https://hitchwiki.org/en/api.php?action=feedcontributions&user=Ballenuk&feedformat=atomHitchwiki - User contributions [en]2024-03-28T23:30:23ZUser contributionsMediaWiki 1.32.3https://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Georgia&diff=89302Georgia2017-09-27T05:22:38Z<p>Ballenuk: </p>
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<div>''This article is about country in the Caucasus region. '''Georgia''' may also refer to [[Georgia (United States)|Georgia]], a state in the [[United States of America|USA]] among [[Georgia (disambiguation)|other places]].''<br />
<br />
{{infobox Country<br />
|country = of Georgia<br />
|map = <map lat='42.277' lng='43.824' zoom='6' view='3'/><br />
|language = Georgian is the official language. In the west of the country Mengrelian and Svan are also spoken. Abkhazia and South Ossetia each have their own languages. Russian is universally understood except by some of the young, but they usually speak English instead.<br />
|capital = [[Tbilisi]]<br />
|pop = 4,774,4732<br />
|currency = Lari ( GEL )<br />
|hitch = <rating country='ge' /><br />
}}<br />
<br />
[[File:Georgia.jpeg|thumb|250px| Hitchhiking in Georgia.]]<br />
'''Georgia''' is a country in [[Western Asia]], that borders [[Turkey]], [[Armenia]], [[Azerbaijan]] and [[Russia]]. Two part of Georgia in the North, [[Abkhazia]] and [[South Ossetia]] are ''de facto'' independent countries though few nations recognize their independence.<br />
<br />
Hitching in Georgia is easy most of the time! Short waits and very friendly people. Road conditions in some places are quite bad so it can take some time but in most of cases there are renovated roads. <br />
Spots are very easy to find, just head in the right direction and you will find a suitable place to stand. Sometimes if luck isn't on your side though and you may have to wait for a while and the only cars who will stop for you are ''marshrutkas'' (microbuses) which expect payment. But remain patient! Eventually someone will stop for you.<br />
<br />
Unlike most European countries, usually no one cares if you hitchhike directly on highways, so it's not a problem to find a spot.<br />
<br />
Older generations speak Russian as a foreign language, but people in their twenties and younger are able to speak more English, at least in the bigger cities. In villages even youngsters might only speak Georgian but in the last couple of years many young people from English-speaking countries have been sent to the villages to teach English. A few phrases of Russian will be handy or with a little extra effort people will be amazed if you know some Georgian.<br />
<br />
The Georgian hospitality is incredible and the most remarkable experience in this country but sometimes also a small risk as it can become a little bit pushing from time to time. Refusing alcohol can be offending for some people (if there is another person next to the driver in the car the chances are very high that the famous national drink chacha is offered to you) and if you are vegetarian, there could be a similar problem. If you're traveling as a couple, try not to be too affectionate in public places, as some people are extremely conservative and can be offended by this, and drunk guys may try to fight you (this happened to one hitchhiker after kissing his girlfriend on a marshrutka).<br />
<br />
== Border crossing ==<br />
<br />
Citizens of EU, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and many other countries don't need a visa to enter and stay in the territory of Georgia for 360 days.<br />
<br />
=== [[Abkhazia]] ===<br />
<br />
Foreigners with a valid Entry Permit can enter [[Abkhazia]] from Georgia, but have to return to Georgia. Travelling from Russia through Abkhazia towards Georgia is impossible, as you'll then be regarded as having illegally entered Georgia.<br />
<br />
=== Armenia ===<br />
<br />
There are three border crossings with [[Armenia]], through the towns of Ninotsminda (Georgia), Dmanisi (Georgia) and Bagratashen (AM)/Sadakhlo(GE). There is frequent traffic between these countries, especially between Yerevan and Tbilisi. The Bagratashen-crossing won't give you much trouble - border guards are OK and it will most probably take you less than 10 minutes to cross it.<br />
<br />
=== Turkey ===<br />
<br />
As of 2017, there are three border crossings between Georgia and Turkey, all of which are passable on foot.<br />
<br />
When arriving from the west, your likely point of entry to the country will be [[Sarp-Sarpi border crossing]] with [[Turkey]] on the Black Sea coast. That border crossing has steady traffic. The majority of truck traffic between Georgia and Turkey travels through this crossing, so it is very easy to find rides in either direction. This is the busiest border between the two countries, so it can take time to get across here. It's easy to get a ride in either direction though, just walk a few hundred metres away from each border complex and you'll be able to find a good spot.<br />
<br />
There are two other crossings further east. The furthest norther is the [[Posof-Akhaltsikhe]] crossing from Posof to the Turkish border settlement of Türkgözü, crossing to the village of Vale and on to [[Akhaltsikhe]]. The Turkish border road is large and in good condition, and the road from the border to Akhaltsikhe is smaller, but has been repaved. This border crossing is fairly quite, but there's still a steady flow of traffic and it's easy to find a ride in either direction. <br />
<br />
[[File:Georgia-turkey-border.JPG|thumb|250px| The 2015 reopened Georgian-Turkish border close to Akhalkalaki.]]<br />
<br />
In 2015, the [[Ardahan-Akhalkalaki]] border crossing between Çıldır and Kartsakhi reopened, having been closed for the previous two decades. It is 30 kilometres from Akhalkalaki, Georgia - which is on a main trucking route to and from [[Yerevan]]. On the Turkish side, you will be 10 kilometres to Çıldır. From here, it is easy to get to [[Ardahan]] and onwards. Hitchwiki user Ben hitchhiked through this border in September 2017 and found the road on the Georgian side newly refurbished with plenty of traffic to and from Akhalkalaki including a regular flow of large trucks. On the Turkish side the highway is fresh for a few kilometres, before becoming a smaller road. Construction of a new duel carriageway is underway as of September 2017, but despite that, there's plenty of traffic. The truck driver who took Ben told him that many trucks travel from here from Georgia to Istanbul via [[Erzurum]] or the Black Sea coast at [[Hopa]]. It was a quicker hitchhike from [[Yerevan]] to the coast than hitching a ride to the border further away in [[Batumi]]. The road from Ardahan, through Artvin, to Hopa at the coast is thoroughly spectacular and switchback filled. It's well worth hitching down here purely for the scenery. The road from this border also passes the intersection to head south to [[Kars]] as well as north to the coast.<br />
<br />
=== [[Russia]] ===<br />
<br />
Since July 2011 it is also possible to cross the border to/from [[Russia]] for all passport holders at the [[Verkhny Lars-Darial Gorge border crossing]].<br />
<br />
== Sleeping ==<br />
<br />
Pitching a tent is a normal thing for the local people, forbidden only in city centres and near ruins. <br />
<br />
As usual in the former Soviet Union, it is possible to rent private rooms from local people. In any city or small town one need only go into a shop or small restaurant and ask if someone has a room. Prices start from around 10 lari, and sometimes tea and even dinner is included.<br />
<br />
Georgians are very hospitable people. When hitchhiking in the evening or at night, there is a high chance of your driver inviting you to stay at his home. If you are seen at nightfall on the outskirts of a town, villagers may literally pull you into their homes. Note that if you accept Georgian hospitality, your hosts may insist on a marathon drinking session, and you may not get much sleep before having to leave early the next morning. <br />
<br />
== Food ==<br />
<br />
It's hard to be hungry in Georgia. There's easy to find delicious and very cheap food in every city, in small villages you will be often invited to eat with locals.<br />
<br />
If you are looking for vegan options, just ask for ''samarkhvo'': this word denotes food suitable for the religious (Orthodox) fasting, that is actually completely free of meat, fish (though this is sometimes allowed), milk/cheese/dairy and eggs.<br />
<br />
== Climate ==<br />
<br />
Summer can be pretty hot in Georgia with temperatures around 35–40 °C so you'll need a lot of water and shelter from the sun. Water is easy to find and in fact most Georgians drink tap water.<br />
<br />
Winter is quite cold and snowy, especially the north parts. <br />
<br />
== Using police cars ==<br />
<br />
In Georgia it is possible to "hitchhike" with [[police]] cars. Due to the country's desire to become more European, a major reform of the police was undertaken, affecting also the way the police work and deal with people. You should not be afraid of asking policeman for information or help. Most probably they will help you and even more. You may not even need to ask, as it's not uncommon for police cars in Georgia to pick up hitchhikers, and then pull over other cars or trucks on the road to find a ride going straight to your destination. <br />
<br />
The police also provide a special type of service - they can deliver you to the address you are asking - for people who are in a position to be harmed or injured, for example when you are a foreigner and traveling alone in Georgia. They can bring you to the address you name or to a hotel. Keep in mind that you will have to fill out and sign a form. It is recommended to use this service in the evenings and nights.<br />
<br />
== Cities ==<br />
* [[Tbilisi]], the capital, also known as ''Tiflis''<br />
* [[Batumi]]<br />
* [[Gori]]<br />
* [[Kobuleti]]<br />
* [[Kutaisi]]<br />
* [[Mestia]]<br />
* [[Poti]]<br />
* [[Telavi]]<br />
* [[Vale]]<br />
* [[Zugdidi]]<br />
<br />
== Regions ==<br />
* [[Abkhazia]]<br />
* [[Adjara]]<br />
* [[Guria]]<br />
* [[Imereti]]<br />
* [[Kakheti]]<br />
* [[Kartli]]<br />
* [[Khevi]]<br />
* [[Khevsureti]]<br />
* [[Kvemo Kartli]]<br />
* [[Pshavi]]<br />
* [[Racha]]<br />
* [[Samegrelo]]<br />
* [[Samtskhe-Javakheti]]<br />
* [[Svaneti]]<br />
* [[South Ossetia]]<br />
* [[Tusheti]]<br />
{{IsIn|Western Asia}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Middle East]]<br />
[[Category:Georgia|*]]<br />
<br />
{{move_to_nomadwiki}}<br />
{{move_to_trashwiki}}<br />
<br />
[[de:Georgien]]</div>Ballenukhttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Posof-Akhaltsikhe&diff=89301Posof-Akhaltsikhe2017-09-27T05:20:35Z<p>Ballenuk: </p>
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<div>The '''Posof-Akhaltsikhe border crossing''' connects [[Georgia (country)|Georgia]] and [[Turkey]] in the countryside. It is 10 km from Posof in Turkey, and 10 kilometres from Akhaltsikhe in Georgia. Walking across this border is allowed. <br />
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== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
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The road on the Turkish side goes over a huge mountain pass from Posof to the village of Turkgozu by the border. There is a regular flow of traffic out in either direction.<br />
<br />
Both roads are in fine condition. Just walk an hundred metres from the border buildings and you'll easily find a good spot to catch a ride.<br />
<br />
[[Category:Georgia]]<br />
[[Category:Turkey]]<br />
[[Category:Border crossings]]</div>Ballenukhttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Turkey&diff=89300Turkey2017-09-27T05:17:56Z<p>Ballenuk: </p>
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<div>{{Infobox Country<br />
|country = Turkey<br />
|language = Turkish<br />
|map = <map lat='39.29' lng='35' zoom='5' view='0' width='450' height='250' country='Turkey'/><br />
|capital = [[Ankara]]<br />
|pop = 71,158,647<br />
|currency = New Turkish Lira (TRY)<br />
|hitch = <rating country='tr' /><br />
|hitchbase = 196<br />
|avp = turkey<br />
|BW = TR<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''Turkey''' is an extremely hitchhiking-friendly country. Your waiting times will rarely exceed 15 minutes on reasonably used roads, even off the main roads. On smaller roads, the first vehicle passing you is likely to stop for you. Also you're very likely to be invited for tea and food, and often also to home stays. Very few people speak English, while German might be a little bit more useful, especially in the east. However, it's essential to learn at least a few words of basic [[Eastern Europe phrasebook#Turkish|Turkish]], also for your safety. Turkey has a very distinct reputation, especially when it comes to female hitchhikers, but once you get on terms with the dynamics of interacting with Turks (likely only after you make your first mistake, though) you'll usually be fine. See the Safety Chapter below.<br />
<br />
It's not very likely that drivers will ask for money, but it happens occasionally. If you feel your status as a free hitchhiker is unclear, make sure to say ''para(m) yok'' before you get into the car. On the other hand, this might offend drivers who genuinely want to help you and do not expect money.<br />
<br />
Hitchhiking at night works well as long as you stand in a somewhat visible spot.<br />
<br />
== Border crossing ==<br />
Visas can no longer be obtained on arrival, so if you are a nationality that needs a visa, be sure to buy it online in advance. See [http://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Turkey Wikivoyage] for detailed information on visa matters.<br />
<br />
==== [[Armenia]] ====<br />
Be aware of the fact that, although Turkey and [[Armenia]] share a land border, this border is ''closed'' because of continuing political issues. <br />
<br />
==== [[Bulgaria]] ====<br />
* [[Kapitan Andreevo-Kapıkule border crossing]]<br />
<br />
==== [[Georgia]] ====<br />
* [[Sarp-Sarpi border crossing]]<br />
* [[Posof-Akhaltsikhe]]<br />
* [[Ardahan-Akhalkalaki]]<br />
<br />
==== [[Greece]] ====<br />
* [[Ipsala]]<br />
<br />
==== [[Iran]] ====<br />
* [[Bazargan-Doğubeyazıt border crossing|Doğubeyazıt]]<br />
* [[Yuksekova-Esendere border crossing|Yuksekova]] <br />
<br />
==== Iraqi Kurdistan ====<br />
* There is one border crossing to Iraqi Kurdistan, just south of Silopi.<br />
<br />
==== [[Syria]] ====<br />
* There are a number of border crossings, but most are closed due to the ongoing unrest. In peace, the busiest one is Bab al-Hawa, connecting [[Antalya]] with [[Aleppo]].<br />
<br />
== Safety ==<br />
<br />
