9 replies to this topic

[maz]

Hi all
I have read several travel reviews lately n most said the same - that this year the only probs they had was the Turkish folks being "extra" pushy n rude, trying to get u into their bars/restaurants n shops. They were bad in may but I always found a polite NO THANK YOU worked, but it seems as the seasons gone on, they have got worse?
I realise they have to make a living, but am a bit concerned this time as I am coming on my own! Luckly I'm half board n all I'm coming out for ( 2 weeks on Monday 11 oct ) is to catch the sun, also as hotel (turihan) is right on beach I won't have to go far. But I'd still like to wonder about- without too much hassel! So any tips would be grateful!
I was told in may that the Turkish laws had changed and that they weren't allowed to pester you? Is this still true?
Also can anyone tell me what weathers like this time of year, as when I checked on net, it said you had rain all day yesterday, and is it cold? Do I pack my jumpers n bring my fleecy PJ's? Lol
Will shops still be open n are them blasted mossies STILL about? Lots of ?'s I know but u know what us females are like - if we ain't packed the kitchen sink then we ain't ready! ;-D
Many thanks - a very excited
Maz

[Ahududu]

Hi maz,
If you're travelling on your own, sometimes it's good to wear a 'wedding ring', and always be on your way to meet your 'husband'!! Or you could be waiting for him to meet you on holiday!
A little white lie, but sometimes it makes things a bit easier for yourself!

Good luck and have a great holiday!

[benhalterci]

Maz, times are hard and maybe that's why the shopkeepers and restaurant owners seem pushier this year. I don't know. I live in Istanbul and would never go to one of the resorts as I hate being hassled.
As far as the weather - read my other post:) Hope the Istanbul weather hasn't reached where you're going:)

[Cukurbagli]

Here is a link to a good weather forecast site Maz.

LINK

[scoobydoo]

Maz, good tips from the others about the hassle, just be polite and walk away and the wedding ring/husband meeting is a great idea.

Regarding the weather, well, this time of year, anything goes but on the whole it will be a darn site better than in the UK! Last night here in Alanya we had the mother of all storms, sheet lightning, howling gales and heavy rain but today it's glorious and about 28C! Layers of clothing are best, bring a pair of trainers and socks plus a light waterproof jacket just in case of rain and a cardi, jumper or pashmina for the evenings.

Have a great time!

[maz]

Thanks for all the tips- I'll defo wear wedding ring!
As for the weather - well, I'll prob hide in the wardrobe if a storm starts as I HATE them! Lol
I'd planned on buying a thick fleece jacket whilst I'm over there but looks like I might need 2!
I'm sure I'll have fun no matter what the weather - I've plenty of books to take n read ;-))

[jakkigers]

HiMaz, we're still here in Gumbet so may see you when you're here! If you need any books let me know as I've loads finished with. It's been nice today though a cardi needed at night. Not noticed any more pushiness - it's quiet in Gumbet now but you'll have a great time again I'm sure.

Jak xx

[maz]

Hi jak, cor lucky u - have u been there since may? I'm staying at same hotel turihan so I'll b on beach most days - weather permitting of course! U won't b able to miss me as I'll bring my 2 favorite parrot towels - one for my imaginary husband! ;-D
Might take u up on offer of a book or 2 thou as it'll save me bringing loads wiv me
Cu next week
Maz
X

[maz]

Thanks for the weather link cuk, very informative! Still hotter than here, so I'll pack light!??
Prob still bring loads of items I didn't wear, but I'll try! ;-))
Cu next week - can't wait!

[Lucid]

funny you should mention this
we were in sarigerme yesterday and happened to see the market on
GOD it was horrid. the worst market experience i have EVER had in my yrs here. i will never go back there.
what a load of tack and what a load of rude sellers soooo totally in your face (also to Hub whos clearly Turkish)
i have never felt that hassled in anypart of Turkey and i thought the seller rude and even tried to touch you. One lady stopped me in my tracks and grabbed my hand. i really was angry but hub said to cool off n let it go.
I can understand its end of season and they are desperate but they seemed it and aggressive.
whats worse the stuff on sale was horrid tack probably made in china.
stay clear i say but having said that by the look of many there it suited them to the ground.
as for other areas im cant say i have noticed much hassle.
bars i dont know we stay clear. Our patch is more about locals & i havent been hassled there.
Good idea about the ring thing someone mentioned & also have a price in your mind for things once you get an idea on the average.
Dont get involved in conversations if you really just mean no i dont want. A look says more here than words..as once you get chatting most Turks will want to talk even more! not always a bad thing! but in some contexts not ideal
have a nice holiday

Edited by Lucid, 11 October 2010 - 02:19 PM.