Experience in Ankara by a local, Turkey by bilge sena

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

Ankara is the capital city of Turkey however it is not as fun as Istanbul. The cultural activities are not varied. The people are focused to work or study and there is no time for fun so it is a bit boring. But, it is the people who makes the city better, people here are friendly so they tolerate the ugly face of this city.

What is the student lifestyle like in Ankara?

We mostly study, when we stop there are local bars and pubs to relax and in my university, METU, there are cultural activities and natural areas for both recreational activities and sports.

How much does it cost to live in Ankara?

I spend each month nearly 1300 liras (about 200€) for food, activities, transportation and clothes.

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

No there are apartments around the universities and there are cheaper accommodation facilities away from the universities which require mostly an extra transportation vehicle, with an extra time mostly around 30 minutes

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

We have homemade foods like vegetables and meats that anyone can find them in local restaurants. Also there are kebabs, meatballs, gözleme, traditional Turkish food. Also every corner you can find hamburgers, cafes that have classic foods with chickens and vegetables, italian food, asian food. My favourote dish is a traditional turkish soup "arabaşı" that you cannot find in restaurants.

What places would you recommend visiting in Ankara?

METU of course, Anıtkabir that is our most beloved saviour Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's mausoleum, oldtown of Ankara near that is Ulus district with the castle however the place is not very safe so do not go there alone because I wont.

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

Yes there are many options to eat. I do not do sports:)

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

There are some clubs but I have no idea because I am a home bird

What advice would you give future students heading to Ankara?

The place is a bit ugly, probably you will not like it so try to have good friends which make the space more beautiful.