Turkey has been getting a bad reputation for female hitchhikers following the murder of [[Pippa]] in April 2008 and many discouraging stories, ranging from minor harassment (see Personal Experiences below) to near-miss murder/rape cases like the one [[User:Zenit|Zenit]] and the girl he was travelling with experienced in November 2011. While these things shouldn't deter anybody from travelling in Turkey, they certainly prove that there is a specific code of conduct different from any other country that needs to be respected in order to avoid unnecessary problems. It will take a little bit of travelling in the country first to get used to this different dynamic, so this will be the time to be extra cautious. Further reading for female hitchhikers – and anybody travelling in Turkey – is [http://youarealltourists.blogspot.com/2008/04/hitchhiking-guide-to-turkey-for-girls.html this blog]. Safety is always important while hitchhiking, so check the [[Hitchhiker's safety|Safety]] article before hitting the road!<br />
<br />
What follows is a list of general guidelines for hitchhiking in Turkey. Remember, however, that you cannot fully master the different dynamics of social interaction, especially between members of opposite sexes, until you've been exposed to the inital special attention you'll receive as a foreigner and possibly made some beginning's mistakes.<br />
<br />
* First of all, keep in mind that in Turkey there is widespread prejudice concerning the willingness of Western girls to engage in casual sex with random strangers. <br />
* Having said that, the biggest part of problems arise from the different conceptions of flirting in the West and in Turkey. In Turkey, making eye conctact, smiling and accepting compliments can all easily be interpreted as outright flirtateous behaviour. Another thing to watch out for is that Turkish men will test males travelling with a female to see how protective they are of their female companion. This will always be in a somewhat playful manner, and hardly ever in a threatening way. One very important thing is that a man travelling with a woman should never let her sit next to a man other than himself. This cannot be stressed enough, as drivers will read from this behaviour that a) the guy has no claims on the girl and don't really care what happens to her from this point and b) that the girl might be interested/easy.<br />
* Another important point, if one that goes somewhat without saying, is about clothing. Turkey is definitely not the place to hitchhike in hotpants and a tanktop, the least should be long trousers and a unrevealing t-shirt with sleeves down to your elbows. Anyone wearing less than this (apart from the Western coastal regions maybe) will usually be seen as a prostitute, and without the necessary language skills to explain women's rights over their own body you might get yourself into hassle you don't really need. If you want to be extra safe, you can also hitchhike with a headscarf and/or a long ("Iranian style") gown going down to your thighs and hiding your shape.<br />
* There is different things you can say about your marital status. If travelling with a guy, the classical story of the married couple can work well enough, but won't necessarily stop a determined guy from trying his chances. Also keep in mind that many truck drivers (but generally not drivers of private cars) know that foreign hitchhikers tend to lie about their status as married couples. This might actually encourage some truck drivers to try his luck even if in the first point they never intended anything at all. If travelling alone as a girl, it seems to be safer to say that you are unmarried - meaning, for most people, a virgin. The purity of virginity is widely respected and can provide protection. You can usefully combine both of these strategies (if travelling in a couple) by saying that you're cousins because a) you will be seen as a unmarried virgin, b) male relatives traditionally protect unmarried female family members and c) a cousin might at some point also have been picked by the family to be a future husband to the girl.<br />
* Something that plays into the dynamics of hitchhiking in Turkey as well are the mostly Russian/Eastern European prostitutes that can be found practicing their trade all over Turkey. As a girl hitchhiking, be it alone or in company, you will at some point likely be confused with one of the working ladies. As an effect of many of those girls being Russian, the words "rus" or "natasha" have come to mean "foreign prostitute". If your driver says any of those words, he's most likely asking if you're a prostitute. Make very very clear that you have nothing to do with this, say ''yok'' very clearly without hesitating, smiling, laughing, or any other even remotely flirtateous reaction. Be insulted. Likewise it's not a very good idea to say that you're Russian or even from any Eastern European country that could be associated with Russia, especially Ukraine. If the driver has understood that you're not a prostitute, he'll usually not bother you about it any more.<br />
* There is one main Turkish hand gesture that leads to confusion among foreigners. It is indeed extremely ambiguous, used in very different situations and complicated to understand in its context. It consists of the index fingers of both hands rubbed against each other back and forth. Some important meanings of it include casual sex, friendship, physical contact, geographical closeness of objects or places, money, etc. You see that the meaning can range from explaining how to get somewhere or explaining that driver is going close to your destination to asking for casual sex. Nothing more can be said than to use your common sense and not to be overly paranoid.<br />
* When it comes to accepting rides, listen to your intuition and don't worry about being picky. Remember that even if you say no to several cars you'll still not wait very long.<br />
* To finish, a brief list of useful vocabulary in difficult situations. Check out the pronounication guide in the [[Eastern Europe phrasebook#Turkish|Turkish phrasebook]].<br />
:* ''çok ayıp'' - lit. "big shame", the most useful thing to say if somebody is harrassing you (sexual or not.)<br />
:* ''Allah akşina'' - lit. "for Allah's love", i.e. for God's sake<br />
:* ''bakire'' - "virgin"<br />
:* ''kuzen'' - "cousin", ''biz kuzen'' - "we are cousins"<br />
:* ''evli'' - "married"<br />
<br />
As a brief summary: As a girl, be aware of your body language - smiling, eye contact, being flattered by compliments are all bad ideas. As a guy hitchhiking with a girl, stand your ground, show presence; always make sure to sit next to the driver. If the driver talks mostly to the girl, it's a bad sign. Girls should dress modestly and make sure not to be confused with Russian prostitutes ("rus", "natasha"). Be picky about your rides. Most importantly though, keep in mind that in 99% of the cases all will be fine, especially if you pay attention to those guidelines!<br />
<br />
As a guy travelling with a girl it is rare that you will be hit on with the notable exception of the far Eastern part of the country. However travelling alone as a guy you will/might be asked for sex depending not so much on your attractiveness in the Western sense as on how exotic you are (i.e. being big and blond will most likely increase the level of attention). Keep in mind that just even if a guy asks you to have sex with him it does not necessarily mean he's gay. Especially in Eastern Turkey it's very common among unmarried straight men to engage in casual sex among each other as an effect of an extremely conservative society and sometimes horrible ramifications for girls having pre-maritial sex. However other than the nuisance of being asked for sex you're unlikely to run into any problems.<br />
<br />
== Climate ==<br />
[[File:Erzurum.JPG|thumb|250px|In [[winter]] it can be cold.]]<br />
During the summer temperatures tend to rise above 35&nbsp;°C, especially in the South, so it is recommended to secure yourself with sufficient supplies of water, and to plan travelling in a way that most of the actual hitchhiking would be earlier in the morning or in very late afternoon, to avoid a burning sun.<br />
<br />
In [[winter]], though, it can be quite cold in Turkey. As long as you stick to the south coast, you'll be able to have a swim in the Aegean any sunny winter day. On some places it's just hitching 100km north into the mountains and you'll see snow too!<br />
<br />
=== Hitchhiking buses ===<br />
[[File:Mikeeg555 hitching in Turkey.jpg|thumb|250px|left|[[User:Mikeeg555|Mikeeg555]] hitching in Turkey]]<br />
While waiting beside the road, town-to-town minibus drivers (which can be recognized by banners proclaiming town names all over) and intercity buses will flash their headlights or honk at you — to ask whether you'd like a ride (for a fee, of course). Don't be afraid to stop them and say "''Param yok'' (which literally translates "I don't have money"), it's ok?". A couple of hitchhikers did this when a bus stopped beside them to drop a passenger, and then they kept doing this everytime, and about 30% of the buses gave them a ride. [[User:Sirrdc|Sirrdc]] also had great success hitchhiking on intercity buses. Inside the cities, it's even easier; ask them politely and they will take you a bit further ahead.<br />
<br />
== Food and sleep ==<br />
Take a look at the [http://nomadwiki.org/en/Turkey Nomadwiki] article for this!<br />
[[File:turkeyhitch.jpg|thumb|350px|[[User:Chael777|Chael]]<small><sup>[http://www.velabas.com/ site]</sup></small> hitching south to Bodrum, April 2008]]<br />
<br />
== Cities and License plates ==<br />
<br />
{{Cities Turkey}}<br />
<br />
The first two numbers of the Turkish car plates indicate the city a car is registered in. These are sorted from 1 to 81 alphabetically. This rule is not applicable for villages that recently received the status of cities.<br />
<br />
The number is given to a whole province, e.g. [[Antalya]] and [[Alanya]] are both 07, as they are situated in the same province (Antalya Province).<br />
<br />
[[File:Turkish-truck-and-truck-driver-2008.jpg|thumb|right|350px|A truck, the driver, a boy working at the gas station and [[User:Guaka|guaka]], somewhere between [[Ankara]] and [[Gaziantep]] October 2008]]<br />
<table border="0"><tr><td><br />
* 01 [[Adana]]<br />
* 02 [[Adıyaman]]<br />
* 03 [[Afyonkarahisar]]<br />
* 04 [[Ağrı]]<br />
* 05 [[Amasya]]<br />
* 06 [[Ankara]]<br />
* 07 [[Antalya]]<br />
* 08 [[Artvin]]<br />
* 09 [[Aydın]]<br />
* 10 [[Balıkesir]]<br />
* 11 [[Bilecik]]<br />
* 12 [[Bingöl]]<br />
* 13 [[Bitlis]]<br />
* 14 [[Bolu]]<br />
* 15 [[Burdur]]<br />
* 16 [[Bursa]]<br />
* 17 [[Çanakkale]]<br />
* 18 [[Çankırı]]<br />
* 19 [[Çorum]]<br />
* 20 [[Denizli]]<br />
* 21 [[Diyarbakır]]<br />
* 22 [[Edirne]]<br />
* 23 [[Elazığ]]<br />
* 24 [[Erzincan]]<br />
* 25 [[Erzurum]]<br />
* 26 [[Eskişehir]]<br />
* 27 [[Gaziantep]]<br />
</td><td><br />
* 28 [[Giresun]]<br />
* 29 [[Gümüşhane]]<br />
* 30 [[Hakkari]]<br />
* 31 [[Hatay]]<br />
* 32 [[Isparta]]<br />
* 33 [[Mersin]]<br />
* 34 [[Istanbul]]<br />
* 35 [[Izmir]]<br />
* 36 [[Kars]]<br />
* 37 [[Kastamonu]]<br />
* 38 [[Kayseri]]<br />
* 39 [[Kırklareli]]<br />
* 40 [[Kırşehir]]<br />
* 41 [[Kocaeli]]<br />
* 42 [[Konya]]<br />
* 43 [[Kütahya]]<br />
* 44 [[Malatya]]<br />
* 45 [[Manisa]]<br />
* 46 [[Kahramanmaraş]]<br />
* 47 [[Mardin]]<br />
* 48 [[Muğla]]<br />
* 49 [[Muş]]<br />
* 50 [[Nevsehir|Nevşehir]]<br />
* 51 [[Niğde]]<br />
* 52 [[Ordu]]<br />
* 53 [[Rize]]<br />
* 54 [[Adapazari|Sakarya]]<br />
</td><td><br />
* 55 [[Samsun]]<br />
* 56 [[Siirt]]<br />
* 57 [[Sinop]]<br />
* 58 [[Sivas]]<br />
* 59 [[Tekirdağ]]<br />
* 60 [[Tokat]]<br />
* 61 [[Trabzon]]<br />
* 62 [[Tunceli]]<br />
* 63 [[Urfa|Şanlıurfa]]<br />
* 64 [[Uşak]]<br />
* 65 [[Van]]<br />
* 66 [[Yozgat]]<br />
* 67 [[Zonguldak]]<br />
* 68 [[Aksaray]]<br />
* 69 [[Bayburt]]<br />
* 70 [[Karaman]]<br />
* 71 [[Kırıkkale]]<br />
* 72 [[Batman]]<br />
* 73 [[Sirnak|Şırnak]]<br />
* 74 [[Bartın]]<br />
* 75 [[Ardahan]]<br />
* 76 [[Iğdır]]<br />
* 77 [[Yalova]]<br />
* 78 [[Karabük]]<br />
* 79 [[Kilis]]<br />
* 80 [[Osmaniye]]<br />
* 81 [[Düzce]]<br />
</td></tr></table><br />
<br />
== Regions and Their Hitchability ==<br />
<br />
While in general it is fairly easy to attract a lift in Turkey, locals' view of hitchhikers vary across the country. In general, people in northern and inland regions of the country are friendlier towards hitchhikers. If put systematically, the level of ease to get a lift in various regions of the country is as follows in general, from easiest to hardest:<br />
<br />
:Southeastern Anatolia (usually the first car passing by offering a lift) > North coast (Black Sea Region) (one in every ten cars offering a lift) > Northwest/European Turkey (Thrace) (most waits not exceeding 5 mins) > Inland steppes (Central Anatolia, longest waits likely ~20 mins) > Northwest/Asian Marmara (South Marmara) > Aegean Region > Southwest coast (Lycia) > Rest of Mediterranean coast (expect waits up to two hours!), with eastern mountains (Eastern Anatolia) perhaps falling somewhere between Central Anatolia and South Marmara.<br />
<br />
As can be clearly seen, less touristy somewhere is, easier to attract a lift there. That being said, however, there are of course helpful drivers on the highways of the south, too, although they seem to be exceptions rather than the rule.<br />
<br />
* [[:Category:Antalya (Province)|Antalya Province]]<br />
* [[:Category:Çanakkale (Province)|Çanakkale Province]]<br />
* [[Cappadocia]] <br />
* [[:Category:Muğla (Province)|Muğla Province]]<br />
* [[:Category:Southeastern Anatolia|Southeastern Anatolia]] <br />
<br />
== Personal Experiences ==<br />
<br />
Some recent thoughts and reflections about hitchhiking Turkey as a solo female: http://shelobify.wordpress.com/2013/01/04/an-update-about-hitchhiking-solo-as-a-female-in-turkey/<br />
<br />
:''My friend and I (both female) hitched through Turkey from the Greek border to Cappadocia and it was quite stressful. We never waited long for a ride and most of the people we rode with insisted on buying us chai (just tea) and meals. However, I would say that with about 90 percent of our rides we got our butts, boobs, or crotches grabbed, or at least asked for sex. We had to make our driver leave us on the side of the road a lot in the middle of nowhere so that was kinda dangerous. And it took us about 10 hours to make it 25 miles from just before Istanbul to just past the city. People kept trying to take us into the city or someplace we didn't want to go. We were so glad when we finally made it out of Turkey at the Bulgarian border. It was an adventure though and I would recommend traveling through Turkey, just be aware that all of the other women standing on the side of the road are prostitutes. It was all just a giant misunderstanding and a lack of respect, to some extent, on our part, for the local culture. When hitching here maybe you can learn how to say "we are just traveling and we aren't looking for sex may we still have a ride" before getting in a vehicle. For the record, our drivers always let us out when we told them too and nothing dramatic happened beyond the daily grabbings.''<br />
<br />
