Everyday Observations from a Ukrainian Living in Turkey
Victoria Verikovska, a Ukrainian based in Istanbul, has shared her insights on what it’s like to live in Turkey, highlighting the contrast between daily life and the tourist experience. She points out that not all parts of Istanbul are modern; some neighborhoods have a deeply religious character. This can shape how foreigners are perceived, as
“you will catch curious looks from men and judgmental stares from women, especially those who are covered. And this can happen anywhere,”Victoria explains.
Transportation Struggles and Financial Pitfalls
Victoria also draws attention to the city’s transportation challenges. Traffic jams are widespread, and a one-way commute can sometimes take up to two hours. She advises relying on public transit to cut down travel time.
Another key issue is how foreigners are treated financially.
“What costs locals 100 lira might be quoted to you as 200. That happens, and there’s no escaping it. Renting an apartment will also cost you more,”Verikovska notes.
Beyond her story, the account also mentions Khrystyna, a Ukrainian living in the United States, who reported that the country’s annual healthcare spending reaches $5.3 trillion, nearly 18% of U.S. GDP. Another Ukrainian, Valentyna, has been residing in Germany for an extended period, though her views were not explored in detail. These testimonies reflect the diverse experiences of Ukrainians abroad and their perspectives on everyday life in different countries.
The experiences of Ukrainians living overseas help shed light on the cultural and social differences between nations. It’s important to recognize that each country has its own unique traits, which can significantly affect the daily lives of foreigners. From navigating local customs to dealing with financial disparities, all these factors play a major role in adapting to a new environment. Specifically, Victoria Verikovska’s observations can be valuable for anyone planning to stay in Turkey, as they reveal the real challenges foreigners may encounter.
As Victoria Verikovska shares her experiences, it's clear that living abroad comes with its own set of challenges and cultural nuances. Similarly, another Ukrainian woman, after spending several years in Warsaw, has highlighted the city's major drawbacks. To explore her insights and understand the broader context of Ukrainian expatriates' lives, you can read more about her perspective on the issues faced in Poland here.