Celebrating Halloween Like a Local

Happy Halloween to those of you celebrating!

Here in Turkey, it's not a big deal. I don't think the little ones will be trick-or-treating, especially when most of the homes are apartments, however I may be pleasantly surprised tonight, seeing them in costume which was such a highlight from my childhood.

Instead of Halloween, there were big celebrations for Turkey's Republic Day on Tuesday - think of their version of July 1 for Canada and July 4 for USA. There were parades, a torch procession from the beach into the city and a massive concert in the main square with great music, a fantastic band, and a really positive atmosphere. It was refreshing to enjoy a concert without worrying about people being sloppy and drunk in the crowd as drinking isn’t as much of a focus because of religion and heavy taxes. There’s actually a rule that alcohol can’t be sold within a certain distance from a Mosque or school.

The end of the month also meant I said goodbye to my roommate, whom I met at a nomad festival earlier this year. She's off on her own adventure, while I'm staying in Antalya for another month (did I mention it’s the month of my birthday too). I had to move my belongings to a new apartment, but wait for cleaning while I spend my day at a coworking space. Does anyone else get that feeling when their belongings aren't in their usual place or don’t have a proper home / organization yet? It's like my brain can't function properly!

My main goal in the next few days will be to find a new rhythm in a new neighbourhood, with new roomies and a new apartment. I'm also planning ahead / figuring out how to make the most of this extended summer, with beautiful weather and highs of 27℃.

If you have any questions about living in Turkey, ask them on Monday's Group Call. Such a great way to lead into deeper conversations and speak with like minded people about travel for the new year --> come say hi​.