:''I have just finished my second two-week trip alone through Turkey just hitchhiking, and my experience has not been at all like the above. I was quite shocked when I read it! I was traveling for long distances almost every day and I must have hitched with over fifty drivers – and only one of those drivers touched me apart from to shake my hand, and I was asked for sex twice, relatively politely, and both accepted no as an answer. I was treated with courtesy, respect, generosity, kindness, invites home to meet their families, and yes, tea and oranges. Also people kept buying me bus tickets rather than 'letting' me hitchhike on, which was horribly embarrassing! I think people who picked me up probably did consider that I might be a prostitute, but easily accepted that I wasn't judging on behavior. I suspect that experiences like the above depend on inappropriate behaviour or dress, or horribly bad luck. I don't speak Turkish, so sometimes it was a bit boring, which was probably the worst thing about hitchhiking. I would recommend not understanding the questions about whether you're alone or married- not speaking Turkish can actually help! And also be aware that Turkish women hitchhiking sit in the back seat of cars, same as in taxis.''<br />
<br />
:''I hitch-hiked with a male friend for 3.5 weeks in Turkey. We started from Istanbul, to Safranbolu, Yozgat, Malatya, Nemrut Daig, Cappadocia, Kalkan and back to Istanbul. I was asked to have sex with the bus conductor after one of the bus conductor invited us to take us and he found out that my friend and I are just friends traveling together. Well, that's just a minor issue. We got picked up by an old man when we were hitch-hiking from Cappadocia to Nemrut Dagi. The old man had only 2 fingers on his right hand, and he was driving at the speed of 150 km/h, drinking tea and talking over the phone while my friend and I were sitting at the back! He drove us to a town nearby to do some sight-seeing and invited us to stay with his daughter's family! We ended up staying there for 3 nights. My fiend joined her husband to work while i stayed at home with the wife doing some traditional stuff! The hardest route to get a ride was probably from Antalya to Kalkan. It was late and no one wanted to pick us up! In the end, two guys who worked in a restaurant picked us up and sent us to our friend's doorstep!''<br />
<br />
:''Summer 2012 we spent hitch-hiking around Turkey. Me (male) and my girlfriend have experienced a lot of hospitality from Turkish drivers and hosts. Many times they stopped on the road and they offered us lunch/dinner. Turkish men never hardly spoke to my girlfriend (they fully respect fact that woman is in relationship with other man). Once whilst hitch-hiking the bus pull-over. We explained that we don't have money for payment - it was any problem. Another fantastic thing about hhiking in Turkey is you rarely have to wait more than 10 minutes, drivers pull-over their car on the highway and sometimes you just have to walk alongside the road and they will stop the car. Great experience, but I really recommend to go there as a mixed pair!''<br />
<br />
<br />
:"A female friend and I hitchhiked from the Georgian border to Istanbul. Turkey is one of the easiest countries in the world to hitch rides. Wait times, even in bad locations, rarely exceed ten minutes. The hitchhiking is so good that it pays to be picky about who you ride with: in Turkey you will have the privilege to turn down truck drivers in favor of faster vehicles. Although slower, most trucks will stop to offer rides. While hitchhiking at night, we were allowed to nap in the sleeping berths that long-haul trucks have. Be polite, respectful, and learn a few words of Turkish and you will have great experiences (free food, impromptu tour guides, beds to sleep in, etc.). However, you should be cautious if you are a solo female traveler, as even mild friendliness towards unrelated males will be misconstrued as flirtation." - [[User:vmpfc1|vmpfc1]]<br />
<br />
:"Hitchhiked along the Black Sea Coast from Georgia to Bulgaria. Turkey was easy enough for me even for such a huge country. There was no issue sleeping on beaches or sleeping in fields on the outskirts of towns (I always asked for permission off of security guards etc. which most private property had). The cities are really big though due to the big populations, walking out of them can take ages, especially Istanbul which is very difficult to hitchhike out of. Turks are super proud too for the most part so don't offend them and also don't urinate on the side of the road unless you are certain no-one will see (its definitely not acceptable)" - [[User:HoboSpirit|HoboSpirit]]<br />
<br />
== Links ==<br />
* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/otostopRail/ Turkish hitchhikers FB group]<br />
* [http://youarealltourists.blogspot.com/2008/04/hitchhiking-guide-to-turkey-for-girls.html Hitchhiking Guide to Turkey for girls]<br />
* [http://abgefahren.hitchbase.com/DE/blogs/alex/20090213/just-hitching-rides-journey-eid-christmas Just hitching rides: A journey from Eid to Christmas] (Hitchhiking from Yemen to Germany), abgefahren Blogs<br />
* User [[User:Halt, Stop! Reudnitz kommt.|Craig]] hitched along the Silk Road and wrote about his experiences here: [http://thumbingasia.blogspot.com/ Thumbing Asia From West to East] Turkey was big fun to hitch-hike. People are really hospitable everywhere - from Istanbul to Capaddocia, from Antep to Kurdistan!<br />
<br />
{{hitchbase_country|196}}<br />
{{Template:Europe/countries}}<br />
[[wikipedia:Turkey]]<br />
{{IsIn|Western Asia}}<br />
[[trash:Turkey]]<br />
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[[Category:Turkey]]<br />
[[Category:Western Asia]]<br />
[[Category:Southern Europe]]<br />
[[Category:East Route from North Cape to Cape of Good Hope]]<br />
<br />
[[de:Türkei]]<br />
[[es:Turquia]]<br />
[[fr:Turquie]]<br />
[[pl:Turcja]]<br />
[[tr:Türkiye]]<br />
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{{move_to_nomadwiki}}</div>Ballenukhttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Ardahan-Akhalkalaki&diff=89299Ardahan-Akhalkalaki2017-09-27T05:16:40Z<p>Ballenuk: </p>
<hr />
<div>The '''Akhalkalaki border crossing''' connects [[Georgia (country)|Georgia]] and [[Turkey]] in the countryside. It is less than 35 km from [[Ardahan]] in Turkey, and 30 kilometres from Akhalkalaki in Georgia. Walking across this border is allowed. This border was fully refurbished and then reopened in 2015 after two decades of closure.<br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
<br />
[[File:Georgia-turkey-border.JPG|thumb|250px| The 2015 reopened Georgian-Turkish border close to Akhalkalaki.]]<br />
<br />
The border is not next to any big settlements and is beautifully located on the shores of Kartsakhi Lake. New roads have been built on either side of the border, so you can walk a few metres away from the border buildings in either direction and find a ride. There is a regular flow of traffic including a lot of long-distance trucks. Finding a ride is easy<br />
<br />
[[Category:Georgia]]<br />
[[Category:Turkey]]<br />
[[Category:Border crossings]]</div>Ballenukhttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Georgia&diff=89298Georgia2017-09-27T05:15:10Z<p>Ballenuk: </p>
<hr />
<div>''This article is about country in the Caucasus region. '''Georgia''' may also refer to [[Georgia (United States)|Georgia]], a state in the [[United States of America|USA]] among [[Georgia (disambiguation)|other places]].''<br />
<br />
{{infobox Country<br />
|country = of Georgia<br />
|map = <map lat='42.277' lng='43.824' zoom='6' view='3'/><br />
|language = Georgian is the official language. In the west of the country Mengrelian and Svan are also spoken. Abkhazia and South Ossetia each have their own languages. Russian is universally understood except by some of the young, but they usually speak English instead.<br />
|capital = [[Tbilisi]]<br />
|pop = 4,774,4732<br />
|currency = Lari ( GEL )<br />
|hitch = <rating country='ge' /><br />
}}<br />
<br />
[[File:Georgia.jpeg|thumb|250px| Hitchhiking in Georgia.]]<br />
'''Georgia''' is a country in [[Western Asia]], that borders [[Turkey]], [[Armenia]], [[Azerbaijan]] and [[Russia]]. Two part of Georgia in the North, [[Abkhazia]] and [[South Ossetia]] are ''de facto'' independent countries though few nations recognize their independence.<br />
<br />
Hitching in Georgia is easy most of the time! Short waits and very friendly people. Road conditions in some places are quite bad so it can take some time but in most of cases there are renovated roads. <br />
Spots are very easy to find, just head in the right direction and you will find a suitable place to stand. Sometimes if luck isn't on your side though and you may have to wait for a while and the only cars who will stop for you are ''marshrutkas'' (microbuses) which expect payment. But remain patient! Eventually someone will stop for you.<br />
<br />
Unlike most European countries, usually no one cares if you hitchhike directly on highways, so it's not a problem to find a spot.<br />
<br />
Older generations speak Russian as a foreign language, but people in their twenties and younger are able to speak more English, at least in the bigger cities. In villages even youngsters might only speak Georgian but in the last couple of years many young people from English-speaking countries have been sent to the villages to teach English. A few phrases of Russian will be handy or with a little extra effort people will be amazed if you know some Georgian.<br />
<br />
The Georgian hospitality is incredible and the most remarkable experience in this country but sometimes also a small risk as it can become a little bit pushing from time to time. Refusing alcohol can be offending for some people (if there is another person next to the driver in the car the chances are very high that the famous national drink chacha is offered to you) and if you are vegetarian, there could be a similar problem. If you're traveling as a couple, try not to be too affectionate in public places, as some people are extremely conservative and can be offended by this, and drunk guys may try to fight you (this happened to one hitchhiker after kissing his girlfriend on a marshrutka).<br />
<br />
== Border crossing ==<br />
<br />
Citizens of EU, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and many other countries don't need a visa to enter and stay in the territory of Georgia for 360 days.<br />
<br />
=== [[Abkhazia]] ===<br />
<br />
Foreigners with a valid Entry Permit can enter [[Abkhazia]] from Georgia, but have to return to Georgia. Travelling from Russia through Abkhazia towards Georgia is impossible, as you'll then be regarded as having illegally entered Georgia.<br />
<br />
=== Armenia ===<br />
<br />
There are three border crossings with [[Armenia]], through the towns of Ninotsminda (Georgia), Dmanisi (Georgia) and Bagratashen (AM)/Sadakhlo(GE). There is frequent traffic between these countries, especially between Yerevan and Tbilisi. The Bagratashen-crossing won't give you much trouble - border guards are OK and it will most probably take you less than 10 minutes to cross it.<br />
<br />
=== Turkey ===<br />
<br />
As of 2017, there are three border crossings between Georgia and Turkey, all of which are passable on foot.<br />
<br />
When arriving from the west, your likely point of entry to the country will be [[Sarp-Sarpi border crossing]] with [[Turkey]] on the Black Sea coast. That border crossing has steady traffic. The majority of truck traffic between Georgia and Turkey travels through this crossing, so it is very easy to find rides in either direction. This is the busiest border between the two countries, so it can take time to get across here. It's easy to get a ride in either direction though, just walk a few hundred metres away from each border complex and you'll be able to find a good spot.<br />
<br />
There are two other crossings further east. The first is from Türkgözü to the village of Vale and on to [[Akhaltsikhe]]. The Turkish border road is large and in good condition, and the road from the border to Akhaltsikhe is smaller, but has been repaved. This border crossing is fairly quite, but there's still a steady flow of traffic and it's easy to find a ride in either direction. <br />
<br />
[[File:Georgia-turkey-border.JPG|thumb|250px| The 2015 reopened Georgian-Turkish border close to Akhalkalaki.]]<br />
<br />
In 2015, the [[Ardahan-Akhalkalaki]] border crossing between Çıldır and Kartsakhi reopened, having been closed for the previous two decades. It is 30 kilometres from Akhalkalaki, Georgia - which is on a main trucking route to and from [[Yerevan]]. On the Turkish side, you will be 10 kilometres to Çıldır. From here, it is easy to get to [[Ardahan]] and onwards. Hitchwiki user Ben hitchhiked through this border in September 2017 and found the road on the Georgian side newly refurbished with plenty of traffic to and from Akhalkalaki including a regular flow of large trucks. On the Turkish side the highway is fresh for a few kilometres, before becoming a smaller road. Construction of a new duel carriageway is underway as of September 2017, but despite that, there's plenty of traffic. The truck driver who took Ben told him that many trucks travel from here from Georgia to Istanbul via [[Erzurum]] or the Black Sea coast at [[Hopa]]. It was a quicker hitchhike from [[Yerevan]] to the coast than hitching a ride to the border further away in [[Batumi]]. The road from Ardahan, through Artvin, to Hopa at the coast is thoroughly spectacular and switchback filled. It's well worth hitching down here purely for the scenery. The road from this border also passes the intersection to head south to [[Kars]] as well as north to the coast.<br />
<br />
=== [[Russia]] ===<br />
<br />
Since July 2011 it is also possible to cross the border to/from [[Russia]] for all passport holders at the [[Verkhny Lars-Darial Gorge border crossing]].<br />
<br />
== Sleeping ==<br />
<br />
Pitching a tent is a normal thing for the local people, forbidden only in city centres and near ruins. <br />
<br />
As usual in the former Soviet Union, it is possible to rent private rooms from local people. In any city or small town one need only go into a shop or small restaurant and ask if someone has a room. Prices start from around 10 lari, and sometimes tea and even dinner is included.<br />
<br />
Georgians are very hospitable people. When hitchhiking in the evening or at night, there is a high chance of your driver inviting you to stay at his home. If you are seen at nightfall on the outskirts of a town, villagers may literally pull you into their homes. Note that if you accept Georgian hospitality, your hosts may insist on a marathon drinking session, and you may not get much sleep before having to leave early the next morning. <br />
<br />
== Food ==<br />
<br />
It's hard to be hungry in Georgia. There's easy to find delicious and very cheap food in every city, in small villages you will be often invited to eat with locals.<br />
<br />
If you are looking for vegan options, just ask for ''samarkhvo'': this word denotes food suitable for the religious (Orthodox) fasting, that is actually completely free of meat, fish (though this is sometimes allowed), milk/cheese/dairy and eggs.<br />
<br />
== Climate ==<br />
<br />
Summer can be pretty hot in Georgia with temperatures around 35–40 °C so you'll need a lot of water and shelter from the sun. Water is easy to find and in fact most Georgians drink tap water.<br />
<br />
Winter is quite cold and snowy, especially the north parts. <br />
<br />
== Using police cars ==<br />
<br />
