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. 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 know a few things that you must not do. Below are some tips to take with you on your trip to Turkey.
1. When in Turkey, don't make the "OK" sign with your fingers. It's considered to be a very vulgar gesture in Turkey. Also, don't put your thumb in between your index finger and middle finger. It's another vulgar gesture, much like "giving the finger" in the U.S.
2. Don’t stand with your hands on your hips or in your pockets.
3. Don’t point at someone with your finger.
4. Never point the sole of your foot toward a person.
5. Don’t enter homes or places of worship with your shoes on.
6. Shorts or revealing clothing are not a good attire for both, men and women in places of worship.
7. When you are inside a mosque, even if it is not prayer time there will often be several people praying, so don't disturb them in any way, don't take flash photography and don't talk or stand directly in front of them.
8. Don't do a lot of kissing and hugging with a person of the opposite sex in public. These actions are considered rude and offensive.
9. Don’t use your left hand when dining. The left hand is considered unclean.
10. Do not indulge in talking about politics.
11. Never be late, whether for a dinner or a business appointment.
12. Do not expect someone to go “dutch” with you. If the invitation was yours, you pay the bill.
13. Do not fill up a half full glass. Wait till it is empty, then fill up.
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