Lale September October 2010

MAGAZINE OF THE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN OF ISTANBUL

Exclusive for IWI: The Missing Rose

Kids going back to school IWI programs Pera Palace re-opened

01

September - October 2010

Contents Board Information Board Letter

2 3

about ıwı calendar regular activities

4 8 10

ıwı interest groups Programs Charity

12 16 24

Members IPWIN lale features Sponsored Articles turkısh laws 101

26 28 30 32 36

Photography Club mums ’n kids excerpts from a book other Groups and associations

38 42 50

Directory Classified ads iwi policies

54 55 56

52

the NEW IWI OFFICE

IMPORTANT DATES FOR 2010-2011 Even though we are looking forward to a relaxed summer holiday, our minds are already thinking about the 2010-2011 season. During the summer, we are going to try something a little different this year and keep our regular office hours each week. Every Wednesday, from 10.30am to 1pm, the office will be open and we encourage members and newcomers to drop in for a chat and a coffee. If you know of anyone new to Istanbul who would like to find out more about the IWI, and then let them know we are open for questions every Wednesday between 10.30 and 1.

There are 2 important dates for your diary: The Opening Meeting at the Hilton Hotel during the last two weeks of September. Date to be confirmed. Check our website and e-newsletter for details.

The Christmas Bazaar will be on Tuesday, November 30 between 12 and 4pm.

The office address is Adnan Saygun Cad., Camlitepe Sitesi, No. 74, Blok C1 / D2, Ulus, Ortaköy. (Entrance to the Site is opposite Ulus Park.)

September & October 2010

1

Board Information IWI Office Hours: Wednesday from 10:30 AM till 1:00 PM

The IWI Board members 2010-2011

Address:

Chairwoman

Joan Gottraux

chairwoman@iwi-tr.org

Adnan Saygun Caddesi, Çamlıtepe Sitesi No:74 Blok C1 / D2 Ulus Ortaköy Istanbul – TURKEY Telephone: 0534 311 96 46 / 0212 2873571 www.iwi-tr.org

Vice-Chairwoman

Esbie van Heerden

esbie@iwi-tr.org

Secretary

Suzi Kaluti

suzy@iwi-tr.org

Treasurer

Maj-Britt Riis-Hansen

treasury@iwi-tr.org

Membership Secretary

Patricia Proz

membership@iwi-tr.org

Advertising Editor & Sponsorship Coordinator

Chrissy Ramski Güleç

chrissy@iwi-tr.org

Programs Coordinator

Lilli Içgören-Zachariadou

lilli@iwi-tr.org

Charity Coordinator

Mirjam van der Lubbe

mirjam@iwi-tr.org

Volunteers Coordinator

Anne Martin

anne@iwi-tr.org

Dergi Adı/Magazine Name: Lale, Monthly Programme of the International Women of Istanbul

Yayını Yapan/Publisher:

X-mas Bazaar Coordinator Laurina van Dam

laurina@iwi-tr.org

Mums’N Kids Coordinator

Jasmine Yüzer

jasmine@iwi-tr.org

Newcomers Coordinators

Camelia Sağisman

camelia@iwi-tr.org

İrtibat Adresi/Address:

Hana Danon

hana@iwi-tr.org

Adnan Saygun Caddesi, Çamlıtepe Sitesi No:74 Blok C1 / D2 Ulus Ortaköy Istanbul – TURKEY

Petra Gönenç

petra@iwi-tr.org

Liaison Officer

Ebru Demirel

ebru@iwi-tr.org

IPWIN Coordinator

Marie Theres Raberger

ipwin.mail@gmail.com

IWI International Women of Istanbul, Dernek Kod: 34-64/027

İmtiyaz Sahibi/Licensee: Pervin Leenhouts

Adresi/Address: Tahir Paşa Evleleri No. 35 Bağlar Mevkii Yolu 80870 Yeniköy, Istanbul, Tel: 0212 299 21 46

Team members 2010-2011 Programs Team

Sorumlu Yazı İşleri Müdürü/ Responsible Editor: Kemerburgaz Mesa Evleri, Lavanta 7, D:9, 34075 Göktürk, Istanbul

nalini@iwi-tr.org

Martina Schweiher

martina@iwi-tr.org

Mehnaz Nadeem

mehnaz@iwi-tr.org

Lale Team

Güldehan Neng

guldehan@iwi-tr.org

Newcomers Team

Camelia Sağişman

camelia@iwi-tr.org

Hana Danon

hana@iwi-tr.org

Petra Gönenç

petra@iwi-tr.com

Jasmine Yüzer

jasmine@iwi-tr.org

Gigi Aksu

gigi@iwi-tr.org

Mirjam van Lubbe

mirjam@iwi-tr.org

Ann Martin

anne@iwi-tr.org

Mums N’ Kids Team Charity Team

Christmas Bazaar Team

Basım Tarihi: 16.09.2010 Sayı: 48 IPWIN Team

2

Nalini Narang

pervin@iwi-tr.org

Matbaa/Printer: Punto

tanja@iwi-tr.org

stephanie@iwi-tr.org

Tasarım/Design: Marlet Advertisement Studios www.marlet.com.tr +90 216 386 32 16

Tanja Gül

Stephanie Kansu

Yayın Türü/Issue Type: Yerel Süreli

lilli@iwi-tr.org

Pervin Leenhouts

Laily Neyzi

Adresi/Address:

Lilli Içgören-Zachariadou

Oona Mathlener

oona@iwi-tr.org

Angela Roberts-Kuzucu

angela@iwi-tr.org

Laurina van Dam

laurina@iwi-tr.org

Maj-Britt Riis-Hansen

treasury@iwi-tr.org

Astrid Traas

traasastrid@yahoo.com

Aileen Soguksu

aileensoguksu@gmail.com

Aylin Tolu

aylynntr@yahoo.com

Marie Theres Raberger

ipwin.mail@gmail.com

Cerstin Diewald

ipwin.mail@gmail.com

Kelly Hevel

ipwin.mail@gmail.com

Tennis

Sydney Yol

sydney@iwi-tr.org

Book Club Team1

Lesley Tahtakilic

lesley@iwi-tr.org

Book Club Team2

Fiona Houlton

fiona@iwi-tr.org September & October 2010

Board Letter

Dear IWI members, On behalf of IWI’s Board and all IWI coordinators and team members, we would like to welcome you to this new IWI season!

Whether you are a long time member or if you have just joined our organization, we hope you will enjoy the great array of activities and events we will offer throughout the coming year.

The IWI is an exceptional association. It is composed of women of all ages, cultures, nationalities, walks of life, professional backgrounds and interests living in Istanbul.

How amazing! It is a non-profit association which functions exclusively thanks to the dedication and voluntary involvement of its members. Its’ history goes back at least 35 years, but it was registered as a legal entity only in 1994. At that time, the founders concentrated and extended their support to the foreign spouses of Turkish nationals, by offering educational and informative programs, and continued holding a variety of social activities and events to the expatriate population. It was also then that IWI started reaching out to the local community by sponsoring child related projects, as well as projects concerning prenatal and postnatal care and many other health-related programs.

Over the years, the IWI’s focus points have evolved and changed.

The IWI strives to meet the wide-ranging interests and needs of its members. The IWI interest groups, such as Mums’ N Kids, IPWIN ( International Professional Women of Istanbul), Tennis, Bridge and Book Clubs, as well as the IWI programs which consist of cultural outings and conferences, cooking classes, health, beauty and sports oriented activities and other fun gatherings, should cover a large part of our members interests. Furthermore, IWI organizes social events such as the Christmas and end-of-the-season lunches, weekly meetings and lunches at the Newcomers Coffee Talk and monthly Neighbourhood coffee mornings (new).

of many groups as well as numerous people, combined with the financial sponsorship and donations of goods by individuals and companies, allow the IWI to support a number of local charities and projects in a variety of ways. Monetary donations are a significant part of IWI’s support, but equally important is the contribution of our volunteers who give their time and expertise throughout the year. If you wish to get involved in charity work, IWI has a wealth of volunteering opportunities waiting for you. Please take note that the Christmas Bazaar will take place at the Hilton Hotel on November 30- don’t miss this chance to get involved.

IWI is a reflection of us, women, here and now, working together and associating in a spirit of friendship, respect, tolerance and diversity, seeking to enjoy life, socializing, learning, sharing and contributing in meaningful ways. We hope the 2010 -2011 season will bring you joy and satisfaction.

If you have any new ideas, small or big, or any new ventures to suggest, don’t hesitate to contact us. IWI’s new office is located in Ulus and will be open on Wednesdays between 10:30 am and 1:00 pm, so come and visit us anytime!

Joan Gottraux IWI Chairwoman 2010-2011 chairwoman@ iwi-tr.org Esbie van Heerden IWI Vice-Chairwoman 2010-2011 esbie@ iwi-tr.org

Our website, bi-monthly e-newsletters and the Lale magazines will not only keep you updated on IWI’s activities and events, it will give you information about a wide spectrum of topics and events happening in town.

An important part of our energy is invested in serving others. The Christmas Bazaar and the Spring Ball/ End of year event are our two major charity fund-raising events. The work and dedication

September & October 2010

3

about IWI

IWI Membership Benefits IWI is a dynamic and active social organisation. Becoming a member brings many benefits

Lale Magazine:

Delivered to your doorstep six times a year, Lale magazine is the voice of IWI. It is full of interesting articles and information about our community and IWI programs as well as other groups and associations in Istanbul. We always welcome our member’s contributions to Lale so please send us your articles, photos or suggestions.

Electronic Newsletter:

Our bi-monthly e-newsletter updates you on what is happening in the IWI community, gives reminders on programs and events, the latest IWI news, classifieds and tips on unique activities in Istanbul.

members at Food & Co. Restaurant, a new venue, on Bağdat Cadessi. Everyone, including non-Asian side residents, are welcome.

Come and find out more about life in Asia!

Mums ’n Kids:

Whether you are looking for play groups, information on children in Istanbul, are pregnant or want to be involved in our many special parties celebrating Easter, Christmas, Thanksgiving and Halloween, the Mums’n’Kids group is for you. We also run a dedicated section in Lale.

IPWIN:

This successful group has been running for two years. Whether you are working, on career break or exploring opportunities in Istanbul then you should become part of this dynamic interest group. You can sign up for IPWIN notices by clicking the IPWIN box on your profile page on the internet.

iwi-tr.org:

Our re-designed website is in its second year to include a more comprehensive members’ only section. If you have changed address, telephone number or personal details, you can update your information directly. The new design also makes it easy to reserve programs and download Lale. Don't forget the check regularly for news and program updates.

Charity:

IWI is very active in the community and proudly supports a number of charities across a range of projects. Our two main fund raising events are the Christmas Bazaar, in the Hilton Hotel this November 30th, and the Spring Ball. If you would like to try your hand at event organizing or want to be part of our squad of Bazaar volunteers, let us know.

Programs:

IWI offers a full program of activities and events for diverse tastes. In any there could be a walking tour, a pot luck lunch at a member’s house, a professional women’s event, a cooking or art demonstration or a trip to the Grand Bazaar. Whenever possible, programs are listed in Lale. Otherwise, events after the Lale deadline are posted on the website and in the e-newsletter.

Please contact the program’s team if you have any suggestions for programs. We love hearing from you.

Social Events:

IWI is primarily a social organisation. Many people are familiar with our two large social gatherings, the Christmas lunch and the other in June. There are also many other occasions throughout the year where you can meet other members. Keep a look out for our coffee mornings where people from different neighbourhoods get together and for our newcomers get-together in the fall where old-timers answer questions about life in the city.

There are regular get-togethers on both European and Asian sides.

Hana Danon and Camelia Sağisman, our newcomer co-ordinators, welcome new and existing members on the European side in the Thursday coffee and lunch at Café Nunyo in Alkent Sitesi, Etiler.

Petra Gonenç, our Asian side newcomers co-ordinator, welcomes

4

IWI Directory:

Each year you will receive a directory of IWI members sorted by first name, surname and home district in a handy pocket sized book. It is surprising how useful these are to have with you.

Advertising and Sponsorship Opportunities:

Don't forget that you have access to a special target audience when you advertise your business or products through Lale, the website or the e-newsletter. IWI members get reduced advertising prices.

Other Groups in Istanbul:

There are a wide range of groups and activities that already exist in and around Istanbul which cater to a wide range of interests.

Check out the back of the Lale for complete listings. If we don't list a group or activity for a hobby or interest and you would like to start one, send us the details and we will announce it in the newsletter and online.

September & October 2010

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 30th 12 - 4 PM HILTON HOTEL CONVENTION CENTER THE IWI IS LOOKING FOR: • Sponsors • Volunteers • Donations • New gifts for the lottery and tombola • Second hand books, DVD’s, children’s toys and clothes • Food, drinks and home made cakes and salads for the food court

INFORMATION General: Laurina van Dam, laurina@iwi-tr.org, Tel : 0545 449 19 84 Volunteers: Maj-Britt Rijs-Hansen, treasury@iwi-tr.org Tel : 0533 249 31 12

Net proceeds distributed to IWI sponsored Charities. www.iwi-tr.org

about IWI

How to join IWI The International Women of Istanbul (IWI) is a registered non-profit, non-political and self-supporting social organization that brings together international women of all ages and cultures in Istanbul Application for membership is welcomed from women who hold foreign passports or who are the wives of men holding foreign passports.

When subscribing, you will be requested to submit your or your spouse’s passport, or a copy of its photo page or a scan of the latter, depending on the method of application you will choose and which are described hereafter.

The membership fee for the year 2010-2011, which runs from September to June, is 90 TL. The IWI Lale magazine will be delivered, according to your preference, either directly to your home address or to your office address, and the IWI bi-monthly e-newsletter to the e-mail address you will indicate to us.

When and where can I apply? Here are the different options: 1) You can sign-up at our Opening Meeting which will be held at the Hilton Hotel on Thursday September 23rd from 10:30am to 1:00pm. You will be required to fill in a Newcomers form and pay the fee in cash and prove your eligibility by presenting your or your spouse’s passport or a copy thereof.

2) Every Thursday, between 12:00 and 2:00 pm ( unless otherwise publicized) you may drop in to the coffee/lunch held at the Nunyo Restaurant, Alkent Sitesi, Tepecik Yolu, Etiler. Hana and Camelia, our Newcomers coordinators will be happy to welcome you. You will be required to fill in a Newcomers form, pay the fee in cash and prove your eligibility by presenting your or your spouse’s passport or a copy thereof.

6

3) If you live on the Asian side, a lunch is organised every first and third Tuesday of the month, from 11:00 am till 1:30 pm, at Food & Co. Restaurant (starting on September 7th, 2010). Food & Co. is situated on Bağdat Caddesi No 350, Erenköy at the corner of Nihat Kızıltan Sokak. As you walk down from Marks & Spencer, 400 m on the left side of Bağdat Street. The restaurant is just underneath the BODY SHOP! www.foodandco.com.tr. Phone: 0216 478 64 63. Petra, our newcomers coordinator, will be there to welcome you. You will be required to fill in a Newcomers form, pay the fee in cash and prove your eligibility by presenting your or your spouse’s passport or a copy thereof.