In Georgia it is possible to "hitchhike" with [[police]] cars. Due to the country's desire to become more European, a major reform of the police was undertaken, affecting also the way the police work and deal with people. You should not be afraid of asking policeman for information or help. Most probably they will help you and even more. You may not even need to ask, as it's not uncommon for police cars in Georgia to pick up hitchhikers, and then pull over other cars or trucks on the road to find a ride going straight to your destination. <br />
<br />
The police also provide a special type of service - they can deliver you to the address you are asking - for people who are in a position to be harmed or injured, for example when you are a foreigner and traveling alone in Georgia. They can bring you to the address you name or to a hotel. Keep in mind that you will have to fill out and sign a form. It is recommended to use this service in the evenings and nights.<br />
<br />
== Cities ==<br />
* [[Tbilisi]], the capital, also known as ''Tiflis''<br />
* [[Batumi]]<br />
* [[Gori]]<br />
* [[Kobuleti]]<br />
* [[Kutaisi]]<br />
* [[Mestia]]<br />
* [[Poti]]<br />
* [[Telavi]]<br />
* [[Vale]]<br />
* [[Zugdidi]]<br />
<br />
== Regions ==<br />
* [[Abkhazia]]<br />
* [[Adjara]]<br />
* [[Guria]]<br />
* [[Imereti]]<br />
* [[Kakheti]]<br />
* [[Kartli]]<br />
* [[Khevi]]<br />
* [[Khevsureti]]<br />
* [[Kvemo Kartli]]<br />
* [[Pshavi]]<br />
* [[Racha]]<br />
* [[Samegrelo]]<br />
* [[Samtskhe-Javakheti]]<br />
* [[Svaneti]]<br />
* [[South Ossetia]]<br />
* [[Tusheti]]<br />
{{IsIn|Western Asia}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Middle East]]<br />
[[Category:Georgia|*]]<br />
<br />
{{move_to_nomadwiki}}<br />
{{move_to_trashwiki}}<br />
<br />
[[de:Georgien]]</div>Ballenukhttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Ardahan-Akhalkalaki&diff=89297Ardahan-Akhalkalaki2017-09-27T05:13:54Z<p>Ballenuk: </p>
<hr />
<div>The '''Akhalkalaki border crossing''' connects [[Georgia (country)|Georgia]] and [[Turkey]] in the countryside. It is less than 35 km from [[Ardahan]] in Turkey, and 30 kilometres from Akhalkalaki in Georgia. Walking across this border is allowed. This border was fully refurbished and then reopened in 2015 after two decades of closure<br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
<br />
The border is not next to any big settlements and is beautifully located on the shores of Kartsakhi Lake. New roads have been built on either side of the border, so you can walk a few metres away from the border buildings in either direction and find a ride. There is a regular flow of traffic including a lot of long-distance trucks. Finding a ride is easy<br />
<br />
[[Category:Georgia]]<br />
[[Category:Turkey]]<br />
[[Category:Border crossings]]</div>Ballenukhttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Turkey&diff=89296Turkey2017-09-27T05:09:45Z<p>Ballenuk: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox Country<br />
|country = Turkey<br />
|language = Turkish<br />
|map = <map lat='39.29' lng='35' zoom='5' view='0' width='450' height='250' country='Turkey'/><br />
|capital = [[Ankara]]<br />
|pop = 71,158,647<br />
|currency = New Turkish Lira (TRY)<br />
|hitch = <rating country='tr' /><br />
|hitchbase = 196<br />
|avp = turkey<br />
|BW = TR<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''Turkey''' is an extremely hitchhiking-friendly country. Your waiting times will rarely exceed 15 minutes on reasonably used roads, even off the main roads. On smaller roads, the first vehicle passing you is likely to stop for you. Also you're very likely to be invited for tea and food, and often also to home stays. Very few people speak English, while German might be a little bit more useful, especially in the east. However, it's essential to learn at least a few words of basic [[Eastern Europe phrasebook#Turkish|Turkish]], also for your safety. Turkey has a very distinct reputation, especially when it comes to female hitchhikers, but once you get on terms with the dynamics of interacting with Turks (likely only after you make your first mistake, though) you'll usually be fine. See the Safety Chapter below.<br />
<br />
It's not very likely that drivers will ask for money, but it happens occasionally. If you feel your status as a free hitchhiker is unclear, make sure to say ''para(m) yok'' before you get into the car. On the other hand, this might offend drivers who genuinely want to help you and do not expect money.<br />
<br />
Hitchhiking at night works well as long as you stand in a somewhat visible spot.<br />
<br />
== Border crossing ==<br />
Visas can no longer be obtained on arrival, so if you are a nationality that needs a visa, be sure to buy it online in advance. See [http://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Turkey Wikivoyage] for detailed information on visa matters.<br />
<br />
==== [[Armenia]] ====<br />
Be aware of the fact that, although Turkey and [[Armenia]] share a land border, this border is ''closed'' because of continuing political issues. <br />
<br />
==== [[Bulgaria]] ====<br />
* [[Kapitan Andreevo-Kapıkule border crossing]]<br />
<br />
==== [[Georgia]] ====<br />
* [[Sarp-Sarpi border crossing]]<br />
* [[Posof]]<br />
* [[Ardahan-Akhalkalaki]]<br />
<br />
==== [[Greece]] ====<br />
* [[Ipsala]]<br />
<br />
==== [[Iran]] ====<br />
* [[Bazargan-Doğubeyazıt border crossing|Doğubeyazıt]]<br />
* [[Yuksekova-Esendere border crossing|Yuksekova]] <br />
<br />
==== Iraqi Kurdistan ====<br />
* There is one border crossing to Iraqi Kurdistan, just south of Silopi.<br />
<br />
==== [[Syria]] ====<br />
* There are a number of border crossings, but most are closed due to the ongoing unrest. In peace, the busiest one is Bab al-Hawa, connecting [[Antalya]] with [[Aleppo]].<br />
<br />
== Safety ==<br />
<br />
Turkey has been getting a bad reputation for female hitchhikers following the murder of [[Pippa]] in April 2008 and many discouraging stories, ranging from minor harassment (see Personal Experiences below) to near-miss murder/rape cases like the one [[User:Zenit|Zenit]] and the girl he was travelling with experienced in November 2011. While these things shouldn't deter anybody from travelling in Turkey, they certainly prove that there is a specific code of conduct different from any other country that needs to be respected in order to avoid unnecessary problems. It will take a little bit of travelling in the country first to get used to this different dynamic, so this will be the time to be extra cautious. Further reading for female hitchhikers – and anybody travelling in Turkey – is [http://youarealltourists.blogspot.com/2008/04/hitchhiking-guide-to-turkey-for-girls.html this blog]. Safety is always important while hitchhiking, so check the [[Hitchhiker's safety|Safety]] article before hitting the road!<br />
<br />
What follows is a list of general guidelines for hitchhiking in Turkey. Remember, however, that you cannot fully master the different dynamics of social interaction, especially between members of opposite sexes, until you've been exposed to the inital special attention you'll receive as a foreigner and possibly made some beginning's mistakes.<br />
<br />
* First of all, keep in mind that in Turkey there is widespread prejudice concerning the willingness of Western girls to engage in casual sex with random strangers. <br />
* Having said that, the biggest part of problems arise from the different conceptions of flirting in the West and in Turkey. In Turkey, making eye conctact, smiling and accepting compliments can all easily be interpreted as outright flirtateous behaviour. Another thing to watch out for is that Turkish men will test males travelling with a female to see how protective they are of their female companion. This will always be in a somewhat playful manner, and hardly ever in a threatening way. One very important thing is that a man travelling with a woman should never let her sit next to a man other than himself. This cannot be stressed enough, as drivers will read from this behaviour that a) the guy has no claims on the girl and don't really care what happens to her from this point and b) that the girl might be interested/easy.<br />
* Another important point, if one that goes somewhat without saying, is about clothing. Turkey is definitely not the place to hitchhike in hotpants and a tanktop, the least should be long trousers and a unrevealing t-shirt with sleeves down to your elbows. Anyone wearing less than this (apart from the Western coastal regions maybe) will usually be seen as a prostitute, and without the necessary language skills to explain women's rights over their own body you might get yourself into hassle you don't really need. If you want to be extra safe, you can also hitchhike with a headscarf and/or a long ("Iranian style") gown going down to your thighs and hiding your shape.<br />
* There is different things you can say about your marital status. If travelling with a guy, the classical story of the married couple can work well enough, but won't necessarily stop a determined guy from trying his chances. Also keep in mind that many truck drivers (but generally not drivers of private cars) know that foreign hitchhikers tend to lie about their status as married couples. This might actually encourage some truck drivers to try his luck even if in the first point they never intended anything at all. If travelling alone as a girl, it seems to be safer to say that you are unmarried - meaning, for most people, a virgin. The purity of virginity is widely respected and can provide protection. You can usefully combine both of these strategies (if travelling in a couple) by saying that you're cousins because a) you will be seen as a unmarried virgin, b) male relatives traditionally protect unmarried female family members and c) a cousin might at some point also have been picked by the family to be a future husband to the girl.<br />
* Something that plays into the dynamics of hitchhiking in Turkey as well are the mostly Russian/Eastern European prostitutes that can be found practicing their trade all over Turkey. As a girl hitchhiking, be it alone or in company, you will at some point likely be confused with one of the working ladies. As an effect of many of those girls being Russian, the words "rus" or "natasha" have come to mean "foreign prostitute". If your driver says any of those words, he's most likely asking if you're a prostitute. Make very very clear that you have nothing to do with this, say ''yok'' very clearly without hesitating, smiling, laughing, or any other even remotely flirtateous reaction. Be insulted. Likewise it's not a very good idea to say that you're Russian or even from any Eastern European country that could be associated with Russia, especially Ukraine. If the driver has understood that you're not a prostitute, he'll usually not bother you about it any more.<br />
* There is one main Turkish hand gesture that leads to confusion among foreigners. It is indeed extremely ambiguous, used in very different situations and complicated to understand in its context. It consists of the index fingers of both hands rubbed against each other back and forth. Some important meanings of it include casual sex, friendship, physical contact, geographical closeness of objects or places, money, etc. You see that the meaning can range from explaining how to get somewhere or explaining that driver is going close to your destination to asking for casual sex. Nothing more can be said than to use your common sense and not to be overly paranoid.<br />
* When it comes to accepting rides, listen to your intuition and don't worry about being picky. Remember that even if you say no to several cars you'll still not wait very long.<br />
* To finish, a brief list of useful vocabulary in difficult situations. Check out the pronounication guide in the [[Eastern Europe phrasebook#Turkish|Turkish phrasebook]].<br />
:* ''çok ayıp'' - lit. "big shame", the most useful thing to say if somebody is harrassing you (sexual or not.)<br />
:* ''Allah akşina'' - lit. "for Allah's love", i.e. for God's sake<br />
:* ''bakire'' - "virgin"<br />
:* ''kuzen'' - "cousin", ''biz kuzen'' - "we are cousins"<br />
:* ''evli'' - "married"<br />
<br />
As a brief summary: As a girl, be aware of your body language - smiling, eye contact, being flattered by compliments are all bad ideas. As a guy hitchhiking with a girl, stand your ground, show presence; always make sure to sit next to the driver. If the driver talks mostly to the girl, it's a bad sign. Girls should dress modestly and make sure not to be confused with Russian prostitutes ("rus", "natasha"). Be picky about your rides. Most importantly though, keep in mind that in 99% of the cases all will be fine, especially if you pay attention to those guidelines!<br />
<br />
As a guy travelling with a girl it is rare that you will be hit on with the notable exception of the far Eastern part of the country. However travelling alone as a guy you will/might be asked for sex depending not so much on your attractiveness in the Western sense as on how exotic you are (i.e. being big and blond will most likely increase the level of attention). Keep in mind that just even if a guy asks you to have sex with him it does not necessarily mean he's gay. Especially in Eastern Turkey it's very common among unmarried straight men to engage in casual sex among each other as an effect of an extremely conservative society and sometimes horrible ramifications for girls having pre-maritial sex. However other than the nuisance of being asked for sex you're unlikely to run into any problems.<br />
<br />
== Climate ==<br />
[[File:Erzurum.JPG|thumb|250px|In [[winter]] it can be cold.]]<br />
During the summer temperatures tend to rise above 35&nbsp;°C, especially in the South, so it is recommended to secure yourself with sufficient supplies of water, and to plan travelling in a way that most of the actual hitchhiking would be earlier in the morning or in very late afternoon, to avoid a burning sun.<br />
<br />
In [[winter]], though, it can be quite cold in Turkey. As long as you stick to the south coast, you'll be able to have a swim in the Aegean any sunny winter day. On some places it's just hitching 100km north into the mountains and you'll see snow too!<br />
<br />
=== Hitchhiking buses ===<br />
[[File:Mikeeg555 hitching in Turkey.jpg|thumb|250px|left|[[User:Mikeeg555|Mikeeg555]] hitching in Turkey]]<br />
While waiting beside the road, town-to-town minibus drivers (which can be recognized by banners proclaiming town names all over) and intercity buses will flash their headlights or honk at you — to ask whether you'd like a ride (for a fee, of course). Don't be afraid to stop them and say "''Param yok'' (which literally translates "I don't have money"), it's ok?". A couple of hitchhikers did this when a bus stopped beside them to drop a passenger, and then they kept doing this everytime, and about 30% of the buses gave them a ride. [[User:Sirrdc|Sirrdc]] also had great success hitchhiking on intercity buses. Inside the cities, it's even easier; ask them politely and they will take you a bit further ahead.<br />
<br />
== Food and sleep ==<br />
