Experience the Spirit of Turkey: A Glimpse into Ankara

Experience the Spirit of Turkey: A Glimpse into Ankara

In this article, I aim to delve into the unique aspects I encountered during my time in Ankara, Turkey. I will share my observations from the perspective of someone living in a vastly different cultural environment, with distinct values, food preferences, and biases. Turkey, to me, embodies a fascinating mix of contrasts: a blend of restraint and modesty juxtaposed with vibrant weddings, delectable baklava, and fiery cikofta. Coffee and tea abound, which posed a challenge for someone like me who had only ever consumed green tea infused with chamomile, mint, lemon balm, or fruit. The same can be said about the cuisine.

In my brief stay, I had the opportunity to savor Turkish delicacies such as simit, cikofte, döner, and even was a part of a street performance involving ice cream. During our visit to Eskisehir, I tried Turkish çibörek and was enveloped in a wave of nostalgia. Turkish cuisine, to me, represents an entirely different culinary realm brimming with spicy flavors. For instance, while indulging in home-cooked meals, I discovered novel methods of preparing couscous, pasta adorned with yogurt and a sauce crafted

 from sun-dried tomatoes and spices. Soups were another revelation, markedly distinct from the liquid concoctions I was accustomed to in Ukraine, where potatoes or some form of porridge typically feature in traditional soup dishes. In Ankara, restaurants primarily cater to traditional cuisine, so venturing out to sample Italian pasta or croissants requires a concerted effort.What captivated me most was not the architecture of this region, but its breathtaking nature. During our leisure time, we seized the opportunity to travel and explore captivating destinations. On our initial weekend, we visited the vibrant city of Eskisehir, where we meandered through a plethora of intriguing sites, ranging from the Museum of Modern Art to a park reminiscent of Disneyland. However, if asked where I would yearn to return or recommend to others, my unequivocal choice would be Eymir gölü. There, I experienced the sheer majesty of Turkey—its landscapes, nature, and freedom. In a city teeming with grey skyscrapers and mundane edifices, one craves a respite amidst something natural.

Another aspect of Eastern culture that deeply fascinated me during my time in Ankara was the fashion sense and style of young women elegantly donning hijabs. Turkey showcaseda unique amalgamation of modesty and trendiness in their sartorial choices. These individuals effortlessly exhibited their personal style while adhering to their religious beliefs.The hijab styles I encountered displayed remarkable creativity and versatility. These fashionable women paired vibrant and colorful scarves with trendy clothing, resulting in eye-catching and sophisticated ensembles. Whether adorned with floral prints or geometric patterns, they seamlessly integrated their hijabs into their overall look, adding a touch of elegance to their attire. What struck me most was their meticulous attention to detail when it came to accessorizing—thoughtfully combining stylish handbags, shoes, and jewelry to complement their outfits. It was evident that they took pride in their appearance and viewed fashion as a form of self-expression.Attending a Turkish wedding proved to be a delightful revelation for me. Initially, we merely heard the distant sounds of music permeating the streets. As we followed the crowd, we found ourselves unexpectedly invited to join in the festivities. Despite being complete strangers in a foreign land, the locals greeted us with warm smiles and friendliness. Witnessing the traditional folk dances and hearing the lively folk music was a stark departure from our own customary wedding traditions.Overall, this month has been a whirlwind of discovery, immersing me in an entirely different world—the captivating realm of Eastern culture.