4) Every Wednesday morning from 10.30 am till 1.00 pm. you are welcome to come and have coffee, chat and register as a newcomer or as a renewing member at IWI’s new office. You will be required to fill in a Newcomers form, pay the fee in cash and prove your eligibility by presenting your or your spouse’s passport or a copy thereof.

5) Register anytime online and pay your fee by bank transfer. Go on our website www.iwi-tr.org ,click on sign up for Membership, fill in the form, scan a copy of your or your spouse’s passport, send it to membership@iwi-tr.org and pay your fee by bank transfer as specified on the website.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact me at membership@iwi-tr.org.

I wish you a wonderful year with IWI. Patricia Proz Membership Secretary

September & October 2010

September & October 2010

7

Programs Programs Calendar September Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21 Asian Side Coffee Morning

22

23 IWI Opening meeting @ Hilton

24

25

26

27 Hands on Greek Food Tırtıl bookstore story telling

28

29 Movie Club

30 Pakistan Food Relief Donation İstanbul @ night

October Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday 1

Saturday 2 Tırtıl craft time

Sunday 3

IWI Asianside playgroup 4 IWI Tennis

11 IWI Tennis

5 Asian Coffee Morning IWI Playgroups IPWIN 1st Tuesday

6

12 Author’s reading

13 Neighbourhood coffee morning Connection parenting talk

19 Book Club No. 2 IWI Playgroups Asian Side Coffee Morning

20 Welcome Potluck lunch

26 Make up your day

27 Movie club

IWI Playgroups

IPWIN Opening Meeting

IWI Playgroups 18 IWI Tennis

25 IWI Tennis

8

7 Alkent Coffee morning

8

9 IWI Asianside Playgroup

10

14 Alkent Coffee morning

15 Lebanese cooking demonstration

16 IWI Asianside Playgroup

17

21 Alkent Coffee morning

22 Culinary tour

23 IWI Asianside Playgroup

24

29

30 IWI Asianside Playgroup

Watercolor

Watercolor 28 Alkent Coffee morning İstanbul @ night

September & October 2010

September & October 2010

9

regular activities The Weekly Meeting Place of the IWI Café Nunyo - Alkent

Asian Side Coffee/Lunch Meeting at Food & Co

All new comers and IWI members mark your calendars for Thursdays! Our popular weekly meeting spot in Etiler welcomes you anytime between 12 noon and 2 pm for lunch, coffee and a friendly chat. Camellia and Hana, our newcomer coordinators, will be there to greet you with a smile and introduce you to the other members. We look forward to seeing you there!

Mark your calendars for our monthly coffee meeting at the new chosen place for you to discover FOOD & CO. art of eating and drinking !

Meet new members , establish new friendships or else renew existing ones in Istanbul. Food & Co. offers 10% discount for the IWI members for coffee or tea. Also if you have lunch, tea / coffee is for free.

Remember it’s the first Tuesday of the month!

Date

: See calendar for details

Date

:

See calendar for details

Time

: 12 Noon

Time

:

11:00 am

Venue

: Café Nunyo

Venue

:

FOOD & CO. Restaurant

Cost

: Pay as you order

Meeting Place

: Tepecik Yolu, Alkent Sitesi, Etiler

:

Pay as you order (with your special 10% discount)

Reservations

: Not required

Phone

:

Meeting Place

:

Bağdat Caddesi No: 350 Erenköy at the corner of Nihat Kızıltan Sokak.

If you come down from Marks&Spencer walk 400 m on the left side of Bağdat Street. The restaurant is just underneath BODY SHOP. www.foodandco.com.tr

Reservations

:

Not required

Phone

:

0216-478 64 63

10

Camellia Sağışman 0532 236 97 55 Hana Danon 0532 213 31 51

Cost

September & October 2010

regular activities NEIGHBOURHOOD COFFEE MORNING Welcome back ladies!!!! Hope you all had a fabulous summer!!!!

Well the fun is not over yet…..as we are starting a brand new and very exciting program for all of you.

It’s the NEIGHBOURHOOD COFFEE MORNINGS in your very own neighbourhood starting on WEDNESDAY 13TH of October from 10.30am to 12.30pm.

So Ladies mark this date in your diaries! Your Area-Coordinators will be getting in touch with you to inform you about the Area you belong to and who the ladies in your Neighbourhood Coffee Morning group are.

Neighbourhood Coffee Mornings will be held simultaneously in every area, every 2ND WEDNESDAY of the month. You will have the opportunity to meet the same group of ladies regularly and get to know each other better.

Please open your homes and hearts and support your Neighbourhood Coffee Mornings. You can do this by participating in the coffee mornings just once a month and encouraging others to do the same. You can also volunteer to host a coffee morning by rotation (it will be just once a year!!!!). This could be as simple as a plate of cookies with Tea /Coffee or as elaborate as you like. So please support your Area-Coordinators and make your Neighbourhood Coffee Mornings a real success!!! They will be trying their utmost to make your Neighbourhood Coffee Morning group the Best!!

Area J – Zeykiryakoy/Kilyos Area K – Kemer/Buyukcekmece/Kucukcekmece/Hadimkoy AreaL- Beyoglu/Taksim/Sultanahmet/Tunel/Harbiye/Tepebasi/ Fatih/Gumussuyu/Cehangir/Tesvikiye Area M – Atlunizade/Kadikoy/Uskudar/Moda/Kalamis Area N – Umraniye/Maltepe/Bostanci/Fenerbahce/Kartal/Tuzla/ Suadiye/ Goztepe Area O – Beykoz/Cekmekoy/Anadolu Hisari/Cavusbasi/Kandili/Kanlica/Kavacik/Cengelkoy/Beylerbei/Atasehir/Caddebostan/Erenkoy So please know your Areas and look out for further communication from us. If you do not get an email by 1st week of October, please contact me immediately.

If you wish to help out as an Area-Coordinator, please contact me as I am still looking for Coordinators for Area A, C, E, G, K, L. Looking forward to all your support in making our NEIGHBOURHOOD COFFEE MORNINGS a real success !!!!!

Nalini Narang Neighbourhood Coffee Morning Co-ordinator nalininarang@hotmail.com Mob – 05548618058 Home – 0212 344 1118

The 15 groups along with their areas are as follows : Area A – Etiler Area B – Tarabya Area C – Akatlar/Ulus Area D – Arnavutkoy/Bebek/Rumeli Hisari/Baltalimani/Maslak Area E – Ortakoy/Levazim/Balmumcu Area F – Besiktas/Levent Area G – Nisantasi/Osmanbey/Sisli/Fulya/Gayreteppe/Esenteppe Area H – Yenikoy/Istinye Area I – Emirgan/Sariyer/Buyukdere

September & October 2010

11

ıwı ınterest Groups Book Club 1 News - Book Club 1 meets once a month on a Monday morning from September to June. Meetings are held in the homes of members. Books to be read, one per month, are chosen jointly by the participants. We read a variety of books, generally new publications and mainly fiction, but we also read non-fiction and the occasional classic. This book club is currently full, although places may open up in the future.

Summer books: Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel The Other Hand/Little Bee by Chris Cleave A Short Border Handbook Gazmend Kapllani October book Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese Coordinator: Lesley Tahtakılıç tahtakilic@superonline.com

Book Club 2 News

Why not join us for a chance to discuss, explore and share books from all over the world. We meet every 3rd Tuesday of the month Venue: ‘House Cafe’ in Kanyon (Metro - LEVENT - and follow the signs through the walkway to Kanyon. The House Cafe can be found on the Ground Floor) Time: 10.30am - 12pm, Book Club 2 Coordinator: Fiona Houlton - houlton4@yahoo.com

Our club only started in February of this year and we have already devoured a wide range of books.

With such a multicultural group of members and so many experiences of living in various far away places our discussions have been lively and informative.

Members are always bringing along new books they have enjoyed for us all to share. My bookcase groans under the weight of books waiting to be read over the long hot summers by the pool or the wet and cold winters.

Chess Club

European Chess Champion and Chess Grandmaster Ekaterina Atalik is starting a chess club. Beginners, experts, children – all levels are catered for. You can contact Ekaterinea on 0533 690 4782 or on e-mail at makacat@yandex.ru.

!!!

IWI Movie Club New

Are you interested in watching movies? If you are, then join our new IWI Movie Club!! Our first morning session will be the hit movie “Wall Street2” on Wednesday, September 29. For more information log onto www.iwi-tr.org and make your reservation.

IWI Tennis

Welcoming all level of tennis players. Join us!

Every monday we meet at Enka, which is located across from Istinye Park Shopping Mall, to play 1.5 hours of tennis. Last year we had eight teams, so we are sure to have a level that is suitable for you, from beginners to intermediate to advanced. Our first term will start October 4 and finish December 13. To sign up or to learn more details please phone or e-mail.

Sydney Ellsworth-Yol 0 532 287 5611 sydneyyol@gmail.com

PCIIW

(Photography Club of Istanbul International Women) PCIIW is a group of international women with an interest in photography at all levels. We hold monthly meetings, go on monthly photo treks around Istanbul, and organize photography classes, all of which help us to discover Istanbul, make new friends, and become better photographers. Over the years we have had several exhibits. For more information, please send an email to pciiw@yahoo.com

Books we have read so far and enjoyed include: The Glass Room by Simon Mawer The Book Thief by Markus Zusak Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimananda Ngozi Adichie Fruit of the Lemon by Andrea Levy The Island by Victoria Hislop Birds Without Wings by Louis de Bernieres For our next 3 meetings we will be reading: 21st September 2010 - The Help by Kathryn Stockett 19th October 2010 - Indian Summer by Alex von Tunzelmann 16th November 2010 - The Passport by Herta Muller Why not come along and join us at our next meeting.

IWI Book Club 2 Coordinator Fiona Houlton - houlton4@yahoo.com

12

September & October 2010

Special Program:

Weekly Boat Excursion on the Bosphorus Join one of our fantastic weekly boat excursions on the Bosphorus to the Black Sea! Feel like you are on holiday in your own city! The 'IWI' International Woman of Istanbul and ‘Die Brücke’ the German Club are organizing a boat tour EVERY THURSDAY for a multicultural gathering to enjoy a nice swim at the end of the Bosphorus in one of the bays of the Black Sea. This is a highly recommended day out... try and come at least once. Friends and family are welcome, and what a great thing to do with your visitors!

Cost: The price per person for IWI members is TL 35, for nonmembers and visitors TL 40 and for children TL 20 (aged 10 and above with good swimming skills). Please bring cash.

Food and Drinks: We all contribute to a wonderful buffet style lunch: Bring one dish (if possible homemade) per person for the buffet.

Tea, coffee and water are free! Soft drinks and alcohol are available for reasonable prices.

Departure Details: »» »» »» »»

9:30 am - Tarabya (in front of the hotel construction) 10:00 am - Bebek (opposite the BP petrol station) 10:15 am - Kandilli (next to the regular boat jetty) The boat will return around 6 pm!

For reservations call: European side: Camelia Sağisman 0532-236 9755 or Lilli İçgören 0536-600 00 11 Asian side: Petra F. Gönenç 0532-275 4219 or Naz Ergün 0532-432 6308

*The deadline for reservations is Tuesday 15.00 hours!! (If you cancel after this time, we have to charge half of the daily fee to you as the number of participants has to be fixed in advance. Thank you for understanding!)

September & October 2010

13

14

September & October 2010

September & October 2010

15

programs EXCLU SIV for IW E I memb ers!

Author’s Reading

THE MISSING ROSE by Serdar Özkan Successfully representing contemporary Turkish Literature in the international arena, Serdar Özkan’s debut novel, „The Missing Rose“, has been translated into 29 languages to date, making Serdar Özkan the most translated Turkish novelist after Orhan Pamuk and Yasar Kemal.

Entering bestseller lists as the No.1 bestselling foreign fiction in various countries, “The Missing Rose” has remained on bestseller lists for weeks.

Serdar Özkan

“At that time, we couldn’t foresee the disaster this situation would lead us to. Soon after Those-like-Mary had all gone, little by little, we began to metamorphose into what Others valued, in the hope of earning their love. And because it was only our external features that they’d valued, we became more and more concerned with our looks. We strove to stand up straight like the artificial roses, we tried to extend the time our leaves stayed on us. We didn’t even weep during emotional times so our petals wouldn’t become wrinkled.

And soon, out of neglect to preserve it, our scent started to fade away.”

16

The Missing Rose, often compared and likened to all-time favorites „The Little Prince“ by St. Exupery and „The Alchemist“ by Paulo Coelho, is a unique novel of self-discovery. „The Missing Rose“, like „The Little Prince“ and „The Alchemist“, emphasizes the universal side of man. The young author Serdar Özkan believes that it is for this reason that a first novel has been translated into so many languages and gained the approval and appreciation of readers from so many different cultures.

Serdar Özkan was born in 1975 in Turkey. He graduated from Robert College, and completed his undergraduate degree in Business Administration and Psychology at Lehigh University in Pennsylvania, USA. Upon completion of his studies, he returned to Turkey and continued his study of Psychology at Istanbul's Bogazici University. Since 2002, Serdar has been a full-time novelist dedicated to writing novels which unravel the deeper meaning of life's journey. His first novel, The Missing Rose, has been translated into 35 languages and is greatly cherished by readers worldwide.

“The Missing Rose” is an inspirational and captivating novel touches one's heart and soul. A truly beautiful story that one shouldn't miss-a mustread!

Please come and join us to share your thoughts and ideas with "The Missing Rose" author Serdar Özkan. Serdar who looks forward to meeting IWI attendees for an enjoyable discussion/Q&A session after he has read from his book followed by his book signing. You can get you’re the book in most of the bookstores in Istanbul (English issue: 15 TL, Turkish issue 9,90 TL).

Date

:

Tuesday, 12th October, 2010

Time

:

10:00 – 13:00

Cost

:

For free, please bring some homemade dishes along (get in contact with Denise)

Meeting Place :

Denise Gelis Residence, Enver Pasa Korusu 14H, Portakal Yokuşu - Ortaköy

Phone

:

0212 261 7030

Mobile

:

0533 208 0909

#participants

:

min. 50

Team Person

:

to be announced

Deadline

:

Monday, 4th October, 2010

Reservations

:

www.iwi-tr.org

September & October 2010

programs

September & October 2010

17

programs Movie Club

Develop your Creativity

Attention all Movie Lovers…

IWI is organizing a Movie Club!

Whether you are a movie addict or just want to socialize with friends enjoying the latest movies, this is the Club for you!

We will start by meeting every last Wednesday of the month for a morning session at one of the local movie theaters. Depending on your feedback we could also consider evening sessions at a later stage.

Don’t forget that every year around April there is the Istanbul Film Festival which is a great opportunity to watch some very interesting movies. If there is interest we can try to arrange something…

So come and join us in October for the first movie event! Check out our newletter for details.

IWI Watercolour Group Whether you are a beginner, or have been painting for many years, join our regular IWI watercolour group on Thursday afternoons. We will meet at the office twice a month and express our creative side. If you just want to try painting, we have materials and expert advice available. We will learn more from each other and from time to time we may invite artists for demonstrations.

Keep an eye on our website for more detail. In case you want to bring a friend get in touch with the team person present.

18

Date

:

Every 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month.

