TURKEY is a modern, secular country, with a government system of republican parliamentary democracy.

In every aspect (geographically, demographically, culturally, economically, etc.) a wedge from the eastern into the western world, and an extension of the Western culture towards the East, Turkey is considered to be a bridge between the two worlds. The whole nation is in a constant struggle to stay abreast with the modern civilization.

Turkey is a fairly large country, 780,600 sq. km., with a population exceeding 70 Million, spread over 7 geographical regions. Ankara is the capital, and the largest city is Istanbul.

Great majority of the population is Muslim. Contrary to general perception in the west, true muslims in Turkey generally are the most tolerant and openminded. Fundementalists of the kind who cause trouble in many areas in the world, not tolerated by the community or the law, are very rare in the country, and do not exist in tourist areas.

Climate differs significantly from region to region. Generally, mild shores with rainy winters, and a lot of sunshine during spring, summer and fall. Harsher interiors.

Kalkan, being on the western end of the Turkish Mediterranean coast, enjoys typical Mediterranean weather: Mild and rainy winters, hot and dry summers.

The currency is the New Turkish Lira (Yeni Turk Lirasi - YTL). Major western foreign currencies (US$, GBP, Euro) can be used for payments of all kinds freely.

Electricity is 220V, out of a double pin socket. In the Harpy bathrooms, there is a 110V socket for electric shavers. It is a good practice to carry along voltage and socket adopters. In case of emergency at Harpy, ask assistance from the reception.

Local Time is GMT +2 hrs during winter and GMT +3 hrs in summer. The whole country is in a single time zone.

The official language is Turkish. English is widely spoken in tourist areas. German is also very common all around the country, unfortunately not in Kalkan.