13 Countries Where Travel Shaming Might Surprise You

By
Akanksha Sharma
June 16, 2025

12. Turkey: Mind the Monument

Hagia Sophia built as the new Cathedral of Constantinople by the Emperor Justinian in 537 AD. In 1453, the Ottoman Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror converted the Great Church into his mosque. Instanbul, Turkey. Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons @File Upload Bot (Magnus Manske

In Turkey, ancient ruins and mosques are treated with reverence. Climbing statues, yelling inside mosques, or wearing revealing clothes in conservative towns can lead to sharp rebukes. Turkey also has a strong undercurrent of national pride. Political jokes or casual criticism about sensitive issues—especially from foreigners—can quickly turn situations tense. Admire the country’s complexity, but tread lightly.

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Akanksha Sharma
I’m an editor working at the intersection of business, creativity, and thought leadership, shaping complex ideas into clear, impactful content. With a sharp editorial eye and a strategic mindset, I refine narratives that resonate, collaborate with industry leaders, and align storytelling with business goals. Balancing analytical precision with creative depth, I craft content that informs, inspires, and drives influence.

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