Time

:

17.00 pm – 20.00 pm

Venue

:

IWI office

Cost

:

Free ( If you need materials: 30 YTL)

Meeting Place

:

IWI Office

Reservations

:

Reserve online www.iwi-tr.org

Phone

:

0532 357 73 03

Deadline:

:

The preceding Monday before the workshop.

Team Person

:

Lilli Zachariadou-İçgören, Esbie van Heerden

#People

:

Min 4, Max. 8

September & October 2010

programs An IWI Lunch at Joan’s

Istanbul @ Night

Newcomers and returning members are welcome to come along to the new Chairwoman, Joan Gottraux’s house in Ulus to enjoy a pot-luck lunch and a chance to meet other members. Please bring your favourite national dish so that we can share a wide variety of tastes and sensations.

Let's celebrate the beginning of the IWI 2010/2011 season in Suada, the floating island in the middle of the Bosphorus with an amazing 360 degrees view of Asia and Europe and the fabulous colour changing bridge! It would be nice to see you all there for drinks. Feel free to bring your friends, spouses and partners.

Suada 360 offers a delicious international kitchen. You can come straight from home/work and enjoy a fine dinner here.

In case of rain we will meet at 360 in Beyoglu. Please have a look at the IWI website for updates!

Date

:

Wednesday, October 20

Date

:

Thursday 30th September

Time

:

9.00 pm

Venue

:

Suada 360 Eski Galatasaray Adasi Kurucesme

Time

:

12 noon

Host

:

Joan Gottraux

Address

:

Will be sent upon confirmation

Reservations

:

chairwoman@iwi-tr.org

Cost

:

Pay your own drinks

Phone

:

0530 561 22 44

Meeting Place

:

to be announced

Saturday, October 16

Reservations

:

reservations@iwi-tr.org

Phone

:

+90 212 251 1042

Deadline:

:

Thursday, 29 th October, 2010

Team Person

:

Pervin Leenhouts (0532 4667573)

Deadline:

:

September & October 2010

19

programs Culinary Tour

A Taste of Lebanese Cuisine

Taste the traditional flavours and cook with passion and love.

Are you ready for a taste of Lebanese cuisine? Lebanese cuisine?

Discover the delights of Lebanese cooking with our Lebanese host, Najwa Barbir!

This gourment travel is especially designed for the ones who are interested in discovering new places around Istanbul and are eager to learn and taste Turkish flavors and food. The mission is to present Turkish kitchen and to explain that it is not only Döner Kebap and Sis Kebap. Turkey is a combination of many different cultures of centuries.

You will travel with Aylin and Yesim, who have been professionals in this field for year, around forgotten corners of the hauntingly beautiful Golden Horn; and make some chilling ‘finds’ on cobbled streets where the mixtures of Armenians, Greeks, Gypsies and Turks have been living for centuries.

We will first start discovering the place of that days trip and afterwards stop at a delightful restaurant and eat the lovely food and learn the story behind the dishes. Maybe we will have a chance to go inside the kitchen. Who knows J It is time to put on your sandals and hit the road and discover the hidden Istanbul.

Lebanese cuisine is one of the freshest, finest and most delicious food in the world!Using mostly olive oil, herbs, spices and fresh vegetables, Lebanese food is generous and abundant reflecting the age old tradition of hospitality and the love of life of the Lebanese people. Lebanese gastronomy has made international fame mostly thanks to its “Mezze”. Lebanese Mezze, or appetizers, are a variety of hot and cold dishes and are an obligatory part of any casual or formal meal. We will learn how to make a few of the most known Mezze’s which I am sure you have already heard of: Tabbouleh Salad (Parsley, Bulgur and Tomato) Fattoush Salad (Typical Lebanese green salad with toasted pita bread) Hommos ( Chick Pea Dip) Moutabal (Eggplant Dip) We will also learn some classical main dishes: Moudardara (made with Lentils and Rice) Freekeh ma’djej (green wheat dish with Chicken) Mehshe Koussah (popular Zucchini dish stuffed with rice and meat) To top it all up, we will refresh our palates with two surprising Lebanese desserts! Afiyet olsun or Sahtein (as they say in Arabic!)

Date

:

Friday, 22nd October, 2010

Date

:

Friday, 15th October,2010

Time

:

10.00 – 15.00

Time

:

10.00-14.00

Cost

:

75 TL

Venue

:

Stephanie’s home in Tarabya

Meeting Place

:

Alkent Etiler

Cost

:

To be announced in IWI newsletter

Meeting Place

:

Stephanie’s home in Tarabya (directions upon reservation)

Reservations

:

Reserve online at www.iwi-tr.org

Phone

:

0539 482 30 18

Deadline:

:

Monday, 18th October, 2010

Reservations

:

Reserve online www.iwi-tr.org

#participants

:

max 15

Deadline:

:

Wednesday 13th October

Mehnaz Nadeem

#participants

:

max. 10

Team Person

:

Stephanie Kansu Tel. 0533-922 2500

Team Person

:

Please note CANCELLATION of the attendance after the RESERVATION DEADLINE or NO SHOW is chargeable in full. For non members the cost of this programme is an additional 20 TL.

20

September & October 2010

programs Make up your Day

Weekly Yoga sessions at The LifeCo

Would you like to be able, to apply your own make up like a professional artist?

Tired of not knowing what to do for a special occasion? And what about for every day life?

What is too much and what is too little make up?

The word yoga, means "union" in Sanskrit, the language of ancient India, where yoga originated. It seeks a unity of mind, body and spirit, by working on one’s individual process, which flows from foundation, through precision to expansion. It is so adaptable to varying population, whatever your age or level of fitness .

If you want to know how to do it yourself like the pros, join us for a make up class.

The professionals at Bobbi Brown will teach you the basic techniques, to apply flawless make up, according to your face shape and complexion. You will also be advised about the products and colours that suit you best and learn the latest fashion and trends in this fascinating field.

The cost of 100 TL will be deducted from any products that you buy.

Due to our member’s demand, The LifeCo, has organized a daily yoga class, with 50 % off for all IWI members. You have the choice to enjoy either the morning class or/and the afternoon one. You can even spend the whole day at The LifeCo, indulging yourself with a relaxing massage, or get a wonderful facial (10 % off for IWI member). The sauna or steam room is at your disposal for free.

No experience necessary. All levels welcome! Join our new daily yoga class at The LifeCo and start to build your strength, stamina and flexibility.

Save time and money next time you have a special event and learn how to look like a million dollars every single day!

Date

:

Tuesday, 26th October, 2010

Date

:

every day

Time

:

10:00 – 13:00

Time

:

8:00 and/or 14.30

Venue

:

Bobbi Brown counter at Harvey Nichols in Kanyon Mall

Cost

:

100 TL redeemable for product

Venue

:

Meeting Place

:

Bobbi Brown counter at Harvey Nichols in Kanyon Mall

The Life Co, Akatlar Well-Being Center, Club Sporium, Cumhuriyet Cad: 4/8, Akatlar www.thelifeco.com

Cost

:

15 TL

:

The LifeCo

Reservations

:

reservations@iwi-tr.org

Meeting Place

Deadline:

:

Thursday, 21st October, 2010

Reservations

:

Not required

#participants

:

min. 8, max. 20

Phone

:

0212 325 32 80

Team Person

:

To be announced

Please note CANCELLATION of the attendance after the RESERVATION DEADLINE or NO SHOW is chargeable in full. For non members the cost of this programme is an additional 20 TL. September & October 2010

21

Interview with D t. Arzu Yalnız Founder of Dentaluna Oral and Dental Health Care

Dt. Arzu Yalnız is answering Yasemin Tarzi Güven’s questions about dental care for children, pregnant women and dental bleaching.

Dt. Arzu Yalnız

yasemintarzi@superonline.com

Yasemin Tarzi Güven

Y.T.G. : When do the children’s first teeth erupt?

A.Y. : During the first 4-6 mouth period lower anterior are the first to erupt while the molars follows as the last to erupt during age 2,5. During this period it is important for the families to make sure that their child have their teeth brushed regularly.

Y.T.G. : Why do children need special dental care?

A.Y. : Children have some special dental needs, because they are still

growing, and as a result their mouths are actively developing. As children lose baby teeth and develop adult teeth, the care of a dentist can ensure that they get to keep their adult teeth for life. Services offered by a dentist include routine teeth cleanings, prophylactic care, dental examinations and they can provide children with orthodontic care if their teeth or jaws appear to be developing abnormally.

Y.T.G. : What is the difference between a dentist and pedodontist in childrens point of view?

A.Y. : Preventative care is a big part of the practice of a dentist, as

early intervention during dental development can head off a variety of problems, from occlusion issues to cavities. This care can include dental education to help children learn to care for their teeth and gums, along with prophylactic procedures such as sealing the teeth to prevent cavities. Dentist work with children from infancy to adolescence, providing dental care as the mouth and teeth develop.

We also customize their care to keep children comfortable and happy. Reducing stress in children makes it easier to provide dental care, and it also creates a lifelong comfortable relationship with dentists and dentistry. Since some adults experience fear of the dentist which has been exacerbated by the care they received as children, getting people to accept dentistry is an important part of the practice of us, ensuring that children will grow up into adults who regularly seek dental care.

Can you tell us about dental awareness during pregnancy?

Y.T.G. : Why do women get dental problems during pregnancy?

A.Y. : Pregnancy is actually the time to take extra special care of your teeth and gums.

During pregnancy, increased hormone levels can make your teeth and gums extra sensitive to bacteria, which could increase your risk of developing certain dental infections. It is common to have dental problems associated with pregnancy.

Y.T.G : What kind problems can occur during pregnancy?

A.Y. : Pregnancy gingivitis is probably most common. With this condition, the gums

are usually red and swollen. They can also bleed easily and become very sore or sensitive. Pregnant women usually avoid going to dentist.

Y.T.G. : How to get protected?

A.Y. : The best way to avoid the gingival problems associated with pregnancy is to

practice excellent oral hygiene: • • • • •

Brush at least two times a day.

Carefully floss at least once a day.

Rinse with mouthwash or warm salt water, but be careful not swallow it.

The warm salt water can help to soothe the inflamed tissues.

Schedule regular dental visits and periodic professional teeth cleanings.

What would you like to tell us about dental bleaching ?

Dental bleaching, also known as tooth whitening, is a common procedure in general dentistry but most especially in the field of cosmetic dentistry. Oxidizing agents such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide are used to lighten the shade of the tooth. The oxidizing agent penetrates the thin holes in the crystal structure of enamel.

Y.T.G. : Is it applicable to all patients?

A.Y. : Teeth that have restorations , such as veneers or having been

bonded with white fillings, cannot be whitened with hydrogen or carbamide peroxide. These materials do not whiten past the color they were originally made. The color of these types of restorations were determined by the surrounding teeth. If the surrounding teeth are whitened, the restorations will stand out and look artificial.

Replacing old or discolored restorations will allow you to change their appearance.

Teeth that have internal staining, discoloration from developmental conditions or have been root canalled may not be affected by the typical whitening process. Internal tooth whitening or permanent restorations may be an option to consider.

Natural tooth colors that are brown or gray in hue may not produce desired results. Typically, teeth with a yellow hue will produce the best results.

Y.T.G. : Can anyone have teeth whitening treatment? Are there side affects of the treatment?

A.Y. : Pregnant or nursing mothers should avoid whitening their

Y.T.G. : How are teeth whitened?

A.Y. : Enamel, the first layer of tooth surface, is actually semi-trans-

lucent, or clear. The layer underneath the enamel, known as dentin, is typically yellow, but may be gray, brown or black. This hue is what is seen penetrating through the enamel. In order to whiten the dentin, a peroxide solution is placed on the enamel. This process opens the pores of the enamel, allowing the solution to reach the layer of dentin. The solution will then begin to lighten the dentin, resulting in the appearance of whiter teeth.

Several brands of tooth-whitening products are on the market that all promise one thing -- noticeable results. Professional in-office whitening, professional take-home whitening are the most common ways to whiten your teeth.

Y.T.G. : What should be expected as a result from teeth whitening? Are the results permanent? Does it have to be repeated?

A.Y. : It is important to have realistic expectations when evaluating

your final results; it may take several treatments to achieve a whiter smile.

Whitening results may not be permanent, as your teeth will naturally pick up stain from foods or beverages or from tobacco use. Remember to brush and floss daily, and visit your dentist for regular cleanings and examinations.

teeth as there is not enough research to determine the safety of tooth whitening products during pregnancy or lactation.

People with hypersensitive teeth should avoid tooth whitening, because this process may enhance the level of sensitivity they experience.

Tooth whitening results will vary from person to person, so chose an option that will suit your specific needs.

Y.T.G. : What do you suggest for us to have healthier teeths?

A.Y. : There are periodic checks and preventive X-ray examination in

Y.T.G. : Let’ s set the next interview for estetics if you may?

A.Y. : Of course, as the preventive dentistry would also provide

adults.

basis for dental estetics. Furthermore laminate porcelain restorations are the most common practice for providing estetics for beautiful smile.

CHARITY INTRODUCTION AND HOW TO MEET

A new and exciting IWI season lies before us and we, the charity team, are very much looking forward to it.

Let’s start by introducing ourselves, which is not an easy task.

The whole IWI charity team consists of volunteers, coordinators and assistants and is an evolving group and it would take us too far to introduce everybody personally.

Here we will mention the key people to contact; Mirjam van der Lubbe; Charity Coordinator-takes care of the contacts with the charity projects, their requests and the settlement of financial grants and donations.

Anne Martin; Volunteers Coordinator- takes care of recruiting, organizing and following up on the IWI volunteers and assists the Charity Coordinator.

Oona Mathlener; Special Projects - assists the charity team with any project requiring additional attention.

Angela Kuzucu; Coordinator Pink Angels - She organizes the Pink Angels, a special volunteer group which go into the children’s cancer ward of SSK Okmeydanı Hospital three times a week to play with the patients.

•

You can come to the CHARITY GET INVOLVED LUNCH, which will be held in October. Place and time will be announced in the IWI electronic newsletter and the website.

•

You can contact Anne any time, or one of the other coordinators.

Hoping to meet you soon, The Charity Team

You can find our contact information on ‘The IWI Board, Teams and Assistants’ page at the beginning of this magazine.

But the heart of the charity team are the volunteers, who with their enthusiasm and commitment go and visit hospitals and elderly homes, help to organize fund raising events, collect products for donation, and a multitude of other activities.

We know by now that, apart from money, charity organizations benefit often even more from volunteer efforts.

So if by now you feel that this is the place where you want to contribute your energy and skills to this new season, please contact us.

There are several ways how to reach us, and we will reach out to you; •

24

You can meet us and a lot of our charity projects at the Opening Meeting on September 23rd. You can fill in a form so we know more about your charity interests, which activities suits you and how much time you have available.

September & October 2010

CHARITY news Thank you Dutch Community!w

Swimming the Bosphorus for Charity

Seems already a long time ago, but in July football supporters all over the world were under the spell of the World Cup Football games in South Africa and none more so than the Dutch in Istanbul. Both the Dutch and Spanish teams played a wonderful game in the final. Well done Spain!

On Sunday July 18th, the annual Bosphorus Cross Continental race was being held and IWI member and former chairwoman, Pervin Leenhouts, was one of the contestants.

