Merhabalar (Hello)! Hoş geldiniz (Welcome)!
Hi there! I’m Tiffany, but you can call me Tiffles (it’s a nickname that stuck, and, honestly, I kinda love it). Two years ago, I made what I thought was a simple decision—to take my mother on a vacation to celebrate her 75th birthday. Little did I know, that one trip would change my entire life and lead me on a journey I never could have imagined.
At 43, I packed up my life in the U.S.—two cats (Stormy and Smokey), nine checked bags, a carry on, a personal item, and a whole lot of curiosity—and moved to Türkiye. What started as a 10-day tour of this beautiful country in 2022 became an adventure of a lifetime a year later. Now, I’m living in Ankara, pursuing my MBA at Middle East Technical University, and embracing every magical, confusing, and rewarding moment of expat life.
“Tiffles in Türkiye” is where I share my stories: the highs, the lows, the laughter, and the “what have I gotten myself into” moments. From learning the language (pro tip: a translation app will be your best friend) to navigating local customs, exploring Türkiye’s rich culture, and figuring out how to make plant-based versions of my favorite Turkish dishes, it’s all here. You’ll also find tips for travel, insights into studying at METU, and advice on setting up residence in this incredible country.
Whether you’re here to laugh at my misadventures or find useful information for your own journey, I’m so happy to have you along for the ride. Türkiye may have been an unexpected stop in my life, but it’s become home, and I can’t wait to share its magic with you.
Tiffles in Türkiye recent posts
Türkiye’s Unique Celebration: National Sovereignty and Children’s Day
Today is National Sovereignty and Children’s Day in Türkiye! Join me as I explore the significance of this day.
Where I’ve Been: Winter Hibernation, Academic Recovery, New Beginnings
Emerging from my winter silence in Türkiye: overcoming academic challenges, battling seasonal blues, and launching exciting new ventures.
Happy Holidays from Tiffles in Türkiye
Reflecting on Two Years of Holidays in Türkiye The holidays have always been a time for reflection, celebration, and connection. Yet, as I round the corner of my second year in Türkiye, the festive season has taken on new meaning - or more accurately, a lack thereof....
About Me
Merhabalar (hello)! I’m Tiffany, a 44-year-old adventurer who recently traded the familiar landscapes of the U.S. for the rich culture and diverse terrains of Türkiye. Currently, I’m pursuing my MBA at the esteemed Middle East Technical University in Ankara.
I hold a bachelor’s degree in Women’s Studies from the University of Michigan and a graduate degree in Public Administration from the University of Louisville. My academic journey has equipped me with a variety of perspectives that I love to apply not just to my studies but also to my creative endeavors.
Having worked in the nonprofit, government, and private sectors, I often felt like I was still searching for my true place in the professional world. This quest for belonging is a significant part of what led me to Ankara, where I’m excited to explore new opportunities.
When I’m not immersed in my studies or writing, you can find me discovering the hidden gems of Ankara with my new friends, enjoying quality time with my two cats, Stormy and Smokey, or experimenting in the kitchen with plant-based twists on traditional Turkish dishes.
Thank you for being here! I look forward to sharing my journey and insights from my experiences as an expat in Türkiye, capturing what it’s really like to embrace a new culture and lifestyle.
About Me
Clarification
A note about the logo...
For my Turkish friends and anyone else wondering: Yes, my logo features a lightbulb, but don’t worry, it’s not a nod to the AK Parti. The lightbulb symbolizes bright ideas! You’ll also notice a beautiful butterfly, symbolizing transformation and adventure, not political affiliation. So, sit back, enjoy the posts, and rest assured – no political agendas are hidden in the blog (just a love for puns and a sprinkle of humor).
Thank you for joining me on this journey. I am so happy to have you here.