Take a look at the [http://nomadwiki.org/en/Turkey Nomadwiki] article for this!<br />
[[File:turkeyhitch.jpg|thumb|350px|[[User:Chael777|Chael]]<small><sup>[http://www.velabas.com/ site]</sup></small> hitching south to Bodrum, April 2008]]<br />
<br />
== Cities and License plates ==<br />
<br />
{{Cities Turkey}}<br />
<br />
The first two numbers of the Turkish car plates indicate the city a car is registered in. These are sorted from 1 to 81 alphabetically. This rule is not applicable for villages that recently received the status of cities.<br />
<br />
The number is given to a whole province, e.g. [[Antalya]] and [[Alanya]] are both 07, as they are situated in the same province (Antalya Province).<br />
<br />
[[File:Turkish-truck-and-truck-driver-2008.jpg|thumb|right|350px|A truck, the driver, a boy working at the gas station and [[User:Guaka|guaka]], somewhere between [[Ankara]] and [[Gaziantep]] October 2008]]<br />
<table border="0"><tr><td><br />
* 01 [[Adana]]<br />
* 02 [[Adıyaman]]<br />
* 03 [[Afyonkarahisar]]<br />
* 04 [[Ağrı]]<br />
* 05 [[Amasya]]<br />
* 06 [[Ankara]]<br />
* 07 [[Antalya]]<br />
* 08 [[Artvin]]<br />
* 09 [[Aydın]]<br />
* 10 [[Balıkesir]]<br />
* 11 [[Bilecik]]<br />
* 12 [[Bingöl]]<br />
* 13 [[Bitlis]]<br />
* 14 [[Bolu]]<br />
* 15 [[Burdur]]<br />
* 16 [[Bursa]]<br />
* 17 [[Çanakkale]]<br />
* 18 [[Çankırı]]<br />
* 19 [[Çorum]]<br />
* 20 [[Denizli]]<br />
* 21 [[Diyarbakır]]<br />
* 22 [[Edirne]]<br />
* 23 [[Elazığ]]<br />
* 24 [[Erzincan]]<br />
* 25 [[Erzurum]]<br />
* 26 [[Eskişehir]]<br />
* 27 [[Gaziantep]]<br />
</td><td><br />
* 28 [[Giresun]]<br />
* 29 [[Gümüşhane]]<br />
* 30 [[Hakkari]]<br />
* 31 [[Hatay]]<br />
* 32 [[Isparta]]<br />
* 33 [[Mersin]]<br />
* 34 [[Istanbul]]<br />
* 35 [[Izmir]]<br />
* 36 [[Kars]]<br />
* 37 [[Kastamonu]]<br />
* 38 [[Kayseri]]<br />
* 39 [[Kırklareli]]<br />
* 40 [[Kırşehir]]<br />
* 41 [[Kocaeli]]<br />
* 42 [[Konya]]<br />
* 43 [[Kütahya]]<br />
* 44 [[Malatya]]<br />
* 45 [[Manisa]]<br />
* 46 [[Kahramanmaraş]]<br />
* 47 [[Mardin]]<br />
* 48 [[Muğla]]<br />
* 49 [[Muş]]<br />
* 50 [[Nevsehir|Nevşehir]]<br />
* 51 [[Niğde]]<br />
* 52 [[Ordu]]<br />
* 53 [[Rize]]<br />
* 54 [[Adapazari|Sakarya]]<br />
</td><td><br />
* 55 [[Samsun]]<br />
* 56 [[Siirt]]<br />
* 57 [[Sinop]]<br />
* 58 [[Sivas]]<br />
* 59 [[Tekirdağ]]<br />
* 60 [[Tokat]]<br />
* 61 [[Trabzon]]<br />
* 62 [[Tunceli]]<br />
* 63 [[Urfa|Şanlıurfa]]<br />
* 64 [[Uşak]]<br />
* 65 [[Van]]<br />
* 66 [[Yozgat]]<br />
* 67 [[Zonguldak]]<br />
* 68 [[Aksaray]]<br />
* 69 [[Bayburt]]<br />
* 70 [[Karaman]]<br />
* 71 [[Kırıkkale]]<br />
* 72 [[Batman]]<br />
* 73 [[Sirnak|Şırnak]]<br />
* 74 [[Bartın]]<br />
* 75 [[Ardahan]]<br />
* 76 [[Iğdır]]<br />
* 77 [[Yalova]]<br />
* 78 [[Karabük]]<br />
* 79 [[Kilis]]<br />
* 80 [[Osmaniye]]<br />
* 81 [[Düzce]]<br />
</td></tr></table><br />
<br />
== Regions and Their Hitchability ==<br />
<br />
While in general it is fairly easy to attract a lift in Turkey, locals' view of hitchhikers vary across the country. In general, people in northern and inland regions of the country are friendlier towards hitchhikers. If put systematically, the level of ease to get a lift in various regions of the country is as follows in general, from easiest to hardest:<br />
<br />
:Southeastern Anatolia (usually the first car passing by offering a lift) > North coast (Black Sea Region) (one in every ten cars offering a lift) > Northwest/European Turkey (Thrace) (most waits not exceeding 5 mins) > Inland steppes (Central Anatolia, longest waits likely ~20 mins) > Northwest/Asian Marmara (South Marmara) > Aegean Region > Southwest coast (Lycia) > Rest of Mediterranean coast (expect waits up to two hours!), with eastern mountains (Eastern Anatolia) perhaps falling somewhere between Central Anatolia and South Marmara.<br />
<br />
As can be clearly seen, less touristy somewhere is, easier to attract a lift there. That being said, however, there are of course helpful drivers on the highways of the south, too, although they seem to be exceptions rather than the rule.<br />
<br />
* [[:Category:Antalya (Province)|Antalya Province]]<br />
* [[:Category:Çanakkale (Province)|Çanakkale Province]]<br />
* [[Cappadocia]] <br />
* [[:Category:Muğla (Province)|Muğla Province]]<br />
* [[:Category:Southeastern Anatolia|Southeastern Anatolia]] <br />
<br />
== Personal Experiences ==<br />
<br />
Some recent thoughts and reflections about hitchhiking Turkey as a solo female: http://shelobify.wordpress.com/2013/01/04/an-update-about-hitchhiking-solo-as-a-female-in-turkey/<br />
<br />
:''My friend and I (both female) hitched through Turkey from the Greek border to Cappadocia and it was quite stressful. We never waited long for a ride and most of the people we rode with insisted on buying us chai (just tea) and meals. However, I would say that with about 90 percent of our rides we got our butts, boobs, or crotches grabbed, or at least asked for sex. We had to make our driver leave us on the side of the road a lot in the middle of nowhere so that was kinda dangerous. And it took us about 10 hours to make it 25 miles from just before Istanbul to just past the city. People kept trying to take us into the city or someplace we didn't want to go. We were so glad when we finally made it out of Turkey at the Bulgarian border. It was an adventure though and I would recommend traveling through Turkey, just be aware that all of the other women standing on the side of the road are prostitutes. It was all just a giant misunderstanding and a lack of respect, to some extent, on our part, for the local culture. When hitching here maybe you can learn how to say "we are just traveling and we aren't looking for sex may we still have a ride" before getting in a vehicle. For the record, our drivers always let us out when we told them too and nothing dramatic happened beyond the daily grabbings.''<br />
<br />
:''I have just finished my second two-week trip alone through Turkey just hitchhiking, and my experience has not been at all like the above. I was quite shocked when I read it! I was traveling for long distances almost every day and I must have hitched with over fifty drivers – and only one of those drivers touched me apart from to shake my hand, and I was asked for sex twice, relatively politely, and both accepted no as an answer. I was treated with courtesy, respect, generosity, kindness, invites home to meet their families, and yes, tea and oranges. Also people kept buying me bus tickets rather than 'letting' me hitchhike on, which was horribly embarrassing! I think people who picked me up probably did consider that I might be a prostitute, but easily accepted that I wasn't judging on behavior. I suspect that experiences like the above depend on inappropriate behaviour or dress, or horribly bad luck. I don't speak Turkish, so sometimes it was a bit boring, which was probably the worst thing about hitchhiking. I would recommend not understanding the questions about whether you're alone or married- not speaking Turkish can actually help! And also be aware that Turkish women hitchhiking sit in the back seat of cars, same as in taxis.''<br />
<br />
:''I hitch-hiked with a male friend for 3.5 weeks in Turkey. We started from Istanbul, to Safranbolu, Yozgat, Malatya, Nemrut Daig, Cappadocia, Kalkan and back to Istanbul. I was asked to have sex with the bus conductor after one of the bus conductor invited us to take us and he found out that my friend and I are just friends traveling together. Well, that's just a minor issue. We got picked up by an old man when we were hitch-hiking from Cappadocia to Nemrut Dagi. The old man had only 2 fingers on his right hand, and he was driving at the speed of 150 km/h, drinking tea and talking over the phone while my friend and I were sitting at the back! He drove us to a town nearby to do some sight-seeing and invited us to stay with his daughter's family! We ended up staying there for 3 nights. My fiend joined her husband to work while i stayed at home with the wife doing some traditional stuff! The hardest route to get a ride was probably from Antalya to Kalkan. It was late and no one wanted to pick us up! In the end, two guys who worked in a restaurant picked us up and sent us to our friend's doorstep!''<br />
<br />
:''Summer 2012 we spent hitch-hiking around Turkey. Me (male) and my girlfriend have experienced a lot of hospitality from Turkish drivers and hosts. Many times they stopped on the road and they offered us lunch/dinner. Turkish men never hardly spoke to my girlfriend (they fully respect fact that woman is in relationship with other man). Once whilst hitch-hiking the bus pull-over. We explained that we don't have money for payment - it was any problem. Another fantastic thing about hhiking in Turkey is you rarely have to wait more than 10 minutes, drivers pull-over their car on the highway and sometimes you just have to walk alongside the road and they will stop the car. Great experience, but I really recommend to go there as a mixed pair!''<br />
<br />
<br />
:"A female friend and I hitchhiked from the Georgian border to Istanbul. Turkey is one of the easiest countries in the world to hitch rides. Wait times, even in bad locations, rarely exceed ten minutes. The hitchhiking is so good that it pays to be picky about who you ride with: in Turkey you will have the privilege to turn down truck drivers in favor of faster vehicles. Although slower, most trucks will stop to offer rides. While hitchhiking at night, we were allowed to nap in the sleeping berths that long-haul trucks have. Be polite, respectful, and learn a few words of Turkish and you will have great experiences (free food, impromptu tour guides, beds to sleep in, etc.). However, you should be cautious if you are a solo female traveler, as even mild friendliness towards unrelated males will be misconstrued as flirtation." - [[User:vmpfc1|vmpfc1]]<br />
<br />
:"Hitchhiked along the Black Sea Coast from Georgia to Bulgaria. Turkey was easy enough for me even for such a huge country. There was no issue sleeping on beaches or sleeping in fields on the outskirts of towns (I always asked for permission off of security guards etc. which most private property had). The cities are really big though due to the big populations, walking out of them can take ages, especially Istanbul which is very difficult to hitchhike out of. Turks are super proud too for the most part so don't offend them and also don't urinate on the side of the road unless you are certain no-one will see (its definitely not acceptable)" - [[User:HoboSpirit|HoboSpirit]]<br />
<br />
== Links ==<br />
* [https://www.facebook.com/groups/otostopRail/ Turkish hitchhikers FB group]<br />
* [http://youarealltourists.blogspot.com/2008/04/hitchhiking-guide-to-turkey-for-girls.html Hitchhiking Guide to Turkey for girls]<br />
* [http://abgefahren.hitchbase.com/DE/blogs/alex/20090213/just-hitching-rides-journey-eid-christmas Just hitching rides: A journey from Eid to Christmas] (Hitchhiking from Yemen to Germany), abgefahren Blogs<br />
* User [[User:Halt, Stop! Reudnitz kommt.|Craig]] hitched along the Silk Road and wrote about his experiences here: [http://thumbingasia.blogspot.com/ Thumbing Asia From West to East] Turkey was big fun to hitch-hike. People are really hospitable everywhere - from Istanbul to Capaddocia, from Antep to Kurdistan!<br />
<br />
{{hitchbase_country|196}}<br />
{{Template:Europe/countries}}<br />
[[wikipedia:Turkey]]<br />
{{IsIn|Western Asia}}<br />
[[trash:Turkey]]<br />
<br />
[[Category:Turkey]]<br />
[[Category:Western Asia]]<br />
[[Category:Southern Europe]]<br />
[[Category:East Route from North Cape to Cape of Good Hope]]<br />
<br />
[[de:Türkei]]<br />
[[es:Turquia]]<br />
[[fr:Turquie]]<br />
[[pl:Turcja]]<br />
[[tr:Türkiye]]<br />
<br />
{{move_to_nomadwiki}}</div>Ballenukhttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Georgia&diff=89295Georgia2017-09-27T05:06:31Z<p>Ballenuk: </p>
<hr />
<div>''This article is about country in the Caucasus region. '''Georgia''' may also refer to [[Georgia (United States)|Georgia]], a state in the [[United States of America|USA]] among [[Georgia (disambiguation)|other places]].''<br />
<br />
{{infobox Country<br />
|country = of Georgia<br />
|map = <map lat='42.277' lng='43.824' zoom='6' view='3'/><br />
|language = Georgian is the official language. In the west of the country Mengrelian and Svan are also spoken. Abkhazia and South Ossetia each have their own languages. Russian is universally understood except by some of the young, but they usually speak English instead.<br />
|capital = [[Tbilisi]]<br />
|pop = 4,774,4732<br />
|currency = Lari ( GEL )<br />
|hitch = <rating country='ge' /><br />
}}<br />
<br />
[[File:Georgia.jpeg|thumb|250px| Hitchhiking in Georgia.]]<br />
'''Georgia''' is a country in [[Western Asia]], that borders [[Turkey]], [[Armenia]], [[Azerbaijan]] and [[Russia]]. Two part of Georgia in the North, [[Abkhazia]] and [[South Ossetia]] are ''de facto'' independent countries though few nations recognize their independence.<br />
<br />
Hitching in Georgia is easy most of the time! Short waits and very friendly people. Road conditions in some places are quite bad so it can take some time but in most of cases there are renovated roads. <br />
Spots are very easy to find, just head in the right direction and you will find a suitable place to stand. Sometimes if luck isn't on your side though and you may have to wait for a while and the only cars who will stop for you are ''marshrutkas'' (microbuses) which expect payment. But remain patient! Eventually someone will stop for you.<br />
<br />
Unlike most European countries, usually no one cares if you hitchhike directly on highways, so it's not a problem to find a spot.<br />
<br />
Older generations speak Russian as a foreign language, but people in their twenties and younger are able to speak more English, at least in the bigger cities. In villages even youngsters might only speak Georgian but in the last couple of years many young people from English-speaking countries have been sent to the villages to teach English. A few phrases of Russian will be handy or with a little extra effort people will be amazed if you know some Georgian.<br />
<br />
The Georgian hospitality is incredible and the most remarkable experience in this country but sometimes also a small risk as it can become a little bit pushing from time to time. Refusing alcohol can be offending for some people (if there is another person next to the driver in the car the chances are very high that the famous national drink chacha is offered to you) and if you are vegetarian, there could be a similar problem. If you're traveling as a couple, try not to be too affectionate in public places, as some people are extremely conservative and can be offended by this, and drunk guys may try to fight you (this happened to one hitchhiker after kissing his girlfriend on a marshrutka).<br />
<br />
== Border crossing ==<br />
<br />
Citizens of EU, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and many other countries don't need a visa to enter and stay in the territory of Georgia for 360 days.<br />
<br />
=== [[Abkhazia]] ===<br />
<br />
