Ashlyn: My First Impressions of Adana
Before coming to Adana, I remember looking up “Things to See in Adana” on Google Search and all I could find were pictures of the Sabancı Merkez Camii (Sabancı Central Mosque) and the Taş Köprü (Stone Bridge). Even though these architectures are breathtaking and need to be seen when visiting, there is so much more to Adana than these two sights. From the hospitable people and stunning views to the palatable foods and astonishing historical architecture, Adana is a truly remarkable place filled with many chances of a great adventure.
ADVICE #1: DO NOT BE AFRAID TO ASK LOCALS
We did not need an “I’m American” sign to be pointed out as a foreigner. The locals already knew from the English we spoke and the way we looked that we were guests in the country but we found many advantages to this. The Turkish locals were very hospitable towards us. Even though the majority of them could not speak any English, they always wanted to help. While we were walking through the surrounding area of Büyük Saat (the large clock tower), a man was sitting in front of a store taking his smoke break. We were wanting to find the Küçük Saat (the small clock in the city that is also a landmark), so I decided to ask this man where it was. He did not speak much English and we did not speak any Turkish, so instead of explaining to us where it was he walked with us all the way to the Küçük Saat. That was about a 15 minute walk! He did not stop at that, though, but he also took us to a bus stop to help us get to our next destination. Do not be afraid to ask the locals for help.
One of my favorite things about Adana is the roaming cats and dogs of the city. They are happy little fellas. Tags are placed in their ears to show they have received their vaccines (which are provided by the government)! The whole city works together to take care of these animals. We also saw different color baby chicks! That really blew my mind! You never know what kind of animals you will see in Adana.
ADVICE #2: BE WILLING TO EXPLORE OUTSIDE YOUR COMFORT ZONE
It is so easy to be a part of Turkish culture if you stay open-minded to it. While I was only in Adana for a few days, I tasted, saw, and heard so many new things. To truly get the Adana experience, make sure to meet some locals. They will always offer you çay (black tea), which is so good. My advice is to take it without sugar. We went on a day trip and even at the gas station we were offered çay, so be ready to drink a lot of it!
Speaking of days trips, do not be afraid to get out of the city. There are so many cool things to do and see, so do not be afraid to go a few hours away. Turkey, and specifically the Adana province, has so much historical architecture that is in places that might not be seen as the easiest to get to, but it is so worth seeing. These places include Kozan Castle and Saimbeyli and so many more. And don’t forget about the amazing places to eat.
Get out of your comfort zone and go see the world. Go see Adana.
Recommendations
PLACES TO GO IN ADANA CITY
Taş Köprü (Stone Bridge)
Büyük Saat (Large Clock Tower)
Ulu Camii (Grand Mosque)
Yeni Uğur (Turkish Delight Factory)
Atatürk Parkı (Atatürk Park)
Adana Archaeology Museum
THINGS TO DRINK
Türk Kahvesi (Turkish Coffee- I had this with sugar)
Muzlu süt (Banana Milk- can get it from Kazim Büfe)
Şalgam (Vegetable Drink- think of it as a beet pickle juice)
Ayran (Yogurt Drink- not my favorite, but everyone has to try it)
Çay (Tea- I drank it with no sugar every time and I loved it)
THINGS TO EAT
Simit (Type of Bread- sold on street corners and in bakeries)
Pide (Turkish Pizza- I liked the goat meat one the best, adding garlic yogurt on top)
Turkish Delight (Get it from Yeni Uğur- they are very generous on samples and will let you try it all before buying)
Tavuklu Durum (Chicken Wrap- even get some Turkish fries to go with it)
