411 on Adana; Perspective from a fella foreigner.

What is it like to live in Adana? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Personally, I look at Adana different perse to other cities in Turkey. I find it an almost perfect mixture of not being to crowded as well as having enough personification t understand the city. I love the city, it brings me everything I thought of hoe a city would be and more. of course I would recommend the city, I mean, who wouldn't want to see and experience the colour customs of the Turks? From buildings to homes, and even to bazars, Its a wonderful experience in Adana!

What is the student lifestyle like in Adana?

I am a foreigner who goes full time to Cag University, and I know at Cag I enjoy it very much. I study International Relations and enjoy the relations I have with my classmates and teachers. It isn't a full-out collage/university experience, but it has its home-like qaulities to it which gives its charm for me.

How much does it cost to live in Adana?

Honestly, this depends on what your accommodations and utilities are, going off from that you would add atleast 100-200 tl extra alone for personal use.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Adana? Is there any advice you can give?

Yes and No, Yes in the fact that certain homes and dorms are on a first come first serve basis. If you don't try to reserve one for yourself atleast a month or two before it may be hard. But at the same time you can find room-mates, other dorms, hotels -type apartments, and regular aparments for rent. Of course this is about a 200 tl starting point ( if you find a room-mate) and can go up to 1000 tl.

The best advice I can give is see what accommodations your school gives if you are coming to either Cag or Cukurova University.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Adana is known greatly for Adana Kebap, I can honestly say this is really the best place to try kebap at, because any other city in Turkey I have gone to never tasted anywhere close. Adana just has the special amount of season mixed I believe. Another local delicacy is called Sirdan, I never have ate this, but this is a real treat for a lot of the locals, and if you can get past the way it looks, everyone tells me that it tastes splendid. My favorite home style food is Icli kofte, which is a wonderfully done as well as Cig kofte, which goes heavenly with kebap.

There are two types of drinks that I believe came from Adana. One of them is called salgam, which can only be found in Adana. It is a drink made from Turnips. Its has a unique taste that sets it aside from any other drinks I have tastes before. Another drink that is common in Adana is Muzlu sut, I haven't had this outside of Adana, but its a type of blended drink with milk, ice, and banana, which is so complementing in the summer heat. I find it delicious if you are looking to find a break from coffee or tea. 

Turkish foods in general though, I find very delicious and very well spiced. Of course there are seasonal foods and drinks, which I believe makes Turkish foods very unique and wonderful. Its definately worth trying! So don't be afraid to try any of the foods while you are here rahter if you are an erasmus student or just a tourist!

What places would you recommend visiting in Adana?

It really depends on what you are interested personall. There are natural spots, such as Cukurova's university background, Pozanti, a region within Adana that is full with nothing but nature, along with Kariasali. If you are interested in history, you can find many museums, and historical sites, such as the roman bridge in  Adana and close by city in Tarsus and Mersin.  

Is it good to eat out in Adana? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

I believe that Adana has a lot of wonderful foods to eat out at. But I think a lot of the homemade foods resturants and shops would be much better than always going to a cafe. Plus much cheaper. But my favourite spots is the Manti shop, Katik, and most homemade shops ( ev yemekler) 

Is the nightlife good in Adana? Where is good to go?

I honestly don't believe it is good in Adana. Yes you can go to bars and listen to live music at times, but there is now where to dance. The only place where you can dance at is called "Latino." But if you don't know how to salsa dance, its pointless to go. But if you are just looking for a place to sit down and drink a cup of beer with some friends, then of course you can. The night is yours to seize!

What advice would you give future students headed to Adana?

I would say for girls to be very careful while living here. But otther than this, just make sure to pack your camera and your adventure bag because your are looking for a fun time!