Expat Loneliness and How to Enjoy Life in Turkey

Moving to a new country is exciting, eye-opening, and full of promise. But if you're living in Turkey as an expat, you may also know the quieter, heavier side of it: loneliness. It’s one of the most common—and least talked about—parts of the expat journey.Let’s be honest: starting over in a new place isn’t always Instagram-perfect. It can feel isolating at times. Whether it’s the language barrier, missing old routines, or simply the absence of familiar faces, feeling lonely is completely normal But here’s the good news: you’re not alone in this feeling—and Turkey offers so much warmth, connection, and joy once you open the right doors.

Why Loneliness Happens to Expats

Even if you’ve landed your dream job or moved into a cozy flat in Istanbul, Ankara, or a beautiful Aegean coastal town, feelings of loneliness can still find their way in. This emotional gap doesn’t necessarily mean something is wrong—it’s a natural part of adjusting to life in a new country. Often, it comes from the absence of a close social circle; the people who once made your daily life feel grounded are now miles away. The cultural and language barriers can make even simple tasks feel isolating, leaving you feeling like an outsider in everyday situations. You might find yourself missing the comfort of your home country—familiar foods, holidays, conversations, or even small rituals that once gave you a sense of belonging. And while you may meet many people, forming deep, meaningful friendships takes time, which can add to the sense of emotional distance.

This period of transition can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that it is temporary. With patience, openness, and a little courage, life in Turkey can evolve into something truly joyful, fulfilling, and deeply connected.

Why Turkey Is a Fantastic Destination for Reconnection

What's great about residing in Turkey? Individuals. The values of community, hospitality, and sincere connection are fundamental to Turkish culture. You'll be shocked to learn how easily strangers may become friends once you enter it.

You'll observe that:

• In addition to saying hello, neighbors may bring you a tray of food.
• People in the area are interested and willing to assist you practice your Turkish.
• Teahouses and cafés are more than just coffee shops; they are gathering spots for discourse.
• To put it briefly, Turkey has a strong "come as you are" mentality. All you have to do is be open; perfection is not necessary.

Ways to Beat Loneliness and Have Fun in Turkey

1. Enroll in Turkish classes or language exchanges

Gaining proficiency in the language makes you feel more certain and connected. Additionally, language gatherings frequently include laughter and wonderful companionship.

2. Participate in workshops or cultural events

There's always something going on, whether it's folk dancing, ceramic art, or traditional culinary workshops, and it's a terrific opportunity to meet both locals and other foreigners.

3. Visit Local Markets, Parks, and Cafés

Public life in Turkey takes place outside. You may more easily connect with the rhythm of the culture and the people when you spend time in open, communal areas.

4. Utilize International Communities

There are busy expat Facebook groups, WhatsApp chats, and frequent get-togethers in places like Istanbul, Izmir, and Antalya. Many others are searching for a connection, just like you, so don't be afraid to contact out.

5. Accustom Yourself to Turkish Tea Time

Tea, or Çay, is more than just a beverage; it's a call to stop and converse. Accepting a glass of tea can result in meaningful discussions, the formation of new connections, and an appreciation for the people who are most important in Turkish culture.

6. The Secret: Say “Yes” More Often

When you're feeling lonely, it’s easy to retreat. But often, joy lies just outside your comfort zone. So if someone invites you to dinner, a village wedding, a hike, or even just a walk—say yes. These small moments can lead to real connections and stories you'll carry for life.

Things I Would Like to Have Known Before Relocating to Turkey

There is always a mix of excitement and uncertainty when relocating to a new nation. Turkey has the ability to surprise you in the finest ways, whether you're there for business, romance, or adventure. Many foreigners say they wish they had understood the following before moving here:

People speak to strangers with the utmost kindness.

Don't be shocked if someone starts a conversation with you when you're drinking your tea in a park, on a dolmuş (minibus), or standing in line at the market. Speaking with a stranger is commonplace among Turks, who are renowned for their warmth and curiosity. You'll grow accustomed to it and perhaps begin to like it.

Kindness is your best ally, but bureaucracy may be slow.

The paperwork, which includes everything from power bills to residency licenses, might seem endless at times. However, a smile and patience will get you far. Even if you don't speak much Turkish, people will often go out of their way to assist.

Although it seems like a great obstacle at first, the language barrier turns into a lovely bridge.

During your first few weeks, you may feel confused in translation, but you will eventually learn key phrases, and others will value every effort you make. Your experience can be completely changed by learning even a little Turkish.

Breakfast will become your favorite food, and you won't want to eat it again.

A Turkish breakfast is a celebration rather than merely a meal. It becomes a celebration that can go on for hours, complete with bread, cheeses, olives, jams, eggs, and unending tea. You'll want it long after you've left Turkey.

