Local Customs & Etiquette in Bornova, İzmir, Turkey

1. İzmir Market Traditions

Explore the bustling markets of Bornova for authentic Turkish goods. Haggling is common and expected.

Knowledgeable Vendors: Vendors often have extensive product knowledge, helping you make informed purchases.
Local Delicacies: Taste traditional Turkish foods like baklava and simit at the market stalls.
Cultural Interaction: Interact with locals, learning about their customs and daily life.

Enjoy the local delicacy of çig köfte at a Bornovan restaurant. Use your hands and don't mix with salad.

Hand Preparation: Çig köfte is prepared by hand, making it a unique dining experience.
Separation from Salad: Eating çig köfte separately from salad respects Turkish culinary traditions.
Social Dining: Enjoy çig köfte with friends or family, as it's typically a shared dish.

Relax at a traditional tea garden and experience the serene Turkish tea culture.

Tea Time Ritual: Tea time is an important part of daily life in Bornova, providing a chance to socialize.
Variety of Teas: Try a range of flavored teas like apple tea and mint tea.
Calming Environment: Tea gardens offer peaceful settings, perfect for unwinding after a long day.

Navigate the Bornova public transportation system with courtesy and respect.

Line Priority: Stand on the right side of escalators to allow faster-paced walkers to pass.
Respectful Distance: Maintain a respectful personal space when standing near others.
Polite Conversation: Be courteous and mindful when engaging in conversation with fellow passengers.

Experience vibrant Bornovan nightlife by following local etiquette and customs.

Respectful Conduct: Be mindful of your behavior when out at night, as many people are out late.
Late-Night Eats: Satisfy your hunger with a midnight snack from street vendors or cafes.
Dress Code: Smart casual attire is acceptable in most nightlife spots, but dressier options may be preferred for upscale venues.

Master the art of bargaining at Bornovan bazaars to get the best deals.

Negotiation Skills: Develop your negotiation skills by starting with a lower offer and gradually moving up.
Patience: Remain patient during negotiations, as it may take time to reach an agreement.
Respectful Tone: Maintain a respectful and friendly tone throughout the bargaining process.

Respect park rules and enjoy the tranquil beauty of Bornovan parks.

Litter-Free Environment: Dispose of waste properly to maintain a clean and eco-friendly environment.
Respect for Wildlife: Avoid disturbing local wildlife and respect their natural habitats.
Pet Friendliness: Bring your pet along, as many Bornovan parks are pet-friendly.

Experience the warmth of Turkish hospitality by dining at a local's home.

Shared Meal: Prepare to share dishes, as it's a common practice in Turkish households.
Course Structure: Expect multiple courses, including appetizers, main dishes, and desserts.
Conversational Atmosphere: Be prepared to engage in friendly conversations with your hosts.

Respect the local Muslim community during the holy month of Ramadan.

Fast Observance: During daylight hours, avoid eating, drinking, and smoking in public.
Evening Gatherings: Join locals for the evening meal called iftar.
Patience: Be patient during this time, as many establishments may have reduced hours or be closed entirely.

Participate in local festivals and learn about Bornovan history and culture.

Historical Significance: Each festival showcases different aspects of Bornova's rich cultural heritage.
Community Spirit: Experience the camaraderie and unity that comes with participating in local festivals.
Authentic Performances: Enjoy traditional music, dance, and other performances showcasing Bornovan arts.

Understand Turkish greetings and gestures to make a good impression.

Handshake Customs: Shake hands firmly, making eye contact during introductions.
Gesture Consideration: Avoid pointing with your index finger; use an open hand instead.
Formal Greetings: Use formal greetings and titles when addressing elders or strangers.

Respect the cultural artifacts at Bornovan museums and learn about Turkish history.

Quiet Environment: Maintain a quiet environment to allow others to enjoy the exhibits.
Respectful Touching: Do not touch artifacts unless expressly permitted.
Guided Tours: Take advantage of guided tours to learn more about each exhibit.

Visit Bornovan mosques with respect and understanding.

Dress Code: Cover your arms, legs, and head when visiting a mosque.
Silent Prayer Space: Speak softly and walk quietly in the prayer area.
Prayer Timings: Respect prayer timings by avoiding disruptions during worship times.

Savor authentic Turkish coffee in a traditional Bornovan coffeehouse.

Turkish Brewing Method: Experience the unique method of brewing Turkish coffee using a cezve.
Portion Sizes: Order small, strong portions to fully appreciate the coffee's flavor.
Social Interaction: Engage in stimulating conversations with fellow coffee drinkers.

Navigate Bornovan shopping streets and find unique Turkish treasures.

Local Shops: Support local shops by purchasing items such as hand-woven carpets and traditional ceramics.
Haggling Skills: Develop your bargaining skills to get the best deals on high-ticket items.
Product Knowledge: Ask questions about the items you're interested in to gain valuable product knowledge.