The Turkish word for breakfast, "kahvaltı," literally means "before coffee." In Turkish culture, coffee is so significant that the first meal of the day is named after it. The tradition began in the Ottoman era when people would eat something light to prepare their stomachs before drinking coffee. This shows just how deeply embedded coffee is in Turkish daily life—even breakfast revolves around it!

Although tea is now one of the most consumed beverages in Turkey, this was not always the case. It wasn't until the 20th century that tea became widespread, thanks to the cultivation efforts in the Black Sea region. Today, Turkey is one of the largest consumers of tea in the world, with tea being an integral part of social gatherings and daily conversations. Turkish tea is more than just a drink—it's a symbol of hospitality and community.

Turkish coffee is not just famous for its rich taste and unique preparation but also for the tradition of fortune-telling. After drinking the coffee, the leftover grounds at the bottom of the cup are used to predict the future in a practice known as "coffee fortune-telling." This centuries-old tradition adds a mystical and fun element to the coffee-drinking experience, making Turkish coffee truly one of a kind.

The word "turquoise" actually originates from the French word for "Turkish." This beautiful color was named after the Turkish people because of the precious turquoise stones that were traded through Turkey to Europe. In Turkish culture, turquoise represents protection, health, and serenity. It’s no wonder that this color has become a symbol of elegance and beauty worldwide.

In Turkish culture, the "nazar boncuğu," or evil eye bead, is believed to protect against negative energy and bad luck. This ancient tradition dates back thousands of years and is still widely practiced today. The blue eye-shaped amulet is often seen hanging in homes, cars, and even worn as jewelry. It is believed that the bead absorbs the negative energy directed towards its owner, keeping them safe from harm. Giving a nazar boncuğu as a gift is a way to show love and care, protecting the recipient from all forms of evil

Turkish Delight, known as "lokum" in Turkish, is a centuries-old sweet that dates back to the Ottoman Empire. Believed to have been developed in the 15th century within the kitchens of the Ottoman sultans, lokum was often served alongside Turkish coffee. The name "lokum" comes from the Arabic phrase "rahat-ul hulkum," which means "comfort for the throat." Surprisingly, Turkish Delight became popular in Europe during the reign of Queen Victoria, where it was cherished by the British aristocracy. Today, lokum remains a beloved treat in Turkey, symbolizing the warmth and hospitality of Turkish culture.