Although the weather was sunny and hot, the current in the Bosphorus was strong and it was quite a challenge to swim from the Kanlıca boat pier on the Anatolian side to the pier located in Kuruçesme Cemil Topuzlu Park on the European side. Pervin was among the 800 contestants, who had to finish the 6.5 km race in the required time. And she did it! Like last year, Pervin swam this race for charity. The charity she chose is IZEV, İstanbul Zihinsel Engelliler Vakfi,. IZEV offers programs to mentally disabled children to integrate them in normal life as much as possible.

It was the initiative of a few Dutch guys, Richard Verbuys, Martijn Smelt and Rex Nijhuis, to set up a football pool and to donate the collected money to charity.

The Dutch Community met at the bar of Ritz Carlton, which was awash with orange to watch the game together. Before the game started the supporters were asked to join in the pool which would go for a good cause. As the tournament proceeded what started as a small project got bigger. Anja Verbuijs-Mijnheer and Oona Smelt’s input was greatly appreciated.

IWI wants to thank Pervin dearly for her huge effort, for her swimming and also for collecting money. Thanks!

The amount collected exceeded all expectations. During the final match a cheque of 3.785 TL was handed to the IWI charity team.

The money will be allocated to CYDD, to a project in Nigde which helps girls in remote villages to attend high school and to IZEV, a foundation which offers programs to mentally disabled children.

On behalf of IWI we thank the Dutch organizers and the Dutch Community for their generous contribution.

Mirjam van der Lubbe Charity coordinator

September & October 2010

25

members An English lady in Istanbul Karen Wilshire-Güler married to a Turkish gentleman came to Istanbul 18 years ago...

Unprepared for the Istanbul experience she went back, but years later returned and gave it a second chance... Let’s have a look at the old and new Istanbul through her eyes...

K

aren Wilshire- Güler, “an English lady who married a Turkish gentleman” has been a member of IWI during the years she lived here in Istanbul.

This full-of-life, charming lady first set foot in Istanbul 18 years ago: “I am a very well travelled individual who has experienced many different cultures. But nothing could have prepared me for the life in Istanbul!” She lived here for a few years back then and became a member of IWI: “I found them extremely helpful and supportive, and have made many new friends through this organization.”

As a person who is fond of shopping and going to nice restaurants, not having those luxuries around her was not easy. There were no malls back then in İstanbul, or chique restaurants to enjoy a nice meal with friends.

Even wearing a mini dress was a challange in İstanbul.

Eventually Karen and her husband decided to go and live in UK. It took her a while to come back to Istanbul and give it a second chance. About four years ago Karen, moved back to Istanbul, and found the city quite changed.

Istanbul accomodated international restaurants and big shopping malls now. Most brands had their own shops.

People in Istanbul, as well as the city itself, has become more global and modern. “The city itself didn’t have so much to offer years ago. It is also a lot cleaner and organized now,” she says.

Still there is one major issue: the traffic. Famous with its reckless drivers, traffic can be “extremely challenging” in Istanbul. But she approaches the challenge very optimistic: “I realized to enjoy the city to its maximum potential one had to drive, but they do tend to have a very different style of driving here than I am actually used to.”

After all those years and after going through a major change, Istanbul has bewitched her. Even though it still is a very difficult city to live in, Karen “has come to enjoy this cosmopolitan city and appreciate it’s individuality.”

26

September & October 2010

members

GĂźldehan Neng

Enchanting ladies...

Different nationalities, different ages, different backgrounds... United in one voice...

Istanbul International Chamber Choir brings music lovers together...

T

hree Dutch ladies living in Istanbul...

Anderske Kaspersma, Mariette Stijnen and Fleur van Bree. Being enthusiasts of music, they founded the IICC, Istanbul International Chamber Choir, about a year ago. Anderske, the conductor and co-founder of the choir, is a professional mjsician, a soprano. Mariette, one of the cofounders of IICC, has been a part of a choir in all the cities she lived till now, and co-founder Fleur, studied music with Anderske. It was only natural for them to create a space for music lovers like themselves.

Getting together with other music loving expat ladies in Istanbul, they started rehearsing. Every level of music knowledge is accepted in IICC. Members don't need to have music experience. It is preferred, of course, but everyone who has music inside them is welcome at the choir.

The earnings of these concerts were given to charity, for example, after the summer concerts IICC donated the benefits of them to repair the organ of St. Helena’s Chapel. All the concerts were a success and IICC is already requested for future performances.

IICC has performed three concerts throughout last year. One at Christmas and the other two in June, as summer concerts. There is an amazing repertoire which is picked up

by Anderske, considering the suggestions of choir members ass well. From Saint-Sean's 'Ave Verum' to popular songs like 'Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend' and 'Mamma Mia'.

As IWI begins a new season and members return from their summer holidays, IICC started rehearsals. The first one was on the 15th of September. As always, it was a complete joy. There were 20 ladies, Including members from last year and newcomers, from all around the world... German, Spanish, Dutch, British, Swedish, Turkish, American, Japanese.... Everyone singing and giggling like little girls at our own mistakes, chatting on the coffee break and catching up.

Different nationalities, different ages, different backgrounds united in one voice... Love of music and three very talented and admirable lady made this possible.

Every wednesday at 19.30, happiness bursts out of IICS Hisar Campus! Ladies who want to join IICC, please contact...

Anderske Kaspersma: anderske.k@hotmail.com Mariette Stijnen: chris_mariette_stijnen@yahoo.com Fleaur van Bree: fleurvanbree@gmail.com

September & October 2010

27

IPWIN International Professional Women of Istanbul Network Hoşgeldiniz!

We would like to welcome you to the new IPWIN season, whether you are a returner or newcomer to Istanbul. We hope that you have had a wonderful summer and are back full of energy for the new IPWIN season. We, the new IPWIN Co-ordination team members, are ready to start!

The IPWIN co-ordination team

As we are a new team we would like to introduce ourselves: Our leader: Marie Theres Raberger, Austrian, is a mother of three who has been happily living in Istanbul since September 2007. She currently works as a project freelancer for a Turkish HR consultancy.

Her team: Cerstin Diewald, German, is a mother of six year old twins who has enjoyed living in Istanbul for a year. She formerly worked in Human Ressources; Kelly Hevel, American, has happily lived and worked in Istanbul since August 2006. We will work hard to continue the success of Kate Reid, who has done a terrific job in the past year.

in Istanbul. Following the opening, the first term`s events will focus on working in Turkey. The events will look at the legal issues of working foreigners, current trends of Turkey’s labour market and how to write a CV and conduct a job search. We also plan to start an indepth series on Turkish business life with excursions to companies and businesses across diverse sectors. Of course we are curious to hear your wishes and input. There is a huge reservoir of knowledge and competencies between all the IPWIN players that all of us could benefit from. So please step forward!

You want to (re-)join us?

Now it is your turn. Join us either at the IWI Opening or at the IPWIN Opening itself. Or you can simply join IPWIN through the IWI homepage.

We look forward to meeting you!

Marie Theres, Cerstin & Kelly

Our mission

IPWIN was founded 2 years ago as IWI interest group . With more than 220 members from all over the world, we provide a platform for women of diverse professional and cultural backgrounds who are currently working, seeking employment or are interested in developing and/or maintaining their professional skills. We value a variety of experiences and warmly welcome professional women in the Istanbul community to experience the excellence, openness and warmth in all our activities.

Fine Quality Rugs in Cappadocia

Our aims

We provide networking opportunities to build professional and social relationships in a relaxed environment. We encourage the exchange of business relevant information and experiences amongst women with different nationalities and career paths. We aim at developing, strengthening and maintaining our members´ personal and work-related competencies.

Tribal Collections

Nomadic Rugs & Textiles

CAPPADOCIA

Our activities

We meet monthly at IPWIN First Tuesday. These informal gettogethers are opportunities to meet other professional women, explore new ideas, share tips and information and make new friends. Additionally, we hold special events throughout the year which feature business-related topics. Upcoming events are advertised by e-mail and are posted on the IWI website.

We want you

To tailor our events as closely as possible to our members’ wishes we will conduct a member survey in September 2010. Beware: we won’t let you escape without completing it! The questionnaire will be distributed to our current members via email and to all re- or newly- joining members who approach us at the IWI or IPWIN opening events. Returned and completed questionnaires will be entered into a raffle for a surprise gift to thank participants.

Let’s get started

In following the tradition of the past three years, the IPWIN opening meeting will be held in one of the splendid foreign consulates

28

New, Antique & Tribal Carpets and Kilims Rug educationals Expert restoration Appraisals

www.tribalcollections.net

Ruth Lockwood & Faruk Çiftçi Address Tel / Fax Mobile Email

: Müze Yolu No : 24 / C Göreme - Turkey : +90 384 271 2400 : +90 532 486 1419 : carpets@tribalcollections.net

September & October 2010

September & October 2010

29

lale features

Esbie van Heerden

The Pera Palace: Istanbul Land mark due to re-open The Pera Palace Hotel lived through the Ottoman decline, the founding of the Republic, two world wars and changing political, social and economic conditions. On Sept. 1, the state-owned Pera Palace re-opened after a two-year restoration that cost 23 million euros ($30 million), seeking to capture the lost sparkle of what was one of Istanbul's most prominent landmarks

T

he Pera Palace Hotel, a significant prominent symbol of Istanbul's urban culture for over a hundred years, was also witness to many historical events such as World War I, the Occupation of Istanbul, the Turkish War of Independence, the founding of the Turkish Republic and World War II.

originally founded in 1892 for the specific purpose of hosting passengers arriving on the Orient Express train and no doubt served as an inspiration to the "Queen of Crime". The hotel has entertained many kings, queens, statesmen and artists from all over the world since its establishment.

The original owner of the Pera Palace was Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits, which operated the Orient Express luxury train line. When the worldwide famous Orient Express chose Istanbul as its last stop in the East, Istanbul began to attract not only adventurers, but also the elite of Europe. It was the last stop on the Orient Express, a grand hotel with Istanbul's first electric elevator where artists and aristocrats sipped champagne beneath chandeliers as the Ottoman Empire dissolved and the world drifted toward war. Mata Hari, accused of spying and executed in France in 1917, stayed at the Pera Palace Hotel. So did Greta Garbo, who played the shadowy dancer in a 1931 movie. Hemingway drank at the hotel's Orient Bar in the early 1920s where his was reporting on the war.

Agatha Christie is said to have crafted "Murder on the Orient Express" in Room 411. This seems likely since the hotel was

30

September & October 2010

lale features

Famous guests stayed in the hotel including Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, King George V of England, Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany, Emperor Franz Joseph of Austria-Hungary and Czar Nicholas II of Russia. Agatha Christie was in fact one of the hotel's most ardent visitors.

Other prominent visitors of the Pera Palace Hotel were: Ismet Inönü, Celal Bayar, Adnan Menderes, Fahri Korutürk, King Zog I of Albania, Shah Reza Pahlavi of Iran, King Edward VIII of England, King Ferdinand I of Bulgaria, King Carol I of Romania, President Tito of Yugoslavia and President Giscard d’Estaing of France. The long list of historically notable people includes Franz Von Papen, Yehudi Menuhin, Jacqueline Kennedy, and Rita Hayworth. The hotel hosted spies as well as statesmen.

Kim Philby, the British-Soviet double agent, was nearly unmasked in Istanbul, and the agent codenamed Cicero, valet to the British ambassador in Ankara, visited as he sold secret documents to German agents in World War II.

their eyes off this utterly pretty and aristocrat elevator.” Bathrooms that provided the only running hot water in the city were also privileges exclusive to Pera Palace Hotel guests.

Tall spacious rooms lit by magnificent chandeliers were host to many unforgettable tea and dance parties.

A Turkish conglomerate, the Besiktaş Group, now manages the hotel. It has a modern spa and an indoor pool, as well as new elevators to supplement the original wood and cast iron one. Sixteen are suites named after guests including Britain's King Edward VIII and Austro-Hungarian Emperor Franz Joseph I. Basic room prices start at 185 euros ($240), excluding tax and breakfast, but go higher in peak season. Ahead of the September opening, they are 265 euros ($350).

No one will sleep in Room 101. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Turkish Republic and the first President of Turkey, was a guest at the Pera Palace Hotel several times. Room 101, where he stayed during his visits to Istanbul, is now kept as a museum with the original furniture and memorabilia. A witness to tumult, the Pera Palace became a target in 1941 when a bomb exploded at the entrance shortly after the arrival of a British diplomatic party from Bulgaria, which had sided with the Nazis. Several people died there.

Levantine architect Alexander Vallaury designed the hotel in neo-classical, art nouveau and oriental styles and was home to many firsts. Apart from the Ottoman Palaces, it was the first building to have electricity as well as the first electric elevator. British writer Daniel Farson described the elevator in these words: “It is the most beautiful elevator in the world made of cast iron and wood... It ascends like a lady who curtsies. Tourists cannot take September & October 2010

Sources : Christopher Torchia , Associated Press www.perapalace.com

31

sponsored article The fascinating silhouette of the fusion of old and new: Istanbul ... New ones that turned into a habit because of their history and tradition adds to the excitement and passion of the city.

While this scene is almost a perfect mixture of Turkish cuisine shaping up, the restaurants in Istanbul with different tastes continue to play a leading role. The oldest and the newest restaurants face you as if coming through the tunnel of time.

Don’t forget to reserve in advance. Go to www.rezztoran.com/english for details or download Rezztoran.com’s iPhone application at the iTunes store.

The old Istanbul Restaurants Vogue Restaurant & Bar With sunrise over 13 years, Vogue Restaurant & Bar by Istanbul Doors Group continues to serve on the rooftop of BJK Plaza.

Welcoming its guests with a magnificent view of the Bosphorus, according to “Zagat Survey” that does research in the food and beverage industry for 23 years, Vogue is among the world's best restaurants. Twice TimeOut / Miller award-winning on food and beverage, Vogue Restaurant was also placed first in “the best restaurant” in Istanbul in 2002 and "the most elegant classical venue" in 2007. Still serving to be the center of the old habits and with its unique Mediterranean menu and quality for over 10 years for lunch and dinner, continues to be the number one choice.

Sunset Grill & Bar Sunset Grill & Bar is a place that represents Istanbul cuisine with a 14-year history. A unique location overlooking the Bosporus with variations of flavors that have blended into a classic on the restaurant menu is also the best choice for its wine menu. In Sunset’s private cellar you may find the most prestigious wines like Petrus, La Tâche, Château Latour, Sassiccaia, , Château d'Yquem and Opus One. As well as its international cuisine it is also a meeting point for the lovers of the exotic and fascinating tastes of sushi and sashimi on the Japanese cuisine.

Park Şamdan Nisantasi

Tuğra Çırağan Restaurant

Tuğra Çırağan Palace Restaurant located in the enchanting atmosphere, is in the first place worldwide with its rich cultural heritage and food culture of the Ottoman Empire. With its spectacular views of the Bosphorus and the glory of the decoration of the palace, Travel + Leisure listed this place as one of "The World's 50 Most Romantic Locations". With the historical documents translated and passed on to the Ottoman-Turkish food culture and sampled in the menu of the Tuğra Restaurant such as; stuffed dolma varieties, rice, kebab and palace desserts ... A unique place in Istanbul where you can time travel and witness the old city.

