My excitement stems mostly from my anticipation to travel outside of the United States for the first time. Most of my friends have traveled abroad and upon returning they describe themselves as 'different' or 'changed,' which is to be expected.
I also find myself eager to try new foods, drink raki, experience a totally alien culture, and most of all to be in a place that is truly old. By no means do I expect Turkey to be primitive, underdeveloped, or savage. However, I do look forward to seeing buildings, streets, and places of worship that are older than the very country I live in.
My fears are rather basic. I fear being that American who is viewed as rude, loud, and ethnocentric; although I will make every effort to be respectful to my host country and its people. Despite my many attempts to learn a few Turkish words and phrases, the only thing I have managed to retain is merhaba, or hello. I must also confess that never having met a follower of Islam I am both curious and reluctant. Curious to know what a call for prayer is like or how they interact with the opposite sex, but reluctant because I do not wish to ask the wrong, or offensive, questions.
Overall, I am very excited for my trip to Turkey and to meet the Turkish people who will be my hosts. I look forward to this adventure and the new knowledge I will take away from it.
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