Page 33 - WINE DINE AND TRAVEL MAGAZINE FALL 2023 DISCOVERING TURKEY

creeping authoritarianism of President Recep typical dinner had doubled since our last visit
Erdogan. Government spending on religious a few years ago. A bottle of decent wine at a
institutions is resented since it’s viewed as restaurant begins around $40. Wine pur-
transparent ploys to woo conservative voters. chased at local markets is three times higher
People we talked to often shared anxiety and than the same wine in Spain, Portugal, France,
anger about the current state of the economy. and Italy. Accommodations, while more ex-
Runaway inflation, the highest in Europe, pensive, remain relatively affordable, although
soaring taxes, and a collapsing currency have we were charged an unexpected additional tax
pushed citizens to the brink of financial ruin. when we checked in.
Inflation hit a crippling 25-year high of 85.5 We felt and shared their pain and hope the
percent in late 2023. Turkish lira went from 8 Turkish economy and democracy survive and
to the U.S. dollar a year ago to 26 to the dollar thrive. While we were aware of nationwide
when we were there. problems, we didn’t let them dampen our en-
High taxes and inflation pushed prices up thusiasm for Turkey. Yes, our adventure here
for everyone, including visitors. The bill for a was expensive, but well worth every penny.

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