32

One of the most frequently visited restaurant by shoppers in Nişantaşı, Park Şamdan is still offering Turkish, Italian and French cuisines since 1982. With its uncompromised quality and its regulars the place has a service approach as fresh as the first time and can be visited except Sundays every day, 12:30 to 15:00 and 19:00 - 00:00 and in summers the other branch in Reina can be visited.

Konyalı Topkapi Palace Konyalı Restaurant located in the Topkapi Palace since 1969 is still serving its traditional Turkish cuisine and introduces the Turkish Food Culture to the visiting foreign guests. Since its foundation Konyalı has hosted many statesmen, kings, queens and the famous with its elegant menu of traditional Turkish cuisine. Serves every day except Tuesdays. Konyalı Topkapı Palace offers a la carte and cafe service to to tourist groups, local and foreign agencies.

September & October 2010

sponsored article The newest Istanbul restaurants Delicatessen

Topaz Restaurant

'Good food is the foundation for the pleasures of life' philosophy is based on the concept and shows itself from the menu to the management approach. Delicatessen menu, unlike the usual recipe, was created with a 'back to basics' understanding. A rich wine menu, 1000 bottle wine cellar, meal matching propositions, tasting notes ... Delicatessen also makes you live in an exclusive shopping pleasure. You may purcahse your favorite flavor ingredients, sauces, delis or your favorite wine. You may enhance your presentations of food from the 'Delicatessen Accessories' series, with cheese and deli boards, glass lanterns, cake molds, limited glass, wooden and ceramic products. Opened recently, it is already a candidate to be one of the lasting flavor points ...

Der Die Das Istanbul's new and the classic candidate "Fine Dining Restaurant" Topaz, offers outstanding flavor of the Mediterranean and Ottoman cuisines. The meeting point with good food and good wine, Topaz has breathtaking views, a central location, a unique wine cellar, simple, elegant and spacious decor and looks over the Bosphorus from Gümüşsuyu. To list a few, Topaz has many awards like Time Out Istanbul, 2008’s "The Best Service", Gecce Oscars 2007-2008’s "The Best Mediterranean Cuisine", Gusto magazine’s "The City's Best Wine-friendly Place and The Best Wine Cellar", also to be listed on the world-renowned travel magazine " Conde Nast Traveler " is surely on the rise.

You can find a combination of entertainment and culinary delights of the city in this hip venue Der Die Das, Akaretler in its unique neo-classical ambiance. With its special meals, delicious cocktails, live dj performances throughout the week, and its crowd overflowing into the street until morning hours is the city’s newest in Akaretler. Der Die Das located in W Hotel starts the day with a choice of a delicious buffet or menu of the day, after dining the club is turned into an ideal environment for special occasions.

Fish FISH, a great fish restaurant, brings a brand new breath to one of Istanbul's popular districts Bebek. The newly opened FISH is the newest member of the 360 Entertainment Group.You enter the blue world of Fish as you go up the stairs in the narrow corridor.

The top one of the two floors is the terrace that sets the Bebek scene beneath your feet. Whether you prefer to sit in the open or the closed sections the fish pleasure will go beyond the ordinary.

This place has captured a different line here. Although appetizers, seafood, desserts, each one a familiar taste, they still come with a different twist. It brings a modern and elegant approach to “Raki&Fish” also by staying true to the traditional Turkish food culture. The elegant approach of the service personnel and service quality is remarkably successful. Fish’s other biggest distinctive feature is definitely the price policy. Whether you choose from the menu or the fixed menu, prices are very reasonable. Do not forget to make reservations for the place that will change the way you taste food again.

September & October 2010

Mori Bebek Turkey’s first sushi restaurant, Mori has been serving sushi enthusiasts for 3 months in Bebek. The restaurant’s decor is inspired by fusion / zen style and suitable for many occasions including business lunches, after shopping trips or weekends after the movies…

The minimalist style has a calming effect in this Japanese restaurant. The chefs are from Japan and the fish is purchased from Turkey’s largest Japanese fish importer. Sushi is prepared upon customer order at the sushi bar and the way it is served on the sushi platter is an art of its own. Those who are not sushi fans will have plenty of other Japanese cuisine options that they will surely like such as miso soup, spring rolls and tempura.

33

Annette Leukhart

lale features

Cihangir

I

have been living in Istanbul for six years, more than five of them in Cihangir. Meanwhile, I`ve become so attached to the lively scene of this little urban village that I couldn`t imagine living anywhere else in Beyoglu. (And, let´s face it, chances are little that I should ever move into one of those colonial style villas that line the Bosporus shore between Kurucesme and Bebek.)

The quarters` name is taken from the Cihangir mosque that is surrounded by a cosy little garden with benches and offers a wonderful view over the Bosporus. Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent had built a mosque there in loving memory of his late son Cihangir, whose favourite hunting ground was around this area. Cihangir passed away from desease at a “Don`t be young age.

and more foreigners as well as Turkish artists and intellectuals. In no time, Cihangir had turned into a trendy bohemian quarter. Of course, not all of the side effects of this rapid development have been for the good of Cihangir. The facades of some buildings still remind of its cultural heritage from the Pera era, but in the pace of the massive beautification process that Cihangir has been going under, a lot of buildings have been restored hastily, making their authentic features disappear. A Venetian style balcony would be teared down in favour of a smooth facade of some bright pastel colour.

surprised if two out of three people tell you they are in film business, this is what Cihangir is famous for”

Since the late Ottoman Empire, when Beyoglu was still Pera, Cihangir has had a history of non-muslim residents from Europe. Later, in the 1970s, it became a prefered neighbourhood to migrants from south-east Anatolia as well as for artists and intellectuals. In those days, Cihangir was notorious for its street crime scene and illegal prostitution. Since then, Cihangir has been struggling hard to get away from its bad reputation – ask any elderly Turkish man, they will shake their heads and come up with a horror story on what a rotten place this used to be.

Fortunately, Cihangir has changed a lot in the last couple of years.

I remember, when I first got here, most of the facades looked rather run down, of a greyish colour , a lot of buildings empty and in a state of decay. Around that time, Cihangir began to attract more

34

But above all, Cihangir has still preserved its villagelike character. You have the vendor with his donkey and carriage, selling seasonal fruits on the street.

Get your breakfast right from the Simitci passing your window in the mornings, hear the call of the Hurdaci (collecting old metal) and listen to the chants of the Bozaci on winter nights (selling a drink from fermented wheat that is said to increase male potency).

Talking about village life: It is very recommendable to keep up good relations with your neighbours. Support the little local shops. It`s easy, as people tend to be friendly and curious about foreigners anyway. You don`t even need to be good at Turkish. Alone your effort of trying to order something in a shop or to greet someone in Turkish on the street will be appreciated in many ways. Your neighbours will accept you as a part of their community and even have an eye on your apartment while you are on holidays.

In spite of its rural appeal, I know very few places around Istanbul

September & October 2010

lale features

where I feel as comfortable being a foreign woman as in Cihangir.

You just don`t attract that much attention, because the crowd here is really mixed and people are used to seeing foreigners.

In the last couple of years, cafes and bars have spread out all over Cihangir like mushrooms. Among them, there is one institution that is like the center and the soul of Cihangir: The Firuzaga Cay Bahcesi next to the Firuzaga mosque on the down end of Siraselviler Street. Here is where you can sit and have a tea after a hard days work or where you meet with friends for breakfast. It is perfectly fine to bring your own breakfast, as long as you order some cay with it. You can sit here for hours watching the people around and get in touch with the locals same time. Don`t be surprised if two out of three people tell you they are in film business – this is what Cihangir is famous for (and after all this industry is a wide field!)

Another favourite option of mine is Rafineri on Siraselviler Street, right across from the teegarden. The menu is Turkish-international, the food is delicious and absolutely inexpensive for Cihangir standards. Kahvedan on Akarsu Street is also a very good place to eat out, especially if you are into Asian inspired cuisine.

If you are into quality wines, stop by La Cave on Siraselviller Street, right opposite the DIA market. This place is special, as on two levels there is a wide choice of wines and spirits, and among the local products there are some absolutely reasonably priced wines of great value.

There are so many more beautiful spots and places to discover in Cihangir, but I think it`s best to get out there and explore the streets on your own. Still, I cannot quit without telling about my favourite place to visit. Hidden well at the right end of the street right above Roma Park, there is a little teagarden overlooking the Bosporus. The view is spectecular, it ranges from the Asian shore to your left over to the Princess Islands straight ahead, up to the old European part of Sulthanahmet,, with its mosques and the Topkapi Sarayi just a stone`s throw away. But it is not only this stunning view that makes it such a magical place. Though overlooking the busy street between Tophane and Findikli, this spot is absolutely quiet. Sitting there, sipping cay and gazing above the water is the most relaxing thing to do after a busy day in this overcrowded city. In this state of peaceful bliss, I truly feel the meaning of what the Turkish call Huzur.

Regarding your daily shopping, of course you can find anything you need at Carrefour. But if you are in search for nicer, fresher vegetables that cost less, give the smaller local places a try. I prefer to shop fruits and vegetables at Orka market on Aga Hamami Street, a supermarket that is run by a friendly south-east Anatolian family.

Ak Gida on the corner Yeni Yuva Street and Siraselviler is another one of my choices. The owner is a funny guy from the Black Sea and sells a rare specialty from his region: Organic chestnut honey, a 100% sugar free. It is not intended to be had for breakfast, but some kind of all round cure against digestive problems, stomach aches and coughing. It really works! I found it a real alternative to all those antibiotics they try to sell you in the pharmacies.

September & October 2010

35

Turkish Laws 101

Karen Akıncı, LLB, Akıncı Law Office info@akinci.av.tr

Questions and Answers for Foreigners in Turkey

T

urkey is a very welcoming country for foreigners. It is the one Eurasian country which stretches across the Anatolian peninsula in western Asia and Thrace (Rumelia) in the Balkan region of south-eastern Europe, having its Eastern borders with Georgia (northeast), Armenia, Azerbaijan (the exclave of Nakhchivan) and Iran. Turkey has a population of approximately 76,500,000 and an increasing foreign population. Turkey offers a colourful culture, history, art and many geographical beauties; however, along with its many beauties there exist regular daily challenges that foreigners have to overcome to enjoy their time here.

In this series of articles, we hope to answer some of the questions that foreigners commonly come up with during their stays in Turkey.

Please feel free to forward your questions to the Lale editor or directly to Karen in the Akinci Law office at info@akincilaw.com. We hope you have a trouble free stay in Turkey!

Q) Does Turkey have the same basic rules for driving a car as we have in the UK? I mean, for example, can I keep using my British driver’s licence or do I need to change it? What tax do I have to pay and what insurance do I need? Do the children have to have a car seat? Can I carry a dog in the car?

A) The writer of this question was British and the first thing I would say is please be aware that the rule of driving on the right hand side of the road extends to going around roundabouts anticlockwise as well!

On a more serious note it is perfectly valid for tourists and temporary visitors to drive in Turkey on a foreign driving licence. You can hire a car or drive your own car. However, according to Law number 2918 you should have an international licence or change your licence to a Turkish licence after being in Turkey for a while.

Tax and insurance on your car are compulsory in Turkey as you would expect, as is an MOT (muayene). The amount of tax you will pay depends on the make and model of your car and is payable twice a year at the tax office. There are two types of insurance that you may have on your car; the first is the compulsory third party insurance (zorunlu sigorta) and the second is the optional fully comprehensive insurance (Kasko). If you don’t pay your tax, you won’t be warned but when you go to have your periodic vehicle inspection, you will face a fine and interest on the unpaid tax. The periodic vehicle inspection is compulsory and has to be taken care of in the official periodic vehicle inspection centres (Araç Muayene İstasyonları). There are 13 MOT centres in Istanbul in Pendik, Dudullu, Esenyurt and etc… You have to keep your car’s official papers in the car so that you can show them to the police when you are stopped at a police control point, otherwise you will be fined and you may have your car impounded.

The rules in Turkey on carrying children in cars have been changed very recently and this has caught many foreigners offguard. Effective from 1 June 2010, it became compulsory to carry children under the height of 135 cm and/or weight of 36 kg in a car seat. A booster seat may not be enough. Currently there are no laws concerning carrying animals in cars in Turkey, however you should be careful that your animal is travelling safely as you may be held liable for any accident caused by a loose animal in the car.

Q) Can I bring Lucy (my dog) and Tom (my cat) to join me Turkey?

I miss them and they are driving my mum mad.

A) The simple answer is yes. In order to bring your pet with you when travelling to Turkey, you should have a document confirming your ownership of the pet, an official veterinarian health certificate which must be issued within 15 days prior to your entry into Turkey and its vaccination card. Turkey does not have a quarantine requirement. You should also make sure that you have your pet in-

36

oculated against rabies. Finding a good veterinary surgeon is very important so that they can give you good advice on keeping your pet healthy in Turkey. When deciding whether or not to bring your pet, you should consider how long you will stay and where you are likely to go next as you should not forget that some countries may have stringent quarantine laws when repatriating your pet and that there are very few organisations in Turkey which can help you to rehouse your pet if you need to leave quickly.

Q) I came for an extended break to visit friends in Istanbul but I’ve been offered a job in Turkey. Do I have to go back to my country to get a work permit or residence permit?

A) Congratulations, we love it when people decide to stay! No, you don’t have to go back to get your residency and work permit; you can apply for it whilst in Turkey.

Permission is required from the Ministry of Work and Social Security for self-employed persons, foreigners under professional training, and foreign employees. Since you are in Turkey you would go to the Ministry (T.C Çalışma ve Sosyal Güvenlik Bakanlığı) and make the application in person for a residence permit (You can issue a power of attorney in order for someone to do this for you.] You will need to submit a petition along with your visa, a copy of your passport, and the trade registry gazette statement, signature circular and tax form of the company that you will be working for. You will first need to be given a minimum six-month residence permit before you or your employer can apply for the work permit. Again, once you have your residence permit you can apply for your work permit, you can fill in an online application or send the necessary documents via the post to the Ministry of Labour and Social Security in Ankara. You can find all the necessary documents and the application form in Annex-1of the Application Regulation for the Law on Work Permits of Foreigners. Had you been in your own country, you or your employer could have applied to the nearest Turkish Consulate. There are some jobs that may be difficult to get a work permit for because they are reserved for Turkish nationals, examples are nannies and carers, notaries, lawyers, doctors, judges, prosecutors and pharmacists.

A work permit is usually given for one year and can be extended for a further two years if the employer, place of employment and situation do not change, after this period it can be extended for a three year term and you are free to change jobs but you have to remain in the same area of business.

Once a foreigner has been in Turkey for eight years or more, with at least six years of employment, a work permit without a time or employment limit can be given. Time spent as a student in Turkey will not be counted in this eight-year period.

Furthermore, after living in Turkey for a number of years, you can apply for nationality under certain circumstances. We will talk about nationality issues in more detail later in this series.

