Alanya: The Jewel of the Turkish Riviera

• HelloMerhaba
  [Mer-ha-ba]
• GoodbyeHoşça kal
  [Hosh-cha kal]
• YesEvet
  [Eh-vet]
• NoHayır
  [Ha-yuhr]
• Please/You're welcomeLütfen
  [Loot-fen]
• Thank youTeşekkür ederim
  [Te-shek-kur ed-er-im]
• Excuse me/SorryÖzür dilerim
  [O-zur di-ler-im]
• How are you?Nasılsınız?
  [Na-suhl-suh-nuhz]
• Fine. And you?İyiyim. Ya siz?
  [Ee-yee-yim. Ya siz?]
• Do you speak English?İngilizce konuşuyor musunuz?
  [Ing-ee-leez-je ko-noo-shu-yor mus-oo-nooz]
• I don't understandAnlamıyorum
  [An-la-muh-yor-um]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMenüyü görmek istiyorum, lütfen
  [Men-oo-yu germ-ek is-tee-yor-um, loot-fen]
• I don't eat meatBen et yemem
  [Ben et ye-mem]
• Cheers!Şerefe!
  [She-re-fe]
• I would like to pay, pleaseÖdemek istiyorum, lütfen
  [O-de-mek is-tee-yor-um, loot-fen]

• Help!Yardım!
  [Yar-duhm]
• Go away!Uzaklaş!
  [Oo-zak-lash]
• Call the Police!Polisi arayın!
  [Po-lee-see ah-rah-yuhn]
• Call a doctor!Bir doktor çağırın!
  [Beer dok-tor cha-ee-run]
• I'm lostKayboldum
  [Kay-bol-doom]
• I'm illHastayım
  [Has-tah-yum]

• I'd like to buy...Satın almak istiyorum...
  [Sat-uhn al-mak is-tee-yor-um]
• I'm just lookingSadece bakıyorum
  [Sah-de-je ba-ku-yor-um]
• How much is it?Ne kadar?
  [Neh ka-dar]
• That's too expensiveBu çok pahalı
  [Boo chok pa-ha-luh]
• Can you lower the price?Fiyatı indirebilir misiniz?
  [Fee-yat-uh in-de-re-bee-lir mee-see-neez]

• What time is it?Saat kaç?
  [Sa-at kach]
• It's one o'clockSaat bir
  [Sa-at beer]
• Half past (10)Saat on buçuk
  [Sa-at on boo-chuk]
• MorningSabah
  [Sa-bah]
• AfternoonÖğleden sonra
  [O-le-den ah-sor-ah]
• EveningAkşam
  [Ak-sham]
• YesterdayDün
  [Doon]
• TodayBugün
  [Boo-goon]
• TomorrowYarın
  [Yar-uhn]
• 1Bir
  [Beer]
• 2İki
  [Ee-kee]
• 3Üç
  [Ooch]
• 4Dört
  [Dort]
• 5Beş
  [Besh]
• 6Altı
  [Al-tuh]
• 7Yedi
  [Yeh-dee]
• 8Sekiz
  [Se-kiz]
• 9Dokuz
  [Do-kooz]
• 10On
  [On]

• Where's a/the...?...nerede?
  [Ne-reh-deh]
• What's the address?Adres nedir?
  [Ah-dres neh-deer]
• Can you show me (on the map)?(Haritada) gösterebilir misiniz?
  [(Ha-ree-ta-da) ger-ste-re-bee-leer mee-see-neez]
• When's the next (bus)?Sonraki (otobüs) ne zaman?
  [Son-rah-kee (o-to-boo-s) neh za-man]
• A ticket (to ....)Bir bilet (....'e)
  [Beer bee-let (....'e)]

Alanya, originally known as Coracesium, has a rich history dating back to the Paleolithic era. Archaeological findings suggest human presence in the area as early as the Upper Paleolithic period. The region was later inhabited by the Hittites around 2000 BCE. It became a significant location due to its strategic position on the Mediterranean coast, serving as a haven for maritime trade and defense.

During the 4th century BCE, Alanya came under the influence of Greek culture. It was during this period that the city began to be known as Coracesium. The city-state was an important outpost for the Seleucid Empire. The remnants of Hellenistic architecture and fortifications are still evident in the region, showcasing the strategic military importance of Alanya during this era.

In 67 BCE, the Roman general Pompey the Great incorporated Alanya into the Roman Empire after defeating the Cilician pirates who had been using the city as a stronghold. Under Roman rule, the city flourished as a center of commerce and culture. During the Byzantine period, Alanya continued to thrive and was fortified further to protect against Arab raids. The Byzantine castle, built on the peninsula, is a testament to this era's architectural and military advancements.

In the 13th century, Alanya was conquered by the Seljuk Turks under the leadership of Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad I. He renamed the city Alaiye in his honor and established it as a winter residence. This period marked significant architectural and cultural development in Alanya. The Red Tower (Kızıl Kule), Alanya Castle, and the Shipyard (Tersane) are some of the iconic structures from the Seljuk period that have survived to this day.

Alanya became part of the Ottoman Empire in the late 15th century. The Ottomans maintained and expanded the existing fortifications, ensuring the city remained an important military and administrative center. During this period, Alanya also became known for its agricultural produce, particularly citrus fruits and bananas, which were exported throughout the empire.

In the 20th century, Alanya transformed from a quiet coastal town into a popular tourist destination. The city’s historical landmarks, scenic beaches, and vibrant culture have attracted visitors from around the world. Modern Alanya seamlessly blends its rich historical heritage with contemporary amenities, offering a unique experience for all who visit.

Alanya is accessible by air, land, and sea. The nearest airport is Gazipaşa-Alanya Airport (GZP), located approximately 40 kilometers from the city center. Alternatively, Antalya Airport (AYT) is about 130 kilometers away and offers more international flights. From either airport, you can take a shuttle bus, taxi, or rent a car to reach Alanya. Buses and coaches also connect Alanya with major Turkish cities like Istanbul and Ankara. Additionally, Alanya has a cruise port for those arriving by sea.

Alanya has a well-developed public transportation system including buses and dolmuş (shared minibuses), which are affordable and frequent. Taxis are also readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked via phone. Car rentals are another option for exploring the surrounding areas. For a more local experience, consider renting a scooter or bike, especially for short distances. The city center is pedestrian-friendly, making walking a viable option for exploring key attractions.

The official currency in Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Alanya. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, particularly for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city, and currency exchange offices offer competitive rates. Always inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage.

Alanya is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas such as markets and tourist attractions. Neighborhoods like Mahmutlar have seen occasional reports of minor crimes targeting tourists, so it's best to stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone late at night in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas. Keep your belongings secure and use hotel safes for valuables.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for medical assistance, fire, or police services. Alanya has several hospitals and clinics, including Alanya State Hospital and private healthcare facilities like Baskent University Alanya Hospital. Pharmacies are widespread and can provide over-the-counter medications. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and other unforeseen situations.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do show respect for local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes before entering mosques and dress appropriately. Public Transport: Do stand up for elderly passengers and give up your seat if needed. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a handshake. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and be open to new culinary experiences. Don't refuse food or drink offered by locals, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Alanya like a local, visit the weekly markets (pazars) where you can purchase fresh produce, spices, and handmade goods. Engage with locals, many of whom are friendly and eager to share stories about the area's rich history. Don't miss the chance to explore the Alanya Castle and the Red Tower for stunning panoramic views. For a unique experience, take a boat tour along the coastline or a jeep safari into the Taurus Mountains. Also, try the local cuisine at traditional restaurants, known as 'lokantas', for an authentic taste of Turkish food.