Turkey's heartbeat is its culture and traditions. Family life is very important in Turkey, as is respect, which is warmly extended to visitors to the country. Situated on two continents, is has a vibrant, cosmopolitan feel. Taking a stroll down the streets during the day, people can be offered fresh, local meats from street vendors who cook food while their customer waits. Turkey is an assault on the senses. With a very warm climate and gorgeous beaches, it is now a regular holiday destination for tourists from all parts of the globe.
Today, Turkish is the world's seventh most widely language with more than 200 million speakers. A few local words, even if incorrectly spoke, is very endearing to Turkish people. This effort is richly rewarded by Turkey's famous hospitality, and visitors may even be invited for a meal in a family home. Since medieval times, there have been public baths in Turkey. Visitors will be expected to de-robe, wrap themselves in a towel and wear wooden slippers. Folk dancing has a long and rich tradition across the country. Performances are enjoyed at social events from national and religious festivals to weddings, and dances vary from region to region. Visitors will also see the resurgence of the water pipe, known as the 'Nargile' or 'Hookah', in modern culture. They are smoked in bars and clubs, and establishments offer a wide variety of fruit and other types of tobacco.