September & October 2010

September & October 2010

37

38

September & October 2010

September & October 2010

39

Michael Kuser

lale features Fun at the table with family and friends A culinary guide for native and expatriate cooks living anywhere in the world, but especially geared to those living in Turkey

O

pening up Dolores Freely’s new cookbook is somewhat like stepping through a time portal to another age, that time just fifty or sixty years ago when most women married young and had a passel of kids before you could blink. But some things never change, for her recipes from a lifetime of traveling and living abroad are meant for the busy homemaker, which all are.

Dolores Freely

Of course the recipes in International Menus for the Globetrotter: 20 complete menus from soup to desserts and more – published by Çitlembik Publications (2010) – also are meant for fun, for entertaining, which the author says became an increasingly important part of her life as her children grew up and left home.

Dolores Freely particularly dedicates this lovely new cookbook to her father, who inspired her to love cooking at an early age. In the introduction she recounts how she used to watch in fascination when her father cooked for the family on Sundays in their Brook-

lyn home. Indeed, the first recipe I came to on cracking the book open: ‘My Father’s Macaroni and Cheese’ – a nice home twist on the way her father liked it back in the day.

It’s a good thing she didn’t grow up in my house, for then we likely wouldn’t be graced with this cookbook at all. My father also cooked on Sundays, but we all watched in horror, as his only claim to fame was having been a 17-year-old cook in the U.S. Army, discharged at the end of the war with the ability to make practically inedible scrambled eggs.

Dolores spent her adult life as a mother and housewife in Princeton, Istanbul, Boston, Venice and Athens, but mostly in Istanbul, which is why this international cookbook has a distinctly Turkish flair. For example, she describes how to find and prepare Americanstyle celery in Turkey. And the entertaining aspect of cooking comes to the fore in the Turkish section, which she calls Rakı Table, and wherein she delivers a half-dozen or so meze recipes.

A night out in a popular “meyhane”. An example of some of the meze for a Turkish “rakı table”.

The author describes beginning to learn another culture via a French cookbook she found at the university bookstore in Princeton, looking longingly at the pictures of French countryside and reproducing the dishes one by one for her family. The Freelys eventually traveled to France, she says, but opens her Russian menu section with fond memories of the Rejans Restaurant in Istanbul.

Some force of Russian spirit must have entered her cooking soul, for she is anything but shy. Dolores prefaces one recipe by saying that, if one follows the directions exactly, “this is the most delicious beef stroganoff you will ever taste.”

In short, this new cookbook is a light-hearted but serious offering from a lifetime in the kitchen. Whether you choose to make her lemon squares, a Spanish version of roast lamb, or sea bass Italian style, you will be happy to have made the culinary acquaintance of Dolores Freely. As she says in the introduction, each recipe brings back memories of family reunions and dinner parties full of laughter – and hopes that they go on to do the same for you.

40

September & October 2010

September & October 2010

41

mums ‘n kids 1)STORY TELLING TIME FOR TOTS

Welcome back everyone!

I

hope you all had a healthy, happy, fun filled yet restful summer. My name is Jasmine Bolton-Yüzer. I stepped into my good friend Jolie Turkmen’s place as Mums ‘N Kids coordinator. We were all sad to see her go and I realize that I have big shoes to fill, but I hope with your support we can make this a fun and beneficial year for all. Some of you might remember me, or at least my name, from years back when I was the program coordinator, vice-chair, and chairwoman (2001-2004). Needless to say, it has been a while since I have been on the board and active in the IWI. In the past six years I have had two children, Atilla Kaan age 6, and Batuhan age 4, and have been keeping myself more than occupied as a stay at home mother for my two energetic, loving, and rambunctious little boys.

Looking for something to do with your tot Monday afternoon?

English Story telling at Tirtil Kids Book Store in Mohini is the perfect place to stop by to hear a good story. So if your tot likes new and interesting books and hearing stories read aloud, stop by at the time and date seen below for a reprieve from TV and DVDs and listen to stories that will capture your child’s attention and take her on a journey into her imagination. Please note this program is most likely suitable for ages 2 – 4 years.

When: Monday, September 27th Time: 2 PM Where: Tirtil Book Store in Mohini Mall – Etiler Cost: Free Contact: Jasmine Yuzer at jasmine@iwi-tr.org or 0533 717 2889

2) CRAFT TIME FOR NEW READERS

Enjoy being creative with your new reader and get them interested in reading. Making things at the Tirtil Kids Book Store is the place to be for our hard working kindergarden, first and second graders. Having fun with books and learning to love to read is a treasure of a lifetime.

When: Saturday October 2nd Time: 2 PM Where: Tirtil Kids Book Store in Mohini Mall – Etiler Cost: Free Contact: Jasmine Yuzer at jasmine@iwi-tr.org or 0533 717 2889

3)CONNECTION PARENTING TALK Now that the boys are going to be in school full time, the urge to do something was stronger than ever, and what better to do than to get back into the IWI in an active way! I am ready to contribute what I have learned these past six years and help other women in coping with the challenges that motherhood presents. Every year, I would come to the opening meeting, renew my membership, and attend playgroups regularly, but that was about it, with the exception of attending the Christmas Bazaar. Although my participation was limited these past 6 years, I have always felt a love and indebtedness to the institution of the IWI for being my gateway to adapting to a new life, a new culture, and new environment.

I have met some of my best friends through the IWI and look forward to meeting many more at functions and activities. Often, people support the IWI when they are new, lonely, and in need of some direction. I urge you all to encourage all your foreign friends to renew their memberships and show their loyalty and support for all the good that IWI does.

Don’t forget your roots! Staying linked to the IWI community is always useful. So, in having said that, here I am, back again willing and ready to serve! I look forward to meeting all of our Mums ‘N Kids and to hearing your input and feedback on programs, activities, and special events that we will offer this year. I wish all of you an easy transition getting back into routine and going back to school. Stay linked-in and see you soon!

‘Connection Parenting’ is an approach to parenting that is mutually benifical to the parent and child. Learn how to teach your children in a loving and caring way and work through frustrations.

Sociologist, researcher, educator, children's book author, and mother of two, Sedef Örsel Özçelik will provide us with the know how to be successful parents and to raise caring and well rounded children. This talk is for mothers of children of all ages, all can benifit from this parenting philosophy.

When: Wednesday October 13th Time: 11 AM Where: IWI Office – Ahmet Adnan Saygun Caddesi, Çamlitepe Sitesi, No: 74, Blok C1 / D: 2, Ulus, Ortakoy, Istanbul 34347 Cost: Free, Light refreshments to be served Note: The talk will last from 30-45 minutes and have a Q&A period

4) CPR FOR INFANTS AND TODDLERS

The idea of having to act should your child have an accident is a reality that we should face, instead of avoid. Participation in a CPR course can help you be prepared just in case a problem should arise. This course provides hands on practice in CPR (heart massage) and chocking maneuvers for children 0-8 years old. We will also discuss ways to prevent chocking, SIDS, drowning and other accidents.

-Date, Time, and Location: TBA via e-mail bulletin -Cost: 50 TL, including all course materials, hand outs, as well as snacks

5)HALLOWEEN PARTY The Mums ‘N Kids Team, 2009 - 2010 Jasmine Yüzer

jasmine@iwi-tr.org

0533 717 2889

Gigi Aksu

gaksu05@yahoo.com

0530 645 9494

42

Come and delight in the fright! Dress up as an Ottoman princess, dress up your little one as Buzz Lightyear, or whatever tickles your fancy for a good ol-fashioned fun-filled candy extravaganza!

Games, prizes for best dressed parent and child, and surprises are in store for our little munchkins! Details coming soon via the IWI e-mail bulletin.

September & October 2010

Mums ‘n Kids IWI MUMS ‘N KIDS MEETINGS & PLAYGROUPS: 1) PREGNANT MUMS & MUMS WITH INFANTS 0 – 18 MONTHS An opportunity to meet other pregnant ladies and mums of infants and to share the joys and trials of motherhood while creating a support network. A guest speaker is invited periodically to talk to the group regarding pregnancy and new parenting topics.

-When: Every Tuesday -Time: 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM -Location: Rotating turns at mums’ homes and pre-arranged places -Cost: Free -Co-Coordinators (European side): Karolina Meisloch at karolina@meisloch.com or 0531 695 7887 and Andrea Karapinar at a.koziel@gmx.de or 0533 276 0582

2) 18 –36 MONTHS PLAYGROUP This is a fun playgroup for our active toddlers.

-When: Every Tuesday -Time: 10 AM – 12 PM -Location: Rotating turns at mums’ homes and pre-arranged places -Cost: Free -Coordinator: Gigi Aksu at gaksu05@yahoo.com or 530 645 9494

IWI MUMS ‘N KIDS ASIAN SIDE PLAYGROUPS: 1) PREGNANT MUMS & MUMS WITH INFANTS 0 – 18 MONTHS An opportunity to meet other pregnant ladies and mums of infants and to share the joys and trials of motherhood while creating a support network. A guest speaker is invited periodically to talk to the group regarding pregnancy and new parenting topics.

-When: Every Tuesday -Time: 11 AM – 1 PM -Location: Rotating turns at mums’ homes and pre-arranged places -Cost: Free -Coordinator (Asian side): Lucille Abendanon at lucille.abendanon@gmail.com or 0534 971 6584

2) “ASIAN BABIES” FOR 3 MONTHS AND UP -When: Every Wednesday -Time: 10 AM - 12 PM -Location: Pre-arranged meeting place -Cost: Free -Coordinator: Aischa Erten at aischa@erten.net or 0532 324 2739

3) ASIAN SIDE WEEKEND PLAYGROUP This is our weekend playgroup for working and non-working IWI mums who like to meet on Saturdays to socialize with their babies and toddlers.

-When: Every Saturday -Time: Mornings or afternoons - according to majority decision -Location: Rotating turns at moms’ homes and outdoors -Cost: Free -Coordinator: Jane Örer at janeorer@hotmail.com

Announcements IWI “MUMS ‘N KIDS” RESOURCE AND SUPPORT GROUPS: 1) CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS - For resources and recommended specialists for children with special needs. Contact Debbie Sainte-Rose at debbiesainterose@ yahoo.com or 0531 769 1368.

2) ATTACHMENT PARENTING INTERNATIONAL (API) - Non-profit group networking parents & professionals to help parents find the support, information & empowerment they need to form strong bonds and enduring relationships with their children.

Open to parents of children up to 3 years of age. Membership is free. Contact Nilufer Devecigil at ndevecigil@hotmail.com

3)BREAST FEEDING AND POST PARDUM SUPPORT GROUP La Leche League type instruction about breast feeding techniques and other relevant information, facilitated by doula Julia Steils Paçacıoglu.

-Date and Time: Every 2nd and 4th Wednesday starting October 13th -Location: Rotating mom’s homes -Cost: Free -Coordinator: Julia Steils Paçacıoglu Julia@fullcirclehealing.org 537 435 5552

INTERNATIONAL PRE-SCHOOLS & CENTERS’ PLAY GROUPS 1)BOSPHORUS INTERNATIONAL PRE-SCHOOL (BIP), EMIRGAN www.bipschools.net Teacher organized activity, song and circle time and half an hour of garden play (weather permitting). Coffee, tea, milk and cookies provided.

When: Tuesdays starting October 5th Time: 10 - 11:30 AM Cost: Free Age group: 0 -3 years of age Co-ordinator and reservations: Ms. Colette Laffan-Persembe at cpersembe@bipschool.net or 0212-277 8444 Note: Call Mondays to reserve, there are only 10 spots. Only one known adult per child please.

2) BRITISH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL (BIS), ZEKERIYAKOY AND ETILER www.bis.k12.tr Indoor and outdoor garden play (weather permitting) followed by snack and music time. Known adult to stay and supervise child.

Days and locations: Tuesdays and Thursdays in Zekeriyakoy and Mondays and Fridays in Etiler beginning Tuesday, September 14th Time: 9 -11 AM (both campuses) Cost: 10 TL per session Age group: 0 – 2 ½ years of age Co-ordinator and reservations: Mrs. Amanda Ilhan, Preschool and Primary Deputy Director at amandailhan@bis.k12.tr or 0212 202 70 27 ext. 116

3) EDEN’S GARDEN INTERNATIONAL PRE-SCHOOL, YENIKOY www.edensgardenpreschool.com Teacher co-ordinated song and story time along with baby music

September & October 2010

43

mums ’n kids and ballet in the dance room, arts and crafts in the ceramics studio, or garden play (weather permitting). Known adult must supervise child. Bring soft slippers. Organizes birthday parties.

When: Thursdays Time: 9:30 – 11: 30 AM Cost: 30 TL per session; includes a brunch at 10:30 AM Age Group: 0 – 3 years Co-ordinator and reservations: Ms.Christina Heath at director@ edensgardenpreschool.com or 0212 262 43 02

Kids ‘N summertime

4)WOODSVIEW INTERNATIONAL NURSERY & PRESCHOOL, TARABYA www.woodsviewpreschool.com Indoor and garden play (weather permitting) followed by snack time.

Coffee, tea and biscuits for mums. Known adult must stay with child.

When: Wednesdays Time: 2 PM – 3:30 PM Fee: Free Age group: 0 – 3 years Coordinator and reservations: Ms. Sharon Harding at Sharon@ woodsviewpreschool.com or 0212 299 39 06(-67 65)

5)ETILER KEMER KIDS’ GARDEN, ETILER www.kemer.k12.tr Native English speaker teacher lead playgroup. Known adult must supervise child.

When: Wednesdays Time: 2:30 – 4 PM Cost: Free Age group: 0 – 3 years Co-ordinator and reservations: Ms. Esra Durust, at ekids@kemer. k12.tr or 0212 265 1723 or 0212 263 66 98

6)GYMBOREE, LEVENT www.gymboreeturkey.com Features THREE exciting playgroup options for our Mums N Kids: (1)‘Free play’ for 0- 5 year olds, including coffee or a drink for mums.

When: Every Monday Time: 3:30 – 5:30 PM Cost: 25 TL per session

Do you wonder what our kids did during the summer ? Here are few examples...

(2)‘Play and Learn’ 45 minute class in English and Turkish at a group rate discount including food, beverage, and free play.

Days, times, and age group Wednesdays: 10 AM for Level 2 and L3 (6 -10 months) and (10 – 16 months) Thursdays: 10 AM for Level 4 (16 – 22 months) Fridays:10:30 AM for Level 5 and L6 (22 – 28 mos) & (28 – 36mos) Cost: 35 TL per class (Note: 8 week minimum for groups of 5) (3)‘Drop off Program’ for ages 2 -3.5 years, including snack, music, art, fitness and play classes.

When: Tuesdays and Thursdays Time: 10 AM – 12:30 PM Cost: 70 TL Co-ordinator: Ms. Esra Tasar at esratasar@gymboreeturkey.com or 0212 282 7666 IWI’S “MUMS ‘N KIDS TEAM” ORGANIZES ACTIVITIES FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILDREN TO ENJOY. WE REMIND YOU THAT YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR CHILD’S SAFETY AT ALL TIMES. IWI CANNOT TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR INJURY AND EXTRA COST INCURRED DURING ANY ACTIVITY.

