Ramadan begins

Muslims in Turkey celebrate the start of the holy month of Ramadan Thursday.

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Turkey to celebrate independence day

Thursday August 30 is Turkey’s independence day. Government offices, banks, schools and many businesses will be closed for the day.

AK Party is re-elected

Turkish voters re-elect the Justice and Development Party (AKP) Sunday. With almost 47% of the overall vote it is estimated that AKP will hold 341 seats in parliament.

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Turkey prepares for general elections

Turkish political parties are stepping up the heat with less than one week until general elections. Over 42 million people are expected to show up at the polls Sunday.

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Public Holiday announced due to extreme heat

Istanbul, Izmir and Bursa announce a public holiday for people with chronic illnesses, disabilities or pregnancy for Tuesday and Wednesday because of the heat.

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Large May Day demonstration expected Tuesday

Many Turkish labor unions and workers are expected to hold large demonstrations Tuesday in honor of International Workers’ Day (May Day).

Buying a home is next to impossible for most Turks

Most people in Turkey cannot afford to buy a home. The average monthly loan payment is 1800 YTL, which is higher than 80% of the population’s monthly income.

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New fast ferry arrives in Istanbul

The first of two ferryboats that will travel between Istanbul and Bursa in 45 minutes arrives in Turkey. The ferry can hold 1200 passengers and 225 vehicles.

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Turkey celebrates children’s day

Schools, government offices and many private companies will be closed Monday April 23 in honor of Children’s Day.

Turkey’s population smaller than estimated

With Turkey’s census almost completed, the population is smaller than estimated. Estimates put the population around 73 million but it seems closer to 65 million.

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