Feeling homesick is normal, but you're not the only one.

You'll miss everything you know on some days. That is typical. Discovering local meetings, expat groups, or simply strolling through a new neighborhood can have a significant impact.

Hidden Gems: Places That Feel Like Home

Finding locations that provide solace, camaraderie, and a feeling of community might occasionally be the best way to combat loneliness. Turkey has many hidden gems that can help you feel rooted, whether you're looking for a peaceful setting or a welcoming community.

• Istanbul's Moda Sahili
  This seaside area in Kadıköy, which is on the Asian side, is ideal for leisurely strolls. People can be seen playing guitar with pals, drinking tea from thermoses, or reading books on the grass. It might be kind of an emotional reset to watch the sunset over the Bosphorus here.
• Antalya's Çıralı
  This tranquil village, nestled between the sea and the mountains, is a refuge for anyone seeking to get away from the bustle of the city. With its peaceful beach, eco-friendly pensions, and laid-back atmosphere, Çıralı is the kind of place that says, “Take a breath, you're okay.”
• Ankara's ODTÜ Forest
  This woodland area close to the Middle East Technical University is perfect for those yearning for nature if they live in the metropolis. It's the ideal place for blogging, hiking, or simply decompressing because of the long trails, wide skies, and bird sounds.
• A Second-Hand Book Café (Anywhere!)
  In cities like Izmir, Eskişehir, and Istanbul, you'll find cozy cafés that double as bookshops. Many of them have mismatched chairs, gentle music, and the smell of old pages and fresh coffee. You can sit alone and still feel surrounded by warmth.
• A Local Bazaar in Your Neighborhood
  Even if you don’t need anything, wandering through your local open-air market can bring surprising joy. The colors, the conversations, the smells of spices and fresh produce—all of it is vibrantly alive. And every “Kolay gelsin” from a seller reminds you: you belong here, too.

Turkish Words That Make You Feel Welcome

Particularly in Turkey, where even the most basic phrases convey warmth, friendliness, and welcome, language has a unique kind of charm. You can feel more connected and valued in daily life if you know a couple of these expressions.

The phrase "Hoş geldiniz" means “You are welcome.”

As soon as you enter a store, a friend's house, or even a tiny café, you'll hear this expression. Although it means "welcome," it sounds more intimate, as if someone is saying, "We're glad you're here."

“Kolay gelsin” – May your work be easy.

You can say this to anyone working: shopkeepers, delivery drivers, people at the market. It’s a small act of kindness that shows respect and empathy. You’ll be surprised how often you’ll hear it—and how good it feels to say it.

“Ellerinize sağlık” – Bless your hands.

Use this to compliment someone who has cooked or made something for you. It’s sincere and deeply appreciated. It’s more than “thank you”—it’s gratitude wrapped in culture.

“İyi ki geldin” – I’m so glad you came.

This one goes beyond polite—it’s personal. Friends might say this when you arrive at their home, and it speaks directly to your heart. It’s a way of saying: “Your presence means something.”

Real Stories from Expats in Turkey

Sometimes, the best way to feel less alone is to hear from others who have been in your shoes. Here are a few real (or inspired-by-real-life) stories from expats who moved to Turkey and found their way—through moments of confusion, laughter, and connection.

“When I first moved to Izmir, I didn’t know a single word of Turkish. One day at a bakery, I accidentally ordered six loaves of bread instead of one. The woman behind the counter laughed, corrected me gently, and insisted I take only one—for free. That was the moment I realized I didn’t need perfect language skills to feel welcome here.”

— Lucas, France

“I felt incredibly alone during my first few months in Ankara. Then one evening, my neighbor knocked on the door and handed me a plate of homemade börek. We couldn’t really communicate, but we sat together, drank tea, and smiled a lot. It reminded me that kindness is universal.”

— Amira, Morocco

“I came to Istanbul for work and thought it would be easy to make friends—but it wasn’t. Then I joined a local language exchange group, and everything changed. Now I meet people every week, we share food, culture, and even silly grammar mistakes.”

— Daniel, UK

These stories are a reminder: even if you feel lost at first, connection often comes in the most unexpected ways. And in Turkey, you’ll quickly learn that a small act of kindness, a shared meal, or a simple cup of tea can open doors to deep, lasting friendships.

Concluding remarks

Although living abroad isn't always simple, it's always an opportunity to develop, think, and rediscover who you are. If you allow it, Turkey's kind people, rich culture, and lively social scene have a wonderful way of making you feel at home.

So, leave. Go to the street cart and order that simit. Even if the Turkish is broken, ask for instructions in that language. Take that tea, please. And observe how your universe grows gradually, day by day.

You don't have to stay in a story where loneliness is a part of the beginning.