitality when entering a Turkish home.

Hospitality should not be taken lightly, it is a very important aspect of Turkish culture, as I told you it is a rule of life and must be respected, both if you go to Turkey and if you visit Turkish friends.

An unwritten code of conduct in Turkey

It requires a code of conduct to follow, which is taught to every Turk from an early age.

The guest is very important, so his coming and his presence implies duties and acts that will give the image of being a good host.

Take off your shoes before entering the house in Turkey

I have already talked about it extensively in my previous article, taking off your shoes before entering the house is a real lifestyle.

It is unthinkable to believe that you can enter a Turkish house with shoes on; the gesture would be interpreted as a real lack of respect. For this reason, slippers of all sizes will always be available to guests in every Turkish home.

Once you take off your shoes to sit in the house, your shoes will be well arranged by the hostess, or by her daughter, if she is of an age to participate in this, let’s call it, duty.

Immediately after, the guest is offered cologne (usually with lemon). After rubbing his hands with it, he will be offered a “lokum” (candy).

The omnipresence of tea

Meanwhile, the quintessential symbol of Turkish hospitality, tea, is boiling in the kitchen … and awaits its moment to make its entrance!

The offer of tea in Turkey is considered a real moment of relaxation and sharing, as well as a great gesture of hospitality, tea is a must and can never be missing!

The visit continues like any courtesy visit, we discuss and ask for news of the respective families.

The tea is ready! The “ceremonial” of offering tea is about to begin, accompanied by biscuits, cakes, dried fruit …