Experience in Ankara, Turkey by Emre

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

Ankara is the capital city of Turkey, meaning a city of crowdness. There are different people and cultures. It is hot in summer like 35 degrees but cold in winter utmostly like -20 but mostly around 5 and -10. The weather can change immediately in any seasons. Do not forget to take your coat before leaving home in June :)

What is the student lifestyle like in Ankara?

This city is called in Turkey ''the city of officers'' At night, you may not see a lot of people wandering outside but pretty much, the number of students is very high so it means that there are a lot of cafes to be visited. ''Bahçelievler 7.cadde'' Kızılay Konur Sokak'' and ''Tunalı Hilmi Cadddesi'' are very popular for students. but particulary at the first two of them, you almost cannot see people whose ages are over thirty. The cheapests are located in these two. There parks to socialize such as ''Seğmenler Parkı'' and ''Göksu Parkı'' and what is located in the very center of the city is probably ''Geçlik Parkı''

How much does it cost to live in Ankara?

As I stated above, this city is called the city of officers thus, the prices are a bit high. But you can find flats to rent in '' Kolej'' or '' Kurtuluş'' and these places are very close to metro stations. Rent prices are about 600-650 TL corresponding with 200-230 Euros per month. but of course you can share the flat with your friends if you make an agreement with the flat owner. Do not forget that Wifi, gas, electricity bills are paid by the tenats.

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

If you read the walls carefully while in streets, you can happen to see flats offered by the students, who have hiree the flat and want a friend to share the bills.

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

Prices based on food can be afforded by any students. It depends on the cafes.

What places would you recommend visiting in Ankara?

Anıtkabir (Atatürk's grave, the founder of the republic of Turkey, ), Bahçelievler, Eymir and Mogan Gölü (Lake) Gordion in Polatlı, one of the antique cities. Kızılcahamam in the north and Hamamönü.

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

It is. My favourite places are Nadas Cafe & Pub in Konur Sokak (street). And Ot Cafe, and may be Nedjima.

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

İt is good actually. There are places like Jolly Joker, Passage, which are night clubs.

What advice would you give future students headed to Ankara?

The Tukish do not know English very well. I recommend you to bring a Turkish Dictionary or memorize some sentences beforehand which you think useful.