Turkey is geographically, politically and officially part of Europe and Asia. The smaller northwestern portion (Thrace) is part of Europe, while the larger portion (Anatolia) is part of Asia with Istanbul being situated between the two, along the banks of the river Bosphorus.

The population is 70 million and the official language is Turkish with Kurdish and Arabic also spoken. The currency is Turkish Lira. Turkey has many lake and mountain regions but most people visit for the beaches - the most popular resorts are Antalya, Kusadasi, Bodrum and Gumbet.

The cultural attractions and shopping in Istanbul make it popular for short breaks and it is also possible to visit the ancient sites of Troy and Ephesus from the city.

Turkey’s climate is different depending on what region you are in.  The Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea region are temperate Mediterranean climate with hot dry summers and cold wet winters.

The the coast along the Black Sea has an Oceanic climate which is warm but wet summers and colder and wetter winters.

Bus
Buses are the main form of transportation in Turkey, very easy to use, economical and usually comfortable. The best bus companies are Ulusoy, Varan, Kamil Koc and Pumukkale. Ulusoy is the most expensive and Pumukkale the cheapest. There are many other companies, which cover different parts of the country. If you plan to take a long journey it is advisable to take an overnight bus. Bear in mind that while getting a bus in Istanbul the modern green buses are for commuters with tokens only and the old orange buses are for everybody else. You can purchase a ticket from the cashier onboard.

Train
The train does not cover as many cities or tourist destinations as the bus and is slower. Turkish Railways (TCDD) operates passenger trains all over the country and has sleeping cars, couchettes and restaurants and some are air-conditioned. Fares are comparatively low, but the express trains are more expensive. Discounts of 20% are available for students (though a Turkish student card may be required), groups, round-trips and passengers over 60. Children travel free under seven. All tickets can be purchased through the TCDD offices at railway stations and TCDD-appointed agents.

Car
Turkey has a widespread and well-developed road system with many main and secondary roads linking the country including major towns, cities and the popular tourist destinations. A highway is opened between Istanbul and Ankara, as well as some other highway sections in different regions of Turkey. The three main roads, which lead to Turkey from Europe and also Iran and Iraq, are called the E80, E90 and Trans European Motorway (TEM).

The traffic is generally heavy in the big cities and on major roads. Diving in Turkey in is usually straightforward. You drive on the right in Turkey and the Highway Code is the same as all other European countries.

There are plenty of car rental companies in Turkey. The Turkish authorities are stringent but the requirements are not difficult, so you will need a driving license with an International Driving Permit.