Etiquette, like good motor oil, is the lubricant that enables societies to run smoothly. Take them away and the ride gets bumpy. Turkish people are familiar with the customs of western visitors and are forgiving of blunders, however, it impresses them if you are aware of the customs of Turkey. Turkey’s geographic location – on the border between Europe and the Middle East and Asia - has had some influence on the country’s culture as well as its popularity with tourists. The fusion of east meets west is most apparent in Turkey’s cities with the rural communities retaining many more of the old customs and traditions. However, wherever you chose to visit in Turkey, you should always be aware of some rules of etiquette. While some major Turkish cities are Westernized, Turkey is still a Muslim country and much of Turkey can still be conservative and traditional, so it's important to learn about their etiquette. 
The most endearing aspects of Turkish culture is their fine delicate etiquette. Good manners are very important in Turkish society. Most of the time a Turk will not openly criticize, or directly say you should do things in a particular way. Instead, a common practice is telling a story that incorporates the issues, and brings one around to think about and hopefully notice the similarity. Another approach is for someone will gently whisper in your ear if the incident is one that need immediate attention. Exposing others faults is considered very rude. Rather the Turk would attempts to over look the faults of others, and certainly does not bring them to the attention of others. Below are some etiquette tips to take with you on your trip to Turkey.
The Importance of Religion
Islam is the religion of the majority of Turks although the state is fiercely secular. The Prophet Muhammad is seen as the last of God's emissaries (following in the footsteps of Jesus, Moses, Abraham) to bring revelation to mankind. He was distinguished with bringing a message for the whole of mankind, rather than just to a certain peoples. As Moses brought the Torah and Jesus the Bible, Muhammad brought the last book, the Quran. The Quran and the actions of the Prophet are used as the basis for all guidance in the religion. Many Islamic customs are integrated into society and the etiquette practiced on a day to day basis. Dressing and behaving modestly is a sign of respect in modern Turkey. Outside of a tourist resort, if women in particular are not dressed appropriately, they can attract unwanted reactions from Turkish people. It is best if women try to cover their arms and shoulders, and wear longer dresses. Men should try to keep their shoulders covered when out in public, and it is best to opt for longer trousers in the less tourist-driven areas. If visiting a mosque, the dress code demands that women should cover their head, shoulders, arms and legs, taking care not to show ankles or feet. In both cases, shorts are not considered appropriate attire for men or women. 
Among certain obligations for Muslims are to pray five times a day - at dawn, noon, afternoon, sunset, and evening. The exact time is listed in the local newspaper each day. Friday is the Muslim holy day although this is not practised in Turkey. However, most males will attend the congregational afternoon prayer. During the holy month of Ramadan, all Muslims must fast from dawn to dusk. Fasting includes no eating, drinking, cigarette smoking or gum chewing.
Customs for Visiting a Mosque
Many people like to visit the wonderful array of mosques in Turkey. However it is important to take note of some basic mosque etiquette. The main custom for visiting a mosque in Turkey is to remove your shoes before going inside on the carpet. If unsure just observe others and follow them. It is also another custom in mosques in Turkey to dress modestly so that your body and limbs are covered. Women must cover their hair and nor expose anything below their ankles. Men should not wear shorts. In some mosques the caretaker provides visitors with a long robe when their clothes are inappropriate for the mosque. You should not talk loudly in a mosque as this is a place of worship. If someone is praying, do not under any circumstances walk directly in front of them. Many people will not appreciate having their pictures taken during worship. At the time for congregational prayers, i.e. at the time for the call to prayer, you should leave the mosque.
Body Language and Gesticulating
Turkish people have some very different gesticulations, so it is wise to learn what these are to avoid any confusion or embarrassment. In some rural areas, where religion has more of an influence over everyday customs and behaviour, women and men are expected to keep some distance apart in public. Therefore handholding, hugging and kissing are not undertaken. Even handshakes and eye contact between the sexes is avoidable. However in more urban locations, this is much more relaxed and there is a lot of integration between men and women. Handshakes and a kiss on each cheek between men and women are common forms of meeting and greeting. Personal space between the same sexes is much smaller than in many Western countries, so you can expect to be bustled or shunted when queuing or in a crowded place. The way in which a Turkish person will indicate ‘Yes’ is similar to the Western practice, in that it is just a small nod of the head downwards. However, ‘no’ is indicated by a nod of the head upwards, often with raised eyebrows or a sharp intake of air through the front teeth. With sitting, the proper etiquette is that the soles of your feet, even when wearing sandals or shoes, should also stay flat to the floor, and should never be pointed directly at anybody. This would be seen as ignorant and disrespectful. You might also find that you innocently make a vulgar gesture to a Turkish person – be aware that the ‘OK’ sign is actually a very rude and provocative signal, as is placing your thumb between your index and middle finger, much like "giving the finger" in the U.S. Avoid these gestures at all costs.
Evil Eye
This is a typical item, a specialty of this region you should take home as a souvenir. It's called the Boncuk, the Little Magic Stone that protects one from the “Evil Eye” (pronounced "bondschuk"). You will see this blue glass piece everywhere here in this area. The force of the evil eye (or Nazar) is a widely accepted and feared random element in Turkish daily life.
Hamam
Another feature symbolizing the Turkish way of life is the Turkish Baths or Hamam. They have a very important place in Turkish daily and historical life as a result of the emphasis placed upon cleanliness by Islam. Since Medieval times public bath houses have been built everywhere and they retain an architectural and historical importance. The Turkish way of bathing in a hamam is very healthy and refreshing, so do not forget to visit a hamam. There are different timings for men and women. The fame of The Turkish bath resides in its bringing together many dimensions of the society's culture to create a new phenomenon. The hamam has long been an institution in Turkey, with a deep-seated social character that is capable of shedding light on many aspects of Turkish life.
Here are some general cultural norms:
1. If invited into a Turkish person’s home, be punctual and the proper etiquette is to bring a gift with you to show your humbleness and gratitude. Be aware that Turkey is a Muslim country. Before giving alcohol to anyone be 100% sure that they drink.
2. The protocol of Turkish hospitality dictates that the host always pays for the meal. The concept of sharing a bill is completely alien. You may try and offer to pay, which may be seen as polite, but you would never be allowed to do so. The best policy is to graciously thank the host then a few days later invite them to do dinner at a restaurant of your choice.
3. Tea or Turkish coffee is served at the end of a meal sometimes with pastries. Turkish coffee is a national drink and should at least be sampled.
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