Turkish is, for the most part, a phonetic language, i.e., it is spoken as it is written. It can be confusing at first, as there are a number of grammar rules to master. Once the visitor is familiar with the fundamental sounds, however, it is possible to make oneself understood.

In the larger cities and in all areas of significance to tourism you can be sure that local restaurants, taxi drivers and shopkeepers will be multi-lingual. The more commonly spoken languages are English, German, French and Italian.

A simple guidebook to common phrases will make your visit more enjoyable. Turkish people are extremely hospitable to foreigners, and they genuinely appreciate any effort made to understand their language and culture.