44

September & October 2010

* Seçil Totan, M.D. (Otolaryngologist)

mums ‘N kids

FEVER CONUNDRUM PFAPA syndrome, which was first described by Marshal and friends in 1987, is a syndrome mostly seen under the age of 5, including relapsing fever, oral aphtous lesions (mouth sores), pharyngitis and lumps on the neck. The fever is episodic, meaning every 21-28 days (every month, often families know the exact day when an attack will start), a 39oC fever occurs and lasts for 3-6 days. It can be accompanied by a sore throat, mouth ulcers, or enlarged cervical lymph nodes. During episodes, the child looks very ill and complains about at least one of the three symptoms mentioned above. On the day the fever starts, the child will feel a little bit ill before the attack and the family knows an attack is about to start. Not all children have all symptoms, especially mouth sores. Some children have other symptoms like joint pain, abdominal pain, headache, vomiting or diarrhea.

The answer to what causes this syndrome is not yet known. No gene defect has yet to be found in PFAPA, although in some cases more than one family member has the disease. No infectious cause has been found in PFAPA, thus it is not a contagious disease.

It is clear that the inflammatory process is activated during episodes, but it is not clear why it is triggered.

There are no laboratory tests, or imaging procedures, specific for diagnosing PFAPA. The disease is diagnosed based on the results of a physical examination and other symptoms. Inflammatory blood tests like the white blood cell count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate and the C-reactive protein are increased during attacks.

Before the diagnosis is confirmed, it is important to exclude all other diseases that may present with similar symptoms (especially a streptococcal throat). The dramatic response to treatment (see below) also helps diagnose PFAPA. Beacuse the cause is unknown, there is no specific treatment to cure PFAPA. The aim of treatment is to control symptoms during the episodes of fever. In most children, the disease will resolve by itself without treatment, usually after the age of 10 years. A single dose of steroids (usually prednisone), given when symptoms first appear, has been shown to shorten an episode and sometimes even end the episode. However, the interval between episodes may also be shortened with this treatment, and the next episode may occur earlier than expected. In patients with very frequent attacks, a tonsillectomy (removing the tonsils by surgery) may be considered.

Over time, the intervals between the episodes will increase and usually after the age of 10 years resolve by itself. Children with PFAPA continue to grow and develop normally.

TERRACE FULYA, Hakkı Yeten Cad. No:11 D:15 34365 Fulya, Şişli - İstanbul Tel: +90 212 2155201 GSM:+90 530 7810011 REFERENCES: 1. PFAPA Sendromu: Bir Periyodik Ateş Tablosu, Fırat Tıp Dergisi 2006;11(1): 75-77, Metehan ÖZEN, Gül YÜCEL, İnönü Üniversitesi Tıp Fakültesi, Malatya http://my.clevelandclinic.org

GYMB01_LaleMagEylul2010C 8/6/10 5:12 PM Page 1 C

September & October 2010

Composite

M

Y

CM

MY

CY CMY

K

45

mums ‘n kids

Nick Cullen*

EDUCATIONAL REFRESHER TIPS

A

ccording to specialists in the field of education most children lose some knowledge and skills over the summer holiday period. I read recently that it is not uncommon for teachers to spend upwards of four to six weeks at the start of the new school year re-teaching material that pupils had forgotten over lengthy term breaks. Math calculation skills show the greatest decline but comprehension capability is also likely to deteriorate.

Assisting your child to maintain (or even enhance) his or her reading and math skills over the summer months and particularly in the weeks leading up to the start of term is essential to continued learning and development. As part of our focus on childhood literacy and education, the Tirtil Kids team provides below some simple tips for parents to smooth the transition for your child from summer fun back into the classroom:»»

Visit a bookshop or library each week with your budding bookworm to brush up on reading, vocabulary and punctuation skills.

To ensure kids enjoy the experience let your child select a book (within a pre-agreed price range to avoid instore dramas !) that they find of interest. After all you want to be sure your child will read it cover to cover once you are home. Do check however to make sure that the book is of a suitable level or ask the shop assistant if you are not sure. A book that is too hard can be frustrating.

A book that’s too easy will be boring. But a book that’s “just right” helps kids have fun reading and encourages learning.

»»

When selecting books, keep in mind that reading is not only about storybooks and novels. Hobby, sports and comic books can be just as beneficial. The important thing is to maintain the young reader’s attention by tapping into his/her interests.

»»

If you are planning a trip to a museum or art gallery why not purchase a child friendly book about world famous artists or sculptors. The visit will be so much more interesting and fulfilling for all of the family if your child has the opportunity to learn some facts in advance about the featured artist or exhibit.

»»

Reading doesn’t have to be a solitary event. It can and should sometimes be interactive. Mom and dad, take the time to read with your kids whatever their age may be. Each family member can take it in turn to read a page aloud. At the end of each chapter take some time to discuss the storyline (for instance what do you think will happen next, discuss the characters, what would you have done if put in the same situation, etc). This will encourage young readers to focus on the book content and provide a fun family bonding session.

»»

Reading theatre script titles is also great fun for younger children and enables them to hone their reading and role-play skills. Invite some of your child’s friends over and each can read a character part in these well known story lines. Some of these series even come with masks to encourage the kids to “get into” the role. Each character’s spoken lines are color coded to facilitate the reader knowing when to speak. Unknown to the kids the character text in

46

each book is also graded according to difficulty so you can allocate roles (if required) according to reading ability. »»

Educational workbooks and question and answer (Q&A) box sets are great aides to brush up youngster’s classroom skills. Select workbooks that have a colorful and appealing layout and format so kids are more likely to be attracted to them. Younger children like to earn stars or merit stickers for exercises successfully completed.

»»

The fun Q&A format taps directly into the pleasure youngsters derive from proving what they know and learning what they don’t.

Also the portability of Q&A box sets ensure they are the perfect travel companion and can be played in pairs (with a parent or a sibling) or larger groups. Whether at home over breakfast, in the car or while standing in line at the supermarket, the Q&A format engages kids academically.

»»

Internet and video games so often these days transfix older children. Multi-platform titles (books that are internet linked) bridge the gap between reading and gaming and are particularly useful for reluctant teenage readers.

»»

Practice math skills when visiting the supermarket with mom and dad. Have your child compare prices to determine the best deals and estimate the total cost as you shop.

»»

Kids can practice their addition in restaurants by writing down the cost of all the dishes ordered on a paper napkin and seeing if the final figure matches the invoice.

»»

When taking a car journey ask your child to calculate the distance remaining and estimate the time it will take to get to your destination based on your speed and how far you still have to travel.

Summer can present wonderful and varied learning opportunities and experiences for children. So in the final weeks before school reconvenes why not spend some time with your children “brushing up” their English and math skills. Good luck and please remember that children learn best when they are having fun !

NOTE: The Tirtil Kids specialist, multi-language bookshop stocks a wide range of education books for children of all ages and grades. We also work closely with many of the top schools in Istanbul. Our experienced staff will be pleased to advise parents on book titles to meet their child’s specific needs. For those who are unable to visit our shop in Etiler we offer an online purchasing facility via our website www.tirtilkids.com.

* Co-owner of Tirtil Kids Address: Mohini Children’s Mall, Etiler, Istanbul Tel: 0212 351 1944

September & October 2010

September & October 2010

47

mums ‘n kids

Sedef Örsel Özçelik*

First steps into school Starting preschool is always difficult on both the parents and children.

These tips might make your life a little easier...

S

tarting preschool is an exciting time both for your child and for you as the parent. However, this adjustment period can be tough and scary for both of you, as well. Here are some approaches you may try during the next couple of months to prepare both yourself and your child for the wonderful step in your life together...

Some physical approaches to prepare for starting school:

• Doing some creative art togetherFinger painting, drawing, coloring with crayons, molding clay... These activities all help developing both the visual and fine motor skills of your child. And these two skills are most needed for writing.

Improving his competence may help his confidence. In addition, doing simple mazes and connect-the-dot pictures can also be pretty helpful for developing visual and fine motor skills of your child.

• Asking your child to do some simple tasks all by herself- Simple tasks like pouring a glass of milk/water, using a fork and a spoon, hanging her own jackets after taking them off... Some simple tasks that she will be expected to perform at school, and which also help learning coordination. Learning coordination also helps developing fine motor skills.

• Visiting the school at least once before the first day- Giving your child an opportunity to see his new classroom, where the bathrooms are, where the playground is, where the lunchroom is. And also visit the drop off and pick up area. You can explain at each of these spots what she will be doing during the day. Walking through the school will help your child get familiar with the physical environment. (If you can make this visit during an actual school day, your child will also get a chance to see the children on action)...

• Learning about the daily schedule at school- You can play school with your child at home. Practicing the daily schedule: waking up at the time that your child will wake up after she starts going to school; eating breakfast, snacks and lunch at the times she will be eating at school will help a smoother transition for her little body's biological clock.

• Including your child in the getting ready for school process- You can go on little shopping trips with your child. You can buy his arts supplies, lunch box, school outfits/uniforms together. Letting him make his own choices will help him internalize the idea of starting and going to school, as well.

48

Some mental approaches to prepare for starting school:

• Reading to your child at least for 15-20 minutes everyday- Children's vocabulary shows vast improvement when they are read everyday. A good vocabulary is proven to help learning to read and write.

• Practicing listening- Listening and following directions are fundamental at school. So helping your child be prepared would be very helpful. You can play listening games with her. You can ask her to close her eyes and listen to all the sounds around her.

Or you can play 'Simon says' to encourage following directions.

Another idea is to play school with her. You take turns in being the teacher and the student, and telling made up stories to each other.

Some emotional/social approaches to prepare for starting school:

• Talking to your kid about their new school- Prepare your child about what he would expect on the first day and on a common day at school by talking to him. Listen to any worries that he may have. Addressing all his fears, concerns or worries is utmost important. Help him calm all his worries and fears with information.

You can read books and stories about starting school.

• Pointing out peers who already started school- Meet with other children who go to school already. By positively talking together with other children about their school experiences, you might help your child have a mental picture.

• Creating a good-bye ritual- To make the separation easier for your child and to ensure her that you'd be back to pick her up, you can create a special good-bye ritual. You may even want to start this ritual before starting the school. This could be a special or silly phrase you may use "Hey diddle diddle, I will be back with a fiddle" or a gesture like a high-five... Something special for you two... This will help enhance her feeling of attachment to you and help her feel more secure. But whatever you do, don't sneak out!

This will only make your child more distressed.

• Practicing social skills- School is a social environment. So preparing your child socially will be very helpful. Your child will take turns, share toys, make choices, etc. Organizing play dates with other kids and moms will provide good opportunities to practice these skills.

• Having a positive outlook- Children are extra sensitive to their parents' feelings. If you have any worries and concerns about your child starting to school... this will directly affect your child's emotional state in a negative way. On the contrary, when you are upbeat and positive, your child will be relaxed. Only when she's relaxed, she will have a pleasant experience. * Childrens’ book author, educator, and sociologist www.cocukluyuzbiz.com September & October 2010

mums ‘n kids

September & October 2010

49

excerpts from a book

Browsing through a handbook Pat Yale’s “A Handbook for Living in Turkey” is the perfect guide to learn about Turkish culture...

Here’s a little example... to fit in. However, Turkey is very different from the media images of Islamic countries like Iran and Syria. Certainly it is Islamic (98% of the population is Muslim). However, for historic reasons to do with its crossroads location and unique history, Turkey wears its Islam pretty lightly. For example the ban on drinking alcohol, which is taken so seriously in countries like Iran and Saudi Arabia, tends to be shrugged off in Turkey. That is not to say that everybody drinks alcohol or that it is always readily available. However, it is generally accepted that foreigners like their beer and wine and only rarely will that be a problem.

Likewise, although women in rural areas still tend to cover their heads and dress in many more layers of clothing than are strictly justified by the need to keep warm, in the big cities many women go bare-headed and many younger women wear clothing as skimpy and skin-tight as in the West. Very few Turks expect foreigners to put on a headscarf although most of them appreciate it if women keep their legs and shoulders covered and if men avoid Lycra-style, leave-nothing-to-the-imagination cycling shorts.

However, while Turkey can seem superficially pretty Westernised– especially if you restrict your travels to Istanbul and the coast–the reality is that the Turkish mindset is often very different from that of the West. Scrape below the surface and you will quickly come up with surprises.

It’s never wise to generalise about big groups of people. That said, however, it is probably true to say that Turks are generally more gregarious than people from Western Europe and the USA. Individuality is not a prized virtue; rather, people are admired for fitting in with their family, friends and neighbours. Personal space is not much valued either (although this is changing in the big cities); friends expect to be able to drop in on you at any time of day or night, people will sit almost in your lap on buses, and it is not thought normal to want to eat alone, go to the pictures alone or do anything else alone.

CULTURE SHOCK AND THE TURKISH CHARACTER If you want to live in Turkey it pays to understand as much as you can about the society you are moving into. If your first experiences of Turkey have been on holiday in one of the resorts you may well have decided that the Turks are very similar to Westerners.

However, with longer acquaintance you might come to discover that this isn’t the whole picture and that the differences can be very important. The degree of culture shock may not be overwhelming but sometimes the country can seem more profoundly different with longer acquaintance rather than the other way round. That is one of the things that makes living here so endlessly intriguing.

Most people who have never visited the country think of Turkey as a Muslim country and assume it will be difficult for a non-Muslim

50

Marriage and children are still hugely important in Turkey even if divorce is becoming more common. Because they are so important – and because a woman’s status is still so dependent on her marital status – foreigners have to get used to be asked whether they are married almost in the same breath as they are asked their name; it is not meant to be nosiness or insulting although that is how it can come across to people used to having their private life treated with more circumspection.

Foreigners also have to get used to other unexpected questions and statements. Turks think nothing of enquiring the price of your every purchase (in the same way that they think it quite normal to announce to the assembled crowd exactly how much everyone has given as a wedding gift). Nor do they think it rude to comment on any weight gain or signs of exhaustion or ageing that you may show. This can take some getting used to, especially for women.

Turkish men and women did not traditionally touch each other in public, although this, too, is changing in the big cities. In rural areas, however, men and women are still generally segregated; people move around inside their houses as well as on buses to September & October 2010

make sure that unrelated men and women are not seated beside each other. Elderly people are treated with respect; you greet them by kissing their hand and touching it briefly to your forehead. Women greet each other with an embrace and a kiss on each cheek; men are more likely to shake hands. It is still not unknown to come across devout men who would not shake hands with a woman even in a business situation; they may put their hands behind their backs if you reach out to them. Similarly, some men will place change on the counter rather than hand it directly to a woman.

In general Turks are more relaxed about alcohol than other Muslims.

However what goes on the coast and in the cities doesn’t necessarily go down as well in rural areas.

In the country most women would never touch alcohol and even men may do so more rarely than in the West. Even men who drink in the week may opt not to do so on from

September & October 2010

Thursday night through to Saturday morning as a nod towards Islamic tradition. Rural weddings are often ‘dry’, at least on the surface.

The Turkish language contains a series of set phrases to deal with routine events such as sickness and death (see p. 438). It is also normal to spin out greetings and farewells, rather than rushing to get things over and done with, as in the West.

‘Turkish time’ is a jokey concept used to refer to the traditional tendency to treat appointments as approximations rather than fixed points in time.

However, in areas visited by many foreigners, most Turks will respect exact appointments as far as they can.

