From Çay to Kolonya: When Türkiye Starts to Feel Like Home

If you’ve ever found yourself craving ayran in the middle of a summer heatwave or asking a stranger for kolonya like it’s the most natural thing in the world, you’re not alone. For many Africans living in or visiting Turkey especially in vibrant, ever-moving Istanbul it starts slowly. One çay (tea) at a time. One friendly “abla” or “abi” at a time. And before you know it, you’re syncing with the rhythm of the city in the most unexpected, joyful ways.

The Daily Cup That Changes Everything

You start drinking çay every single day. Not because someone told you to, but because it just feels right. Even when it’s 40°C and the sun is pressing hard against your skin, that little tulip-shaped glass finds its way into your hand. At first, it’s a social courtesy, then it becomes a comfort. A part of your routine. A pause in the chaos. Bonus points if you start debating which glass shape keeps the tea warm longer because yes, that’s a real conversation topic.

Goodbye Fanta, Hello Ayran

Once a treat from home, that fizzy orange Fanta bottle loses its sparkle when you discover ayran. Salty, cool, refreshing yogurt goodness becomes your best companion with every döner, dürüm, or börek. Suddenly, ayran is not just a drink it’s an experience, a ritual that tells your body and tastebuds, “You’ve arrived.”

Falling for the Furry Locals

If you’re in Türkiye , you will fall in love with cats. Period. Street cats in this city are not shy. They have opinions. They demand affection. You’ll find yourself talking to them, naming them, and even taking selfies. It’s not just adorable, it’s bonding. Somehow, these cats remind you that everyone belongs here even those with no permanent home.

Speaking Türkiye , One Word at a Time

You start saying “abla” and “abi” at the shops, on the bus, in cafés, and to random people who offer help on the street. You might not know their name, but you’ve learned how to offer respect the Turkish way. These simple words become part of your everyday vocabulary, and the best part? No one looks at you strange anymore they just smile and respond in kind.

And then comes kolonya. At first, you thought it was just for guests. Now, your hands are already reaching out for that lemon or lavender scent after a long day out. Whether you’re sweaty or not doesn’t matter it’s the refreshment of city life, packed in a little bottle.



Becoming a Dolmuş Warrior

Navigating the dolmuş (shared minibus) used to feel like a battlefield. Now? You’ve got it down. You know when to push forward, how to pass the fare like a local, and exactly how to say “İnecek var!” with just the right balance of urgency and accent. It’s not just about getting somewhere it’s about becoming part of the flow.

Simit Is Life

At this point, simit isn’t just bread. It’s breakfast. It’s an afternoon snack. It’s what you buy when you’re rushing somewhere and need to keep your hands and mouth busy. Crunchy, warm, and comforting, simit becomes a small but meaningful part of your day. And don’t be surprised if you start forming opinions about which vendor has the best one in your neighborhood.


Why We Love It

All these little things like tea, the cats, the dolmuş, the yogurt drink, and yes, even kolonya aren’t just habits. They’re connections. They mark the moment you stopped surviving and started living in Turkey. You’re still proudly African, with your roots, your style, and your unique story. But now, you’re also someone who gets excited about menemen for breakfast and knows exactly which supermarket sells your favorite sucuk.

These small daily rituals don’t erase your identity—they expand it. They make space for you to belong here, too.


Pro Tip from Naturel Afrika

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