In addition to the existing social values of families living in a big city, the Turkish people have retained some distinctive values of their own. One is an immense courtesy towards guests and visitors and a tendency to lavish hospitality upon them, no matter how costly. Another is an abiding respect for their family and its senior members. Another Turkish value is a strong respect for hard work and determination. And above all, there is a sense of humor and a love of life and music. One 19th century English ambassador noticed that the people of Turkey loved to sing and dance whenever they could.

Many things have changed in Turkey since his time, but not that. Hospitality is an integral part of Turkish culture. Friends, relatives, and neighbors often visit each other. The tradition of hospitality dictates that visitors are always invited in and offered something to drink and something to eat. Turks go to great lengths to make their guests feel comfortable and may even tolerate behavior that they consider inappropriate. In general, the Turkish people are open-minded, hospitable and well educated.