The Irish Times profiles the Irish in Turkey today, coinciding with the first day of the Pope's visit to that country. Journalist Aengus Collins says there are about 60 Irish people who have moved permanently to Turkey, with most settling in Istanbul. About the same number are living in Turkey for the short term, with most of those teaching English. About 1,500 are registered as having bought holiday homes.
The report notes that many of the Irish who came originally intended staying only a short time, while others came because they had a Turkish spouse or parent. It also says that the Irish community is well-integrated into Turkish life, and socialising tends to be with Turkish friends rather than other Irish expats; at Eamonn Lehane's Irish bar, none of the clientele are Irish. The low costs of living and accommodation are reported to be attractions for many of the Irish.
Most of the Irish interviewed for the article report no religious tension in the Muslim nation, with one woman saying that "For anyone that I know here, it just doesn't affect their daily life."
The full article is available on Ireland.com (subscription required).
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