Turkey is located adjacent to the Balkans, Caucasus, Middle East, and Eastern Mediterranean. The total area of the country is larger than that of any European state, and the population is bigger, too. The Black Sea, the Meditterranean Sea, and the Aegan Sea wash the shores of Turkey on three sides.

The Turkish Republic has a rich culture with many aspects, from literature and music to food and architecture. The country’s literary tradition dates back about 1300 years. During the Ottoman era, it was greatly influenced by Persian and Arabic literature. Turkey is also homeland of Orhan Pamuk, winner of the 2006 Nobel Prize in Literature.

A meeting point for Eastern Europe and Western Asia, modern Turkey shows a desire to adopt parts of Western lifestyle while always keeping in touch with their traditions and historical values. The Turks are welcoming to foreigners who show respect to their history and ways of life.

The coastal areas alongside the Mediterranean shores have a temperate climate. The summers are hot and arid, and the winters are cold and wet. In the Black Sea region, expect cooler summers, but warmer winters. In the central plateau region, expect especially severe winters.

The most beautiful natural areas to visit are the Ayder plateau, which some compare to the Swiss Alps, and the region of Cappadocia with its stunning canyons and volcanic peaks.

Genel Sağlık Sigortası, or GSS, is a state-induced countrywide healthcare insurance system, compulsory for local residents. Enrolling for GSS program gets you free medical treatment at public hospitals. The program also extends to illnesses and workplace injuries, childbirth, cosmetical surgery and more.

For foreign visitors, insurance is also a-must. Numerous agencies offering a wide range of health insurance plans are at your service here. For a monthly fee, you will be guaranteed to have free access to a number of pre-listed health services.

Kindergartens

The monthly fees for state kindergartens are quite moderate, about $48 per kid. However, foreigners cannot place a child there for the entire day: parents need to select a time, from morning till afternoon or from afternoon till evening. This restriction holds true even if both parents have a residence permit. Also, the number of places is limited, so you need to sign up in advance.

Private kindergartens offer better options and run higher costs, from 70 to 100 dollars per month. They accept children from 2 to 6 years old. English-based tuition is possible. Private kindergartens usually provide better conditions for the kids, like quality nourishment and a wider choice of toys or optional courses.

Schools

Turkish school cycle counts 12 years, which are compulsory for everyone. Every citizen has a right for free school education. In state schools, the main teaching language is Turkish. There are, however, specially licensed or foreign schools offering tuition in English, German, or other languages.

State schools do not provide free Turkish courses, yet the teachers are supportive of newcomers. It is recommended to discuss child’s needs with the school’s administration before you sign up your kid for classes.