Ankara's Got a Weird Vibe (and I'm Here for It)
okay, so. ankara. i didn't expect this. i honestly thought it'd be… drier. more beige. like, a giant government building. and it is that, sure, but it’s also… something else. something buzzing. i just checked and it’s drizzling a bit, a sort of persistent dampness that clings to everything. hope you like that kind of thing.
I’m here as a touring session drummer, which is to say, i’m chasing gigs and trying not to eat too much döner kebab (though, let’s be real, it’s a losing battle). the music scene is… interesting. a lot of traditional Turkish stuff, which is amazing, but also a surprising amount of really intense, almost industrial rock. i’m trying to find a place to slot in, you know? something that feels right.
I’ve been wandering around, mostly getting lost, which is my preferred method of exploration. *Kızılay Square is… a lot. just a constant flow of people, cars, and pigeons. i swear, those pigeons are organized. they have a system. someone told me that if you stand still for too long, they’ll surround you and try to steal your simit. i haven’t tested this theory yet, but i’m wary.
“Apparently, the best baklava in the city is at a tiny place near Ulus. But you have to go before noon, or they sell out. And don’t even think about asking for it to be cut into smaller pieces. They’ll judge you.”
Speaking of food, i’ve been trying to find decent coffee. it’s… a challenge. a lot of places seem to think instant is acceptable. i’m on a quest. a serious quest. i’ve consulted several local boards - check out Ankara Eats for some recommendations, though take them with a grain of salt.
I overheard some drunk advice at a bar last night - apparently, if you want to experience the real ankara, you need to head out to Beypazarı. it’s a historic town about an hour away, known for its silver workshops and Ottoman architecture. i’m thinking of checking it out this weekend. if you get bored, Konya and Kayseri are just a short drive away.
My hotel is… basic. but the view from my window is pretty great. i can see Anıtkabir*, Ataturk’s mausoleum. it’s massive. imposing. a constant reminder of the country’s history. i’m trying to learn more about it. i’ve been browsing Turkish History Foundation - it’s surprisingly fascinating.
“Don’t wear shorts in the older parts of the city. It’s considered disrespectful. And for the love of all that is holy, learn a few basic Turkish phrases. They appreciate the effort.”
I’m also trying to find some vintage clothes. Ankara isn’t exactly known for its thriving vintage scene, but i’m hoping to stumble upon something cool. i checked out Ankara Vintage Finds - seems like there are a few small shops popping up. i’ll let you know if i find anything amazing.
Someone warned me about the traffic. they weren’t kidding. it’s chaotic. a beautiful, terrifying ballet of honking and near misses. i’m sticking to walking as much as possible. and avoiding eye contact with the drivers.
I’m checking out TripAdvisor for some more ideas, but honestly, just wandering around seems to be the best way to experience this place. it’s weird. it’s messy. it’s… ankara. and i’m kind of digging it.
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