Foreigners with a valid Entry Permit can enter [[Abkhazia]] from Georgia, but have to return to Georgia. Travelling from Russia through Abkhazia towards Georgia is impossible, as you'll then be regarded as having illegally entered Georgia.<br />
<br />
=== Armenia ===<br />
<br />
There are three border crossings with [[Armenia]], through the towns of Ninotsminda (Georgia), Dmanisi (Georgia) and Bagratashen (AM)/Sadakhlo(GE). There is frequent traffic between these countries, especially between Yerevan and Tbilisi. The Bagratashen-crossing won't give you much trouble - border guards are OK and it will most probably take you less than 10 minutes to cross it.<br />
<br />
=== Turkey ===<br />
<br />
As of 2017, there are three border crossings between Georgia and Turkey, all of which are passable on foot.<br />
<br />
When arriving from the west, your likely point of entry to the country will be [[Sarp-Sarpi border crossing]] with [[Turkey]] on the Black Sea coast. That border crossing has steady traffic. The majority of truck traffic between Georgia and Turkey travels through this crossing, so it is very easy to find rides in either direction. This is the busiest border between the two countries, so it can take time to get across here. It's easy to get a ride in either direction though, just walk a few hundred metres away from each border complex and you'll be able to find a good spot.<br />
<br />
There are two other crossings further east. The first is from Türkgözü to the village of Vale and on to [[Akhaltsikhe]]. The Turkish border road is large and in good condition, and the road from the border to Akhaltsikhe is smaller, but has been repaved. This border crossing is fairly quite, but there's still a steady flow of traffic and it's easy to find a ride in either direction. <br />
<br />
[[File:Georgia-turkey-border.JPG|thumb|250px| The 2015 reopened Georgian-Turkish border close to Akhalkalaki.]]<br />
<br />
In 2015, the border crossing between Çıldır and Kartsakhi reopened, having been closed for the previous two decades. It is 30 kilometres from Akhalkalaki, Georgia - which is on a main trucking route to and from [[Yerevan]]. On the Turkish side, you will be 10 kilometres to Çıldır. From here, it is easy to get to [[Ardahan]] and onwards. Hitchwiki user Ben hitchhiked through this border in September 2017 and found the road on the Georgian side newly refurbished with plenty of traffic to and from Akhalkalaki including a regular flow of large trucks. On the Turkish side the highway is fresh for a few kilometres, before becoming a smaller road. Construction of a new duel carriageway is underway as of September 2017, but despite that, there's plenty of traffic. The truck driver who took Ben told him that many trucks travel from here from Georgia to Istanbul via [[Erzurum]] or the Black Sea coast at [[Hopa]]. It was a quicker hitchhike from [[Yerevan]] to the coast than hitching a ride to the border further away in [[Batumi]]. The road from Ardahan, through Artvin, to Hopa at the coast is thoroughly spectacular and switchback filled. It's well worth hitching down here purely for the scenery. The road from this border also passes the intersection to head south to [[Kars]] as well as north to the coast.<br />
<br />
=== [[Russia]] ===<br />
<br />
Since July 2011 it is also possible to cross the border to/from [[Russia]] for all passport holders at the [[Verkhny Lars-Darial Gorge border crossing]].<br />
<br />
== Sleeping ==<br />
<br />
Pitching a tent is a normal thing for the local people, forbidden only in city centres and near ruins. <br />
<br />
As usual in the former Soviet Union, it is possible to rent private rooms from local people. In any city or small town one need only go into a shop or small restaurant and ask if someone has a room. Prices start from around 10 lari, and sometimes tea and even dinner is included.<br />
<br />
Georgians are very hospitable people. When hitchhiking in the evening or at night, there is a high chance of your driver inviting you to stay at his home. If you are seen at nightfall on the outskirts of a town, villagers may literally pull you into their homes. Note that if you accept Georgian hospitality, your hosts may insist on a marathon drinking session, and you may not get much sleep before having to leave early the next morning. <br />
<br />
== Food ==<br />
<br />
It's hard to be hungry in Georgia. There's easy to find delicious and very cheap food in every city, in small villages you will be often invited to eat with locals.<br />
<br />
If you are looking for vegan options, just ask for ''samarkhvo'': this word denotes food suitable for the religious (Orthodox) fasting, that is actually completely free of meat, fish (though this is sometimes allowed), milk/cheese/dairy and eggs.<br />
<br />
== Climate ==<br />
<br />
Summer can be pretty hot in Georgia with temperatures around 35–40 °C so you'll need a lot of water and shelter from the sun. Water is easy to find and in fact most Georgians drink tap water.<br />
<br />
Winter is quite cold and snowy, especially the north parts. <br />
<br />
== Using police cars ==<br />
<br />
In Georgia it is possible to "hitchhike" with [[police]] cars. Due to the country's desire to become more European, a major reform of the police was undertaken, affecting also the way the police work and deal with people. You should not be afraid of asking policeman for information or help. Most probably they will help you and even more. You may not even need to ask, as it's not uncommon for police cars in Georgia to pick up hitchhikers, and then pull over other cars or trucks on the road to find a ride going straight to your destination. <br />
<br />
The police also provide a special type of service - they can deliver you to the address you are asking - for people who are in a position to be harmed or injured, for example when you are a foreigner and traveling alone in Georgia. They can bring you to the address you name or to a hotel. Keep in mind that you will have to fill out and sign a form. It is recommended to use this service in the evenings and nights.<br />
<br />
== Cities ==<br />
* [[Tbilisi]], the capital, also known as ''Tiflis''<br />
* [[Batumi]]<br />
* [[Gori]]<br />
* [[Kobuleti]]<br />
* [[Kutaisi]]<br />
* [[Mestia]]<br />
* [[Poti]]<br />
* [[Telavi]]<br />
* [[Vale]]<br />
* [[Zugdidi]]<br />
<br />
== Regions ==<br />
* [[Abkhazia]]<br />
* [[Adjara]]<br />
* [[Guria]]<br />
* [[Imereti]]<br />
* [[Kakheti]]<br />
* [[Kartli]]<br />
* [[Khevi]]<br />
* [[Khevsureti]]<br />
* [[Kvemo Kartli]]<br />
* [[Pshavi]]<br />
* [[Racha]]<br />
* [[Samegrelo]]<br />
* [[Samtskhe-Javakheti]]<br />
* [[Svaneti]]<br />
* [[South Ossetia]]<br />
* [[Tusheti]]<br />
{{IsIn|Western Asia}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Middle East]]<br />
[[Category:Georgia|*]]<br />
<br />
{{move_to_nomadwiki}}<br />
{{move_to_trashwiki}}<br />
<br />
[[de:Georgien]]</div>Ballenukhttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=File:Georgia-turkey-border.JPG&diff=89294File:Georgia-turkey-border.JPG2017-09-27T04:55:53Z<p>Ballenuk: </p>
<hr />
<div>The border that opened in 2015 between Georgia and Turkey, close to Akhalkalaki and Ardahan.</div>Ballenukhttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Georgia&diff=89208Georgia2017-09-13T03:41:15Z<p>Ballenuk: </p>
<hr />
<div>''This article is about country in the Caucasus region. '''Georgia''' may also refer to [[Georgia (United States)|Georgia]], a state in the [[United States of America|USA]] among [[Georgia (disambiguation)|other places]].''<br />
<br />
{{infobox Country<br />
|country = of Georgia<br />
|map = <map lat='42.277' lng='43.824' zoom='6' view='3'/><br />
|language = Georgian is the official language. In the west of the country Mengrelian and Svan are also spoken. Abkhazia and South Ossetia each have their own languages. Russian is universally understood except by some of the young, but they usually speak English instead.<br />
|capital = [[Tbilisi]]<br />
|pop = 4,774,4732<br />
|currency = Lari ( GEL )<br />
|hitch = <rating country='ge' /><br />
}}<br />
<br />
[[File:Georgia.jpeg|thumb|250px| Hitchhiking in Georgia.]]<br />
'''Georgia''' is a country in [[Western Asia]], that borders [[Turkey]], [[Armenia]], [[Azerbaijan]] and [[Russia]]. Two part of Georgia in the North, [[Abkhazia]] and [[South Ossetia]] are ''de facto'' independent countries though few nations recognize their independence.<br />
<br />
Hitching in Georgia is easy most of the time! Short waits and very friendly people. Road conditions in some places are quite bad so it can take some time but in most of cases there are renovated roads. <br />
Spots are very easy to find, just head in the right direction and you will find a suitable place to stand. Sometimes if luck isn't on your side though and you may have to wait for a while and the only cars who will stop for you are ''marshrutkas'' (microbuses) which expect payment. But remain patient! Eventually someone will stop for you.<br />
<br />
Unlike most European countries, usually no one cares if you hitchhike directly on highways, so it's not a problem to find a spot.<br />
<br />
Older generations speak Russian as a foreign language, but people in their twenties and younger are able to speak more English, at least in the bigger cities. In villages even youngsters might only speak Georgian but in the last couple of years many young people from English-speaking countries have been sent to the villages to teach English. A few phrases of Russian will be handy or with a little extra effort people will be amazed if you know some Georgian.<br />
<br />
The Georgian hospitality is incredible and the most remarkable experience in this country but sometimes also a small risk as it can become a little bit pushing from time to time. Refusing alcohol can be offending for some people (if there is another person next to the driver in the car the chances are very high that the famous national drink chacha is offered to you) and if you are vegetarian, there could be a similar problem. If you're traveling as a couple, try not to be too affectionate in public places, as some people are extremely conservative and can be offended by this, and drunk guys may try to fight you (this happened to one hitchhiker after kissing his girlfriend on a marshrutka).<br />
<br />
== Border crossing ==<br />
<br />
Citizens of EU, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and many other countries don't need a visa to enter and stay in the territory of Georgia for 360 days.<br />
<br />
=== [[Abkhazia]] ===<br />
<br />
Foreigners with a valid Entry Permit can enter [[Abkhazia]] from Georgia, but have to return to Georgia. Travelling from Russia through Abkhazia towards Georgia is impossible, as you'll then be regarded as having illegally entered Georgia.<br />
<br />
=== Armenia ===<br />
<br />
There are three border crossings with [[Armenia]], through the towns of Ninotsminda (Georgia), Dmanisi (Georgia) and Bagratashen (AM)/Sadakhlo(GE). There is frequent traffic between these countries, especially between Yerevan and Tbilisi. The Bagratashen-crossing won't give you much trouble - border guards are OK and it will most probably take you less than 10 minutes to cross it.<br />
<br />
=== Turkey ===<br />
<br />
When arriving from the west, your likely point of entry to the country will be [[Sarp-Sarpi border crossing]] with [[Turkey]] on the Black Sea coast. That border crossing has steady traffic and it's possible to cross the border on foot. The majority of truck traffic between Georgia and Turkey travels through this crossing, so it is very easy to find rides in either direction.<br />
<br />
There are two other crossings further east. The first is from Türkgözü to the village of Vale and on to [[Akhaltsikhe]]. The Turkish border road is large and in good condition, and the road from the border to Akhaltsikhe is smaller, but has been repaved and handles plenty of traffic.<br />
<br />
In 2015, the border crossing between Çıldır and Kartsakhi reopened, having been closed for the previous two decades. It is a smaller, quieter crossing and brings you out 30 kilometres from Akhalkalaki, Georgia - which is on a main trucking route to and from [[Yerevan]]. On the Turkish side, you will be 10 kilometres to Çıldır, and the road is new. From here, it is easy to get to [[Ardahan]] and onwards.<br />
<br />
=== [[Russia]] ===<br />
<br />
Since July 2011 it is also possible to cross the border to/from [[Russia]] for all passport holders at the [[Verkhny Lars-Darial Gorge border crossing]].<br />
<br />
== Sleeping ==<br />
<br />
Pitching a tent is a normal thing for the local people, forbidden only in city centres and near ruins. <br />
<br />
As usual in the former Soviet Union, it is possible to rent private rooms from local people. In any city or small town one need only go into a shop or small restaurant and ask if someone has a room. Prices start from around 10 lari, and sometimes tea and even dinner is included.<br />
<br />
Georgians are very hospitable people. When hitchhiking in the evening or at night, there is a high chance of your driver inviting you to stay at his home. If you are seen at nightfall on the outskirts of a town, villagers may literally pull you into their homes. Note that if you accept Georgian hospitality, your hosts may insist on a marathon drinking session, and you may not get much sleep before having to leave early the next morning. <br />
<br />
== Food ==<br />
<br />
It's hard to be hungry in Georgia. There's easy to find delicious and very cheap food in every city, in small villages you will be often invited to eat with locals.<br />
<br />
If you are looking for vegan options, just ask for ''samarkhvo'': this word denotes food suitable for the religious (Orthodox) fasting, that is actually completely free of meat, fish (though this is sometimes allowed), milk/cheese/dairy and eggs.<br />
<br />
== Climate ==<br />
<br />
Summer can be pretty hot in Georgia with temperatures around 35–40 °C so you'll need a lot of water and shelter from the sun. Water is easy to find and in fact most Georgians drink tap water.<br />
<br />
Winter is quite cold and snowy, especially the north parts. <br />
<br />
== Using police cars ==<br />
<br />
In Georgia it is possible to "hitchhike" with [[police]] cars. Due to the country's desire to become more European, a major reform of the police was undertaken, affecting also the way the police work and deal with people. You should not be afraid of asking policeman for information or help. Most probably they will help you and even more. You may not even need to ask, as it's not uncommon for police cars in Georgia to pick up hitchhikers, and then pull over other cars or trucks on the road to find a ride going straight to your destination. <br />
<br />
The police also provide a special type of service - they can deliver you to the address you are asking - for people who are in a position to be harmed or injured, for example when you are a foreigner and traveling alone in Georgia. They can bring you to the address you name or to a hotel. Keep in mind that you will have to fill out and sign a form. It is recommended to use this service in the evenings and nights.<br />
<br />
== Cities ==<br />
* [[Tbilisi]], the capital, also known as ''Tiflis''<br />