Turks have a horror of draughts which means that houses are often horribly overheated by Western standards. Never offer a Turkish child an iced drink –their parents will have an apoplexy!

51

OTHER GROUPS & ASSOCIATIONS Alcoholics Anonymous / Al-Anon

Open AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) meetings are held in the Union Hanbuilding on Istiklal Caddesi, Tünel, next to the Swedish Consulate at 7 pm every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and at 6:30 every Thursday. We also have a Sunday meeting in Harbiye at 4:15 pm.

Contact Michael: 05327616466 or 05374338368. michael.kuser@gmail.com For details see: www.aa-europe.net/ countries/turkey.htm

Art Lovers of Istanbul

ALI is an informal group for artists, art collectors and all art lovers living in Istanbul. It is open for any English speaker who enjoys the arts. We hold monthly meetings to share our ideas and talents.

We meet to create and inspire! For more information visit www. artloversofistanbul.com or contact us through artloversofistanbul@hotmail.com

know about Turkey, whilst making new friends and discovering new activities and interests. Aiming to help each other to settle in with tips, trips, food demos, potluck lunches and a little charity help when and we can manage it.

Circolo Roma

The Italian Association organizes several activities, such as rithmic gymnastic for girls, cooking classes, drawing and painting, yoga, salsa dance, Italian and Turkish conversation, sale of Italian Books, Italian Cinema and more and more. The wonderfull liberty hall can be used for private parties and conferences upon contribution.

Please contact info@circoloroma.com.

Die Brücke

The Friends of ARIT Istanbul, with branches in North America and Ankara, was established to support the ARIT in Turkey and carry out its scholarly activities. The Istanbul Friends run a year-round program of tours and lectures for members and guests. Membership is open to all interested residents of Istanbul. For further information: 0212 257 81 11.

“DIE BRÜCKE e.V.” (‘THE BRIDGE’) is a platform for the German speaking community. It was founded in 1989 to serve the needs of a steadily growing community. It is not a German club; it is open for everyone who speaks German. “DIE BRÜCKE e.V.” issues a monthly newsletter. Different gatherings, charities, information concerning daily life, bi-national education, help with bureaucracy and immigration laws in Turkey are covered as well as assistance to newcomers. Many cultural activities are also organized, like visits to concerts or exhibitions. Contact: +90 212 458 98 50, www. bruecke-istanbul.org, info@bruecke-istanbul.org

AWI (American Women of Istanbul)

NVI

ARIT (American Research Institute of Turkey)

The AWI is a social network open to Americans, Canadians and spouses of U.S. or Canadian citizens living in Istanbul. The AWI provides social programs ranging from special interest groups to charities. If you’re a newcomer to Istanbul please contact our newcomers committee so you can start to feel at home in your new country. Contact Sharon Lewis email: awiistanbul@gmail.com

British Community Council

The British Community council (founded 1942) supports ten pensioners and local charities by its fundraising events. Helpers and new members of the BCC are always welcome.. Contact person: Michael Ashor, chairman@bccistanbul.org, 0212 2497 296, 0 545 588 1933, www.bccistanbul.org

Bridge Group - All Levels

Our bridge group meets on Fridays at 11a.m. All levels of bridge players are welcome. Please contact Sandra at (212) 257-9781 or 0532-483--5319.

CHICAS - Spanish Speaking Women of Istanbul

A group open to all ladies who speak our language, or would like to practice it. We have lots of fun, hilarious Latin parties, and last but not least, cultural venues. Come on, jump on in, you won’t regret it! Contact: Ninoska Gutierrez Sierra 0533 651 35 81 , Norma Maranges 0532 314 29 34, Lorena Martinez 0533 388 63 09 e-mail: chicasestambul@yahoo.com.mx It has also an own blog: http://chicasestambul.blogspot.com/ and it’s in Facebook under “Chicas Estambul”.

Corona Ladies Group

Corona Ladies are an informal group of English speakers who would like to welcome you to Istanbul, explore the city together, and make the most of our time here. We have permanent members as well as new comers and are open to all nationalities (ability to speak English is necessary) who wish to join us in getting to

52

The Dutch club Istanbul is a group of people who like to keep typical Dutch festivities alive, for people who have connection to Holland, who like to meet up with Dutch speaking people. On a monthly basis we organize a get together. Among the festivities we do the typical celebrations like Sinterklass (5 December) and Koninginnedag (queensday). For further information and details check our website www.nv-istanbul.org or contact: secretariaat@ nv-istanbul.org Mariska Steenkamer 0530 828 65 65.

Fransız Fakirhanesi - Little Sisters of the Poor Contact: Mother Philomena 0212 296 46 08.

FOCI (Friends of Contemporary Istanbul)

Working with the international community in promoting the growth and development of contemporary art, the Friends of Contemporary Istanbul aim to enrich the rising art scent in Turkey and to contribute to the cultural life of Istanbul. For further information, please contact Jasmine Taranto – VIP Coordinator & International Relations at 0 212 244 7171, info@contemporaryistanbul.com

Friends of India

Contact: Geetali Bajpai 0542 292 92 34 or Sonica Purl 0544711 01 23

InterNations

is the first international online community for people who live and work abroad. Our network is represented by more than 230 local communities all over the world. InterNations users can exchange reliable information on expat-specific topics, both on a global and a local level. The members of InterNations Istanbul meet every month at different locations. Please contact Gundula Strittmatter for information and to join our Istanbul community: gstrittmatter@internations.org, 0538 6948728 www.internations.org September & October 2010

OTHER GROUPS & ASSOCIATIONS Istanbul Accueil

Welcomes French-speaking newcomers in Istanbul. We publish a bimonthly newsletter with many activity groups (bridge, baby groups, cooking, cultural outings and social events, etc.) Our common language is French and all French-speaking people are welcome! www.istanbulaccueil.org, email: istaccueil@gmail.com

The Istanbul Ottomans Rugby Club

Practice every Saturday afternoon at the Dikilitas Spor Klubu in Besiktas (directions available at www.ottomansrugby.com).

Players of all ages (14+) and levels of fitness welcome, including ladies for our newly formed Ottomans Women Rugby Club. Please contact Ozer Onkal at +90 533 482 6262 or email: ozer.ali.onkal@ ottomansrugby.com or ozer212@yahoo.com

Patchwork Group

Contact Cynthia Royce 0536 348 4086, cynthroyce@hotmail.com

PAWI (Professional American Women of Istanbul)

The Professional American Women of Istanbul, is a network of American/Canadian women and spouses of Americans/Canadians living in Istanbul. PAWI strives to empower and support members by promoting professional and personal growth. Members inspire each other to achieve and share success. PAWI meetings are held the second Saturday of each month. Each meeting features a guest speaker, and locations alternate between the European and Asian sides. Contact info@pawistanbul.com or visit www.pawistanbul.com

Support Group for Parents of Children with Special Needs

Looking for the support of other parents of children with special needs and additional resources for your child?

Please contact Debbie L Sainte-Rose for more information at 05317691368 or debbiesainterose@yahoo.com.

SWEA

(Swedish Women Educational Association) A world-wide network for Swedish or Swedish-speaking A worldwide network for Swedish or Swedish-speaking women with a chapter in Istanbul. Contact birgitta@turk.net.

Toastmasters International-Istanbul Chapter

English-speakÄąng Istanbul Toastmastersclub is the only local branch of Toastmasters International, an organization that helps its members improve their communication and leadership skills in a supportive enviroment. The ITM meets on the first and third Wednesday at 19.30 of each month at the Kervansaray Hotel in Taksim. Guests are welcome to attend two meetings free of charge. For further information contact: Edith Heidelberger, President 2010-2011, 0533 263 2806 or Alper Rozanes, Vice President Membership, 0532 243 3753.

SEDplatform for animals

SEDplatform has been formed by a handful of expat and local volunteers to make a change in the way animals are being perceived and treated in Turkey. To this aim, we have launched education in schools, educational activities, proper on-hand care of street animals, sterilization and adoptions campaigns, pet care brochures and World Animal Day activities in Istanbul. We have been active since 2001. Contacts: Big Dog Yuli 0532 314 8238, Kit Kat Robi 0542 423 0633 or Cat Lady Leyla 0555 404 3113; email: sahiplenelim@sed-tr.org New kitty site: www.onlarbizimkedilerimiz.org

Speech Bubbles

Is an international group aiming to perform high-quality Is an international group aiming to perform high-quality musical theater and donating the income to NGO’s supporting children and education. Speech Bubbles is composed of amateur and professional dancers, singers and musicians from II countries. Contact Tom Godfrey 0532 736 7702; www.speechbubbles.org

Sublime Portal

The Sublime Portal is your expat on-line community reference for all things Turkey. Here you can find a lively group of people who discuss everything about Turkey, network and organize social events. Over a 1000 members and still growing... www.sublimeportal.com *Please check our website www.iwi-tr.org for updates to this page. If you represent a group and want your group updated or listed on these pages, e-mail esbie@iwi-tr.org. These pages are for your information only; the IWI does not accept any responsibility regarding these groups or their activities.

September & October 2010

53

Directory

International Schools

54

September & October 2010

Directory

Classified Ads

TURKISH LESSONS: PRIVATE AND CONVERSATIONAL

For ladies and men, group or one to one lessons, at your home or workplace, from an experienced native teacher fluent in English and French. Adjustable to your needs and time schedule.

Please call 0530 310 21 32 or email rbensan@superonline.com for full information.

TEACHERS WANTED

Catherine Feyzioglu Dentist French, English, Turkish Dental care, prothesis, implants, parondontology Abdi Ipekçi cad no 12 daire 5 Nişantası Tel:0212 2330627 0532 2427578 cfcatherine@yahoo.fr

Tribal Collections CAPPADOCIA

Nomadic Rugs & Textiles

Ruth Lockwood & Faruk Çiftçi Address Tel / Fax Web

: Müze Yolu No : 24/C Göreme - Turkey : +90 384 271 2400 : www.tribalcollections.net

Language School for Children on the European side is seeking for Full Time and Part Time native English, French, German and Spanish teachers to teach children of ages 1-10.

Candidates who hold a working permit are prefered.

If you are interested please send your CV to mehvespekuysal@languagelands.com or call 0533 950 23 29

GUITAR LESSONS for Children or Adults

Private guitar lessons available in rock, blues or jazz by graduate of the Berklee College of Music with 30 years’ performance experience. Gentle, non-stressful approach with mature Turkish instructor who speaks English, French and German. Can travel to your home. Reasonable rates.

Contact: Ali Ağca, 0533 353-1221, erdoganagca@yahoo.com

PROFESSIONAL MASSAGE

I can come to your house: pregnant massage, cellulite massage, relaxing massage, full-body - osho rebalancing massage or wax.

Call me for more information Hatice Yildirim (Tirli) 0532 260 4118 / 0542 434 1932.

EXPAT MOVING SALE

BA/MBA conference interpreter offering lessons at your home all levels. Native speaker of Turkish AND English teaching everything from Business language to Conversation, from tech and daily stuff you must know. Please call April at 0533 376-7774 for easy and fun learning.

After 9 years of living in Istanbul: classic furniture, objects d’arts, and household goods, including Rattan sofa sets, Indonesian teakwood curio cabinet, Thai vases, carved indian furniture, and some silver pieces for sale too. These articles have been collected from different countries during several international assignments. For more info, contact Renu 0532 641 9998, hrkhosla@yahoo.com

BOSS-VIEW

STONE HOUSE

TURKISH LINGUIST SPECIALIST

(Bosphorus View) Historic Mansion $1.65m Yenikoy; Boss-view Historic Mansion $10m Sariyer by the Water, Swimmingpool/ Bar&B-Q; Boss-view Quadruplex Tarabya Heights, $1.65m to be negotiated for you; Boss-view Five-ruplex, Billiard room, indoor swimming pool, custommade and privately architectured; Bebek-Ortakoy-Gumussuyu-Cihangir fully-furnished Boss-view rentals! Please ask April: (0533) 376-7774

September & October 2010

For sale in Bodrum on 5600 sqm, with stylishly renovated guest house, private pool, surrounded by mandarin and pomegranate trees. Please contact Sule Mixon for more information: sulemixon@hotmail.com

55

IWI Policies & Advertising Membership

Membership is open to all women who hold a Non-Turkish passport or who are married to a foreign passport holding spouse. For application details, please visit our website www.iwi-tr.org.

Membership registration is also possible at our weekly “Newcomers Meeting” held every Thursday at Coffee Talk Café, Alkent, Etiler from 12:00 to 2:00 P.M. Parking is available. Contact the Newcomer Coordinators held every Thursday for information and directions. You can also become a member online.

Changing Address or Lale Problems?

Don’t forget to give us your new address (postal and I or e-mail) to avoid delay in the delivery of your Lale magazine or for up-to-date IWI member information..

Contact our Membership Secretary Patricia Proz by e-mail at membership@iwi-tr.org.

Advertising

To place an advertisement please contact Advertising Editor Chrissy Güleç, 0532 491 4463 or chrissy@iwi-tr.org. Advertisements must be confirmed by Chrissy through signed contract before any payment is accepted.

Classified ads are restricted to 50 words.

Member cost: $25 + 18% V. A. T. / Nonmember cost $60 + 18% V. A. T. All advertising costs are payable by bank transfer. No cash payments accepted. A copy of the payment transfer (dekont) should be sent via email: chrissy@iwi-tr. org. Only paid advertisements can be included in Lale.

Payment Details

Bank: Garanti Bankası Branch Code (Hesap Şubesi): 340 Etiler YTL Account (YTL Hesap): TR03 0006 2000 3400 0006 2991 17 USD Account (USD Hesap): TR09 0006 2000 3400 0009 0939 67 Customer Name: Istanbul Uluslararası Kadınlar Derneği İktisadi İşletmesi

Disclaimer Lale Content

The IWI as an organization and the IWI Board members act within the laws of Turkey pertaining to publishing but they do not accept any liability regarding the accuracy or content of the contributions supplied by our advertisers or members’ articles. In order to comply with these laws or publishing standards the IWI reserve the right to reject or edit any submission to Lale. Furthermore, the IWI does not accept any responsibility for any of the services rendered by any of our advertisers.

Programs

Cancellation of a program reservation after the deadline remains fully payable.

Please refer to our website www.iwi-tr. org for up to date details, last minute additions or program changes. The IWI reserves the right to cancel programs due to insufficient numbers. You are responsible for both you and your child’s safety and the IWI cannot accept responsibility for injury or extra cost incurred during any activity organized by the IWI, or advertised in Lale.

Advertisement deadline for every issue of the Lale is the first of the month prior to publication.

Membership Directory

It is strictly against IWI policy to give the Membership Directory to any non-member of the association. If requested by a non-member, or company to supply membership data please refer them to the IWI Chairwomen. Members are entitled to the directory for their personal use only, never for business purposes. All member information should be handled with confidentiality. Membership directories are available from the Membership Secretary.

INTELLIGENT beautiful cool

Advertisement Solutions Interactive Media Web Development Publishing Corporate Profile Make-up Design and Illustrations

simple

CREATIVE advertisement studios

Designer of the new Lale

www.marlet.com.tr 56

September & October 2010

Tel : +90 212 286 69 50 Tel : +90 212 286 73 75

LIFELONG MISSION STATEMENT