Maryann

Submitted by melungeongirl (Turkey), Apr 19, 2007 at 06:39

Hi Maryann, I read your other post so I will respond to it also. First let me say that since he is a career officer it will probably be easier for him because they will know he cant move to the US.That is if the Turkish army allows him to take leave. But I really dont think you should have a problem.

Some things you should know about living in Turkey. First of all you said youre friendly, so am I. but in turkey you must tone it down ok. You can not walk down the street and smile or say hi to any man you do not know. You shouldn't even look another man in the eye.

Another thing I found out after doing it. I was with my boyfriend eating dinner at friends and wanted his attention but didn't want our host to know. So I gently nudged his foot under the table with mine. Never ever do this. He got very upset and I couldn't understand why. In Turkey this is considered very disrespectful. There are alot of things we do in America that to Turkish people is considered rude ,so if I were you I would just ask your boyfriend a lot about this subject before you come to Turkey.

Also ask him exactly in detail what he expects from you once youre in Turkey. And I mean details. dont let him get away with saying the normal things wives do, because to you and I what a normal thing wives do is very different then what wives are expected to do in Turkey. Also, you said you are christian and though Turks are not the same as Arabic people they are still muslims.

I was told 'oh Turkey is more westernized, more tolerant'. this is true in some ways but again, they are still muslims. Where does your boyfriend want to move you to in Turkey? I dont want to scare you, but do lots of research before you come here. I know as Americans our knowledge of anything outside of the US is limited and this should really change. There is a lot more I would like to say, but will refrain from saying it in this forum. If you have any more questions or would like me to elaborate you can give me your email

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