* [[Batumi]]<br />
* [[Gori]]<br />
* [[Kobuleti]]<br />
* [[Kutaisi]]<br />
* [[Mestia]]<br />
* [[Poti]]<br />
* [[Telavi]]<br />
* [[Vale]]<br />
* [[Zugdidi]]<br />
<br />
== Regions ==<br />
* [[Abkhazia]]<br />
* [[Adjara]]<br />
* [[Guria]]<br />
* [[Imereti]]<br />
* [[Kakheti]]<br />
* [[Kartli]]<br />
* [[Khevi]]<br />
* [[Khevsureti]]<br />
* [[Kvemo Kartli]]<br />
* [[Pshavi]]<br />
* [[Racha]]<br />
* [[Samegrelo]]<br />
* [[Samtskhe-Javakheti]]<br />
* [[Svaneti]]<br />
* [[South Ossetia]]<br />
* [[Tusheti]]<br />
{{IsIn|Western Asia}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Middle East]]<br />
[[Category:Georgia|*]]<br />
<br />
{{move_to_nomadwiki}}<br />
{{move_to_trashwiki}}<br />
<br />
[[de:Georgien]]</div>Ballenukhttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Sivas&diff=87769Sivas2017-04-25T03:39:41Z<p>Ballenuk: </p>
<hr />
<div>Sivas is a city in central [[Turkey]]. <br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
<br />
=== North/South/West/East towards [[Ankara]], [[Elbistan]], [[Malatya]], [[Erzincan]], [[Tokat]] ===<br />
<br />
Sivas is actually an ideal city for hitchhiking out of. One spot serves all directions. On the southern edge of the city is a big roundabout where the E88 passes by the city, and intersects the D850 road. It's also right next to the central Otogar (bus station) in the unlikely event that you have trouble finding a ride.<br />
<br />
If you're heading south, stay on the roundabout level, and at the end of the roundabout you can hitch a ride easily towards Malatya or Elbistan. To go any other direction, simply walk up the on-ramp in the direction of your choice and start thumbing a ride from there.<br />
<br />
Walking from this location to the centre of the city takes around 25-30 minutes.</div>Ballenukhttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Sivas&diff=87768Sivas2017-04-25T03:38:51Z<p>Ballenuk: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''{{Sivas}}''' is a city in central [[Turkey]]. <br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
<br />
=== North/South/West/East towards [[Ankara]], [[Elbistan]], [[Malatya]], [[Erzincan]], [[Tokat]] ===<br />
<br />
Sivas is actually an ideal city for hitchhiking out of. One spot serves all directions. On the southern edge of the city is a big roundabout where the E88 passes by the city, and intersects the D850 road. It's also right next to the central Otogar (bus station) in the unlikely event that you have trouble finding a ride.<br />
<br />
If you're heading south, stay on the roundabout level, and at the end of the roundabout you can hitch a ride easily towards Malatya or Elbistan. To go any other direction, simply walk up the on-ramp in the direction of your choice and start thumbing a ride from there.<br />
<br />
Walking from this location to the centre of the city takes around 25-30 minutes.</div>Ballenukhttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Elaz%C4%B1%C4%9F&diff=85686Elazığ2017-03-23T07:16:05Z<p>Ballenuk: </p>
<hr />
<div>[[Elazığ]] is a city in [[Eastern Anatolia]], [[Turkey]]. <br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
=== West towards [[Malatya]], [[Sivas]], [[Ankara]] ===<br />
<br />
You can ask to ride in any minibus to the Malatya Road and start hitchhiking when you reach the end of the route..<br />
<br />
Although the road through Keban is shorter to Sivas than the road through Malatya, there is far less traffic, so it is less recommended.<br />
<br />
=== East towards [[Bingöl]], [[Van]] ===<br />
<br />
Take a minibus to the Gümüşkavak Mahallesi which is the last stop before the entrance to Bingöl Road.<br />
<br />
=== East towards [[Diyarbakir]] ===<br />
<br />
Take a bus marked Kızılay-Gümüşkavak and get off when the bus reaches the edge of town.</div>Ballenukhttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Elaz%C4%B1%C4%9F&diff=85685Elazığ2017-03-23T07:15:30Z<p>Ballenuk: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''{{Elazığ}}''' is a city in [[Eastern Anatolia]], [[Turkey]]. <br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
=== West towards [[Malatya]], [[Sivas]], [[Ankara]] ===<br />
<br />
You can ask to ride in any minibus to the Malatya Road and start hitchhiking when you reach the end of the route..<br />
<br />
Although the road through Keban is shorter to Sivas than the road through Malatya, there is far less traffic, so it is less recommended.<br />
<br />
=== East towards [[Bingöl]], [[Van]] ===<br />
<br />
Take a minibus to the Gümüşkavak Mahallesi which is the last stop before the entrance to Bingöl Road.<br />
<br />
=== East towards [[Diyarbakir]] ===<br />
<br />
Take a bus marked Kızılay-Gümüşkavak and get off when the bus reaches the edge of town.</div>Ballenukhttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Batman&diff=85684Batman2017-03-23T07:07:53Z<p>Ballenuk: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''Batman''' (pronounced ''baat-maan'', not like the name of the superhero) is a city in [[Southeastern Anatolia]].<br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
It’s somewhat harder to attract a ride here than the rest of Southeastern Anatolia, if you can call waiting beside the road up to 10 -yes, ten- minutes hard, that is.<br />
<br />
=== West towards [[Diyarbakir]], [[Urfa]], [[Elazığ]], [[Malatya]] ===<br />
Walk to the edge of the city on the D370 road. Once you reach the edge of the suburbs, you can start thumbing.<br />
<br />
=== Northeast towards [[Kozluk]], [[Ziyaret]], [[Bitlis]], [[Tatvan]] ===<br />
There is a roundabout at the northeastern exit of the city, with a big-box type store (named something like ''Osmar'' or ''Grosmar'') at the side. About 100 mt down the road, you can start thumbing, but it would be easier for drivers (and on their vehicles) if you walk the slightly uphill section of the road starting immediately after the roundabout and hitch on the top of the hill. It’s not such a hard walk up.<br />
<br />
You’ll possibly change cars town after town on this road, but it’s no problem to arrive at Tatvan on the shore of Lake Van (about 200 km away) before sunset (in summer) if you start hitching in Batman by 2PM.<br />
<br />
In early August 2009, there was a military checkpoint about a few km north of Batman. You’ll also see lots of abandoned checkpoints on this route. They are generally unmaned according to locals.<br />
<br />
There is also another road south of Batman heading to [[Bitlis]]/[[Tatvan]] via [[Kurtalan]]. However, according to locals, northern route through [[Kozluk]] has more traffic and thus better to hitchhike.<br />
<br />
=== South, Southwest or East towards [[Hasankeyf]], [[Mardin]], [[Midyat]], [[Iraq]], [[Siirt]] ===<br />
Batman is small, so you can easily walk to the intersection of the D370 and D955 roads on the southwestern edge of town. From there, you can begin hitchhiking in whichever direction you choose.<br />
<br />
{{isIn|Southeastern Anatolia}}<br />
<br />
[[WikiPedia:Batman,_Turkey]]<br />
<br />
[[Category:Southeastern Anatolia]]</div>Ballenukhttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Batman&diff=85683Batman2017-03-23T07:03:25Z<p>Ballenuk: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''Batman''' (pronounced ''baat-maan'', not like the name of the superhero) is a city in [[Southeastern Anatolia]].<br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
It’s somewhat harder to attract a ride here than the rest of Southeastern Anatolia, if you can call waiting beside the road up to 10 -yes, ten- minutes hard, that is.<br />
<br />
=== Northeast towards [[Kozluk]], [[Ziyaret]], [[Bitlis]], [[Tatvan]] ===<br />
There is a roundabout at the northeastern exit of the city, with a big-box type store (named something like ''Osmar'' or ''Grosmar'') at the side. About 100 mt down the road, you can start thumbing, but it would be easier for drivers (and on their vehicles) if you walk the slightly uphill section of the road starting immediately after the roundabout and hitch on the top of the hill. It’s not such a hard walk up.<br />
<br />
You’ll possibly change cars town after town on this road, but it’s no problem to arrive at Tatvan on the shore of Lake Van (about 200 km away) before sunset (in summer) if you start hitching in Batman by 2PM.<br />
<br />
In early August 2009, there was a military checkpoint about a few km north of Batman. You’ll also see lots of abandoned checkpoints on this route. They are generally unmaned according to locals.<br />
<br />
There is also another road south of Batman heading to [[Bitlis]]/[[Tatvan]] via [[Kurtalan]]. However, according to locals, northern route through [[Kozluk]] has more traffic and thus better to hitchhike.<br />
<br />
=== South, Southwest or East towards [[Hasankeyf]], [[Mardin]], [[Midyat]], [[Iraq]], [[Siirt]] ===<br />
Batman is small, so you can easily walk to the intersection of the D370 and D955 roads on the southwestern edge of town. From there, you can begin hitchhiking in whichever direction you choose.<br />
<br />
{{isIn|Southeastern Anatolia}}<br />
<br />
[[WikiPedia:Batman,_Turkey]]<br />
<br />
[[Category:Southeastern Anatolia]]</div>Ballenukhttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Urfa&diff=85636Urfa2017-03-13T13:10:58Z<p>Ballenuk: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''Şanlıurfa''' (officially, and thus signs and maps always refer to it this way) or '''Urfa''' (pre-1984 name, colloquially and locally the city is always referred in this way) is a city in [[Southeastern Anatolia]]. It lies on west-east highway '''D400''', which is assigned European highway number '''E90'''.<br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
Urfa is quite a big city, so getting to the exit on foot takes more than an hour from the city centre. The descriptions below take the ''Balıklıgöl'' ("Fish Pond") area in the old city—the most widely visited part of the city—as a starting point.<br />
<br />
=== West towards [[Gaziantep]] ===<br />
Bus #33 from the central street. Get out on bus stop "Akabe Toki".<br />
<br />
=== East towards [[Viranşehir]], [[Mardin]] (and possibly [[Zakho]] in [[Iraq]]) ===<br />
From ''Balıklıgöl'', walk towards the main highway through the city by following "Diyarbakır" and/or "Mardin" signs. After walking for about 20 minutes, you'll reach the highway. Then once along the highway, turn right towards east, still following "Diyarbakır" and "Mardin" signs. After walking a slightly uphill section and in about 45 minutes since you started at ''Balıklıgöl'', you'll reach a large roundabout - here the road to Diyarbakır forks away so from this point on just follow "Mardin" signs. You still have a further ~20 minutes to walk to get to the outlying suburbs of the city. You may start thumbing when you find a good spot with a wide shoulder at one of the traffic lights in rows, because edge of the city is still away. It's very easy to attract a ride, though, as is in the rest of Southeastern Anatolia.<br />
<br />
If all this walking makes you upset, dream that you are walking along the Silk Road—well, you actually are, as the highway—''İpek Yolu Bulvarı'', i.e. "Silk Road Boulevard"—follows the route what was once the Silk Road when through Urfa.<br />
<br />
'''Or!''' Walk like ten minutes from ''Balıklıgöl'' to the central bus station, and take a dolmus to SIRRIN. It goes really out of the city, and you can go all the way, or get off wherever you feel like.<br />
<br />
=== North towards [[Diyarbakir]] ===<br />
Modern Urfa is centred around a large crossroads/roundabout in the middle of the city. From here, catch any minibus heading to the north "Otogar" (bus station), which is located about ten minutes up the main road out of the city on the right hand side. It's officially called "Şanlıurfa Sehirler Arasi Otobus Terminali". The bus will cost 1.5TL per person. From here, walk back to the main road out of the city, and you can hitchhike from just north of the big intersection there. That spot is five minutes short of the intersection linking to the main highway (E99) that goes directly to DIyarbakir.<br />
<br />
=== South towards to [[Harran]], [[Akçakale]], [[Syria]] ===<br />
You can take the bus 64 till the end, it is going to Urfa's University. After, you can start hitchhiking or walk a little if you want.<br />
If you plan to go to the border, you will find very easily truckers to go there, if you plan to go to Harran, when you will leave the main road, HH starts to be difficult but you will find dolmus (collectives buses) for a very cheap price.<br />
French people, careful, Harran people had some troubles with french! (Feb 2012)<br />
<br />
<br />
{{isIn|Southeastern Anatolia}}<br />
<br />
[[WikiPedia:Şanlıurfa]]<br />
<br />
[[Category:Southeastern Anatolia]]<br />
[[Category:D400 (Turkey)]]<br />
[[Category:E90]]<br />
<br />
[[tr:Şanlıurfa]]</div>Ballenukhttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Gaziantep&diff=85635Gaziantep2017-03-13T13:06:53Z<p>Ballenuk: </p>
<hr />
<div>{{Infobox Location<br />
|country = Turkey<br />
|state = Gaziantep (province)<br />
|map = <map lat="37.059440000000166" lng="37.3825000000002" zoom="11" view="0" float="right" /><br />
|pop = 1.341.000<br />
|plate = 27<br />
|motorways = O-52, O-54<br />
}}<br />
<br />
'''Gaziantep''', also colloquially known as '''Antep''', is a city in [[Turkey]] close to the border with [[Syria]]. The region code is '''27'''.<br />
<br />
It's not very hard to find rides with truckers from [[Istanbul]] to Gaziantep, you just have to find the right spot.<br />
<br />
[[User:Harveypekar|harveypekar]] told his ride into the city he was coming only for the baklava, and was treated to a heroic quantity as well as being dropped off back on the highway.<br />
<br />
==Hitchhiking Out==<br />
Gaziantep is a surprisingly large city with almost 2,000,000 inhabitants, so unless you intend to stay/sightsee for a while in the city, try to get a lift that will take you further from the city when crossing west to east (i.e. [[Osmaniye]] to [[Urfa]]) and vice versa as it is likely a very long walk to the edge of the city from downtown. If you happen to cross the city west to east, keep in mind that [[Nizip]] is a good place about 40 km east of Gaziantep to get a lift to Urfa.<br />
<br />
===South towards [[Kilis]], [[Syria]]===<br />
[[User:Guaka|guaka]] did it in 2008 but doesn't remember much of the details. Maybe he even took a bus to Kilis. It looks like you have to go towards the airport.<br />
There's not much traffic south from Kilis (on the Gaziantep Kilis Yolu), so it's probably better to first get into the center of Kilis and then go South from there if you're heading to Syria.<br />
<br />
On the other side of the border is Syrian town of [[Azaz]], a very conservative place which may require some caution. See [[Azaz]] article for full details.<br />
<br />
===East towards [[Urfa]], [[Mardin]], [[Diyarbakir]]===<br />
From the city centre you can take the tram which costs around 2TL to the east end of the tracks to the "Gar" (train station). From here, you're a 5-10 minute walk to the D400 highway that goes through the city. You can see it from the Gar. Once you get to the highway you can hitch a ride out of the city to where the D400 continues on to Urfa, or leave your ride when the D400 comes close to the O52 toll highway and you can walk to that and take a ride from there. [[User:ballenuk]] hitched from the O52 just at the edge of the city where it comes within a few hundred metres of the D400 in March 2017. A car stopped within two minutes and went right to central Urfa.<br />
<br />
{{stub}}<br />
{{IsIn|Southeastern Anatolia}}<br />
[[tr:Gaziantep]]<br />
[[Category:Southeastern Anatolia]]<br />
[[Category:D400 (Turkey)]]<br />
[[Category:E90]]<br />
<br />
[[WikiPedia:Gaziantep]]</div>Ballenukhttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Urfa&diff=85634Urfa2017-03-13T13:01:26Z<p>Ballenuk: </p>
<hr />
<div>'''Şanlıurfa''' (officially, and thus signs and maps always refer to it this way) or '''Urfa''' (pre-1984 name, colloquially and locally the city is always referred in this way) is a city in [[Southeastern Anatolia]]. It lies on west-east highway '''D400''', which is assigned European highway number '''E90'''.<br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
Urfa is quite a big city, so getting to the exit on foot takes more than an hour from the city centre. The descriptions below take the ''Balıklıgöl'' ("Fish Pond") area in the old city—the most widely visited part of the city—as a starting point.<br />
<br />
=== West towards [[Gaziantep]] ===<br />
Bus #33 from the central street. Get out on bus stop "Akabe Toki".<br />
<br />
=== East towards [[Viranşehir]], [[Mardin]] (and possibly [[Zakho]] in [[Iraq]]) ===<br />
From ''Balıklıgöl'', walk towards the main highway through the city by following "Diyarbakır" and/or "Mardin" signs. After walking for about 20 minutes, you'll reach the highway. Then once along the highway, turn right towards east, still following "Diyarbakır" and "Mardin" signs. After walking a slightly uphill section and in about 45 minutes since you started at ''Balıklıgöl'', you'll reach a large roundabout - here the road to Diyarbakır forks away so from this point on just follow "Mardin" signs. You still have a further ~20 minutes to walk to get to the outlying suburbs of the city. You may start thumbing when you find a good spot with a wide shoulder at one of the traffic lights in rows, because edge of the city is still away. It's very easy to attract a ride, though, as is in the rest of Southeastern Anatolia.<br />
<br />
If all this walking makes you upset, dream that you are walking along the Silk Road—well, you actually are, as the highway—''İpek Yolu Bulvarı'', i.e. "Silk Road Boulevard"—follows the route what was once the Silk Road when through Urfa.<br />
<br />
'''Or!''' Walk like ten minutes from ''Balıklıgöl'' to the central bus station, and take a dolmus to SIRRIN. It goes really out of the city, and you can go all the way, or get off wherever you feel like.<br />
<br />
=== North towards [[Diyarbakir]] ===<br />
Modern Urfa is centred around a large crossroads/roundabout in the middle of the city. From here, catch any minibus heading to the north "Otogar" (bus station), which is located about ten minutes up the main road out of the city on the right hand side. The bus will cost 1.5TL per person. From here, walk back to the main road out of the city, and you can hitchhike from just north of the big intersection there. That spot is five minutes short of the intersection linking to the main highway (E99) that goes directly to DIyarbakir.<br />
<br />
=== South towards to [[Harran]], [[Akçakale]], [[Syria]] ===<br />
You can take the bus 64 till the end, it is going to Urfa's University. After, you can start hitchhiking or walk a little if you want.<br />
If you plan to go to the border, you will find very easily truckers to go there, if you plan to go to Harran, when you will leave the main road, HH starts to be difficult but you will find dolmus (collectives buses) for a very cheap price.<br />
French people, careful, Harran people had some troubles with french! (Feb 2012)<br />
<br />
<br />
{{isIn|Southeastern Anatolia}}<br />
<br />
[[WikiPedia:Şanlıurfa]]<br />
<br />
[[Category:Southeastern Anatolia]]<br />
[[Category:D400 (Turkey)]]<br />
[[Category:E90]]<br />
<br />
[[tr:Şanlıurfa]]</div>Ballenukhttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Urfa&diff=85633Urfa2017-03-13T12:59:29Z<p>Ballenuk: </p>
<hr />
<div><map lat='37.15320233782284' lng='38.793582916259766' zoom='13' view='0' float='right' /map><br />
<br />
'''Şanlıurfa''' (officially, and thus signs and maps always refer to it this way) or '''Urfa''' (pre-1984 name, colloquially and locally the city is always referred in this way) is a city in [[Southeastern Anatolia]]. It lies on west-east highway '''D400''', which is assigned European highway number '''E90'''.<br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
Urfa is quite a big city, so getting to the exit on foot takes more than an hour from the city centre. The descriptions below take the ''Balıklıgöl'' ("Fish Pond") area in the old city—the most widely visited part of the city—as a starting point.<br />
<br />
=== West towards [[Gaziantep]] ===<br />
Bus #33 from the central street. Get out on bus stop "Akabe Toki".<br />
<br />
=== East towards [[Viranşehir]], [[Mardin]] (and possibly [[Zakho]] in [[Iraq]]) ===<br />
From ''Balıklıgöl'', walk towards the main highway through the city by following "Diyarbakır" and/or "Mardin" signs. After walking for about 20 minutes, you'll reach the highway. Then once along the highway, turn right towards east, still following "Diyarbakır" and "Mardin" signs. After walking a slightly uphill section and in about 45 minutes since you started at ''Balıklıgöl'', you'll reach a large roundabout - here the road to Diyarbakır forks away so from this point on just follow "Mardin" signs. You still have a further ~20 minutes to walk to get to the outlying suburbs of the city. You may start thumbing when you find a good spot with a wide shoulder at one of the traffic lights in rows, because edge of the city is still away. It's very easy to attract a ride, though, as is in the rest of Southeastern Anatolia.<br />
<br />
If all this walking makes you upset, dream that you are walking along the Silk Road—well, you actually are, as the highway—''İpek Yolu Bulvarı'', i.e. "Silk Road Boulevard"—follows the route what was once the Silk Road when through Urfa.<br />
<br />
'''Or!''' Walk like ten minutes from ''Balıklıgöl'' to the central bus station, and take a dolmus to SIRRIN. It goes really out of the city, and you can go all the way, or get off wherever you feel like.<br />
<br />
=== North towards [[Diyarbakir]] ===<br />
Modern Urfa is centred around a large crossroads/roundabout in the middle of the city. From here, catch any minibus heading to the north "Otogar" (bus station), which is located about ten minutes up the main road out of the city on the right hand side. The bus will cost 1.5TL per person. From here, walk back to the main road out of the city, and you can hitchhike from just north of the big intersection there. That spot is five minutes short of the intersection linking to the main highway (E99) that goes directly to DIyarbakir.<br />
<br />
=== South towards to [[Harran]], [[Akçakale]], [[Syria]] ===<br />
You can take the bus 64 till the end, it is going to Urfa's University. After, you can start hitch-hiking or walk a little if you want.<br />
If you plan to go to the border, you will find very easily truckers to go there, if you plan to go to Harran, when you will leave the main road, HH starts to be difficult but you will find dolmus (collectives buses) for a very cheap price.<br />
French people, careful, Harran people had some troubles with french! (Feb 2012)<br />
<br />
<br />
{{isIn|Southeastern Anatolia}}<br />
<br />
[[WikiPedia:Şanlıurfa]]<br />
<br />
[[Category:Southeastern Anatolia]]<br />
[[Category:D400 (Turkey)]]<br />
[[Category:E90]]<br />
<br />
[[tr:Şanlıurfa]]</div>Ballenukhttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Urfa&diff=85632Urfa2017-03-13T12:57:51Z<p>Ballenuk: </p>
<hr />
<div><map lat='37.15320233782284' lng='38.793582916259766' zoom='13' view='0' float='right' /><br />
<br />
'''Şanlıurfa''' (officially, and thus signs and maps always refer to it this way) or '''Urfa''' (pre-1984 name, colloquially and locally the city is always referred in this way) is a city in [[Southeastern Anatolia]]. It lies on west-east highway '''D400''', which is assigned European highway number '''E90'''.<br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
Urfa is quite a big city, so getting to the exit on foot takes more than an hour from the city centre. The descriptions below take the ''Balıklıgöl'' ("Fish Pond") area in the old city—the most widely visited part of the city—as a starting point.<br />
<br />
=== West towards [[Gaziantep]] ===<br />
Bus #33 from the central street. Get out on bus stop "Akabe Toki".<br />
<br />
=== East towards [[Viranşehir]], [[Mardin]] (and possibly [[Zakho]] in [[Iraq]]) ===<br />
From ''Balıklıgöl'', walk towards the main highway through the city by following "Diyarbakır" and/or "Mardin" signs. After walking for about 20 minutes, you'll reach the highway. Then once along the highway, turn right towards east, still following "Diyarbakır" and "Mardin" signs. After walking a slightly uphill section and in about 45 minutes since you started at ''Balıklıgöl'', you'll reach a large roundabout - here the road to Diyarbakır forks away so from this point on just follow "Mardin" signs. You still have a further ~20 minutes to walk to get to the outlying suburbs of the city. You may start thumbing when you find a good spot with a wide shoulder at one of the traffic lights in rows, because edge of the city is still away. It's very easy to attract a ride, though, as is in the rest of Southeastern Anatolia.<br />
<br />
If all this walking makes you upset, dream that you are walking along the Silk Road—well, you actually are, as the highway—''İpek Yolu Bulvarı'', i.e. "Silk Road Boulevard"—follows the route what was once the Silk Road when through Urfa.<br />
<br />
'''Or!''' Walk like ten minutes from ''Balıklıgöl'' to the central bus station, and take a dolmus to SIRRIN. It goes really out of the city, and you can go all the way, or get off wherever you feel like.<br />
<br />
=== North towards [[Diyarbakir]] ===<br />
Modern Urfa is centred around a large crossroads/roundabout in the middle of the city. From here, catch any minibus heading to the north "Otogar" (bus station), which is located about ten minutes up the main road out of the city on the right hand side. The bus will cost 1.5TL per person. From here, walk back to the main road out of the city, and you can hitchhike from just north of the big intersection there. That spot is five minutes short of the intersection linking to the main highway (E99) that goes directly to DIyarbakir.<br />
<br />
=== South towards to [[Harran]], [[Akçakale]], [[Syria]] ===<br />
You can take the bus 64 till the end, it is going to Urfa's University. After, you can start hitch-hiking or walk a little if you want.<br />
If you plan to go to the border, you will find very easily truckers to go there, if you plan to go to Harran, when you will leave the main road, HH starts to be difficult but you will find dolmus (collectives buses) for a very cheap price.<br />
French people, careful, Harran people had some troubles with french! (Feb 2012)<br />
<br />
<br />
{{isIn|Southeastern Anatolia}}<br />
<br />
[[WikiPedia:Şanlıurfa]]<br />
<br />
[[Category:Southeastern Anatolia]]<br />
[[Category:D400 (Turkey)]]<br />
[[Category:E90]]<br />
<br />
[[tr:Şanlıurfa]]</div>Ballenukhttps://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Urfa&diff=85631Urfa2017-03-13T12:57:02Z<p>Ballenuk: </p>
<hr />
<div><map lat='37.15320233782284' lng='38.793582916259766' zoom='13' view='0' float='right' /><br />
<br />
'''Şanlıurfa''' (officially, and thus signs and maps always refer to it this way) or '''Urfa''' (pre-1984 name, colloquially and locally the city is always referred in this way) is a city in [[Southeastern Anatolia]]. It lies on west-east highway '''D400''', which is assigned European highway number '''E90'''.<br />
<br />
== Hitchhiking out ==<br />
Urfa is quite a big city, so getting to the exit on foot takes more than an hour from the city centre. The descriptions below take the ''Balıklıgöl'' ("Fish Pond") area in the old city—the most widely visited part of the city—as a starting point.<br />
<br />
=== West towards [[Gaziantep]] ===<br />
Bus #33 from the central street. Get out on bus stop "Akabe Toki".<br />
<br />
=== East towards [[Viranşehir]], [[Mardin]] (and possibly [[Zakho]] in [[Iraq]]) ===<br />
From ''Balıklıgöl'', walk towards the main highway through the city by following "Diyarbakır" and/or "Mardin" signs. After walking for about 20 minutes, you'll reach the highway. Then once along the highway, turn right towards east, still following "Diyarbakır" and "Mardin" signs. After walking a slightly uphill section and in about 45 minutes since you started at ''Balıklıgöl'', you'll reach a large roundabout - here the road to Diyarbakır forks away so from this point on just follow "Mardin" signs. You still have a further ~20 minutes to walk to get to the outlying suburbs of the city. You may start thumbing when you find a good spot with a wide shoulder at one of the traffic lights in rows, because edge of the city is still away. It's very easy to attract a ride, though, as is in the rest of Southeastern Anatolia.<br />
<br />
If all this walking makes you upset, dream that you are walking along the Silk Road—well, you actually are, as the highway—''İpek Yolu Bulvarı'', i.e. "Silk Road Boulevard"—follows the route what was once the Silk Road when through Urfa.<br />
<br />
'''Or!''' Walk like ten minutes from ''Balıklıgöl'' to the central bus station, and take a dolmus to SIRRIN. It goes really out of the city, and you can go all the way, or get off wherever you feel like.<br />
<br />
=== North towards [[Diyarbakir]] ===<br />
Modern Urfa is centred around a large crossroads/roundabout in the middle of the city. From here, catch any minibus heading to the north "Otogar" (bus station), which is located about ten minutes up the main road out of the city on the right hand side. The bus will cost 1.5TL per person. From here, walk back to the main road out of the city, and you can hitchhike from just north of the big intersection there. That spot is five minutes short of the intersection linking to the main highway (E99) that goes directly to DIyarbakir.<br />
<br />
== South towards to [[Harran]], [[Akçakale]], [[Syria]] ==<br />
You can take the bus 64 till the end, it is going to Urfa's University. After, you can start hitch-hiking or walk a little if you want.<br />
If you plan to go to the border, you will find very easily truckers to go there, if you plan to go to Harran, when you will leave the main road, HH starts to be difficult but you will find dolmus (collectives buses) for a very cheap price.<br />
French people, careful, Harran people had some troubles with french! (Feb 2012)<br />
<br />
<br />
{{isIn|Southeastern Anatolia}}<br />
<br />
[[WikiPedia:Şanlıurfa]]<br />
<br />
[[Category:Southeastern Anatolia]]<br />
[[Category:D400 (Turkey)]]<br />
[[Category:E90]]<br />
<br />
[[tr:Şanlıurfa]]</div>Ballenuk