ABOUT
Nathalie is originally from Cumbria in the UK, famously known for the Lake District—a region of breathtaking natural beauty that she will always cherish. She moved overseas at 18 to begin her career in tourism, and it quickly became her lifelong passion.
Tell us about yourself
Over the years, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to live and work in some of the world’s most stunning destinations, including resorts across Europe, Tunisia, Egypt, Africa, and Turkiye. The rhythm of moving to a new country each year fuelled my love for travel and adventure. However, in 2020, I found myself drawn back to Türkiye, a place that resonated with me on a deeper level. Since then, it’s become my home, offering me a balance of beauty, culture, and a welcoming community that I had been seeking.
I speak English fluently and have conversational proficiency in both Spanish and Turkish. Living in Türkiye has provided a wonderful opportunity to immerse myself in the language, and I’m continually improving.
I speak English fluently and have conversational proficiency in both Spanish and Turkish. Living in Türkiye has provided a wonderful opportunity to immerse myself in the language, and I’m continually improving.
What do you do?
Tourism was my main career for many years, but in 2022, I felt a calling for something different. I travelled to India to deepen my yoga practice and earned my 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training certification, which has since expanded to 500 hours (RYT-500). Yoga has become an integral part of my life, offering me peace, balance, and a way to give back to others.
To complement this, I started an online business focused on health and wellness. It gives me the flexibility to work on my own terms, spend more time with family, and help others achieve similar freedom. Through this venture, I not only share transformative products but also mentor others in starting their own businesses.
To complement this, I started an online business focused on health and wellness. It gives me the flexibility to work on my own terms, spend more time with family, and help others achieve similar freedom. Through this venture, I not only share transformative products but also mentor others in starting their own businesses.
Moving to Antalya
When and why did you move to Antalya?
I first came to Antalya in 2016/2017 for seasonal work and was immediately captivated by its vibrant culture and Mediterranean charm. After returning for a few more seasons, I decided to move here permanently in 2020, right at the start of the pandemic. Despite the uncertainty of that time, it felt like the perfect place to settle down and create a life I love.
How did you get set up?
Initially, my company handled most of the logistics, such as setting up my phone plan and banking. However, when I started managing these things on my own, I leaned on friends for guidance. With a valid residence permit, the process for expats is straightforward. Setting up a phone plan with providers like Turkcell or Vodafone and opening a bank account at Garanti BBVA or İşbank are common choices.
Was it difficult for you to get medical insurance?
Not at all. There are plenty of options for expats, ranging from private medical insurance to policies that meet the requirements for residency permits. If you’re unsure about navigating the paperwork, there are services that specialize in helping expats get everything sorted smoothly.
What did you bring with you?
I packed light—just two suitcases of clothes—because I knew I could build the rest of my life here more affordably. Türkiye offers a wide variety of quality, reasonably priced goods, so starting fresh was easier than expected.
What apps, websites, or stores do you find useful in your daily life in Antalya?
-Sahibinden App: For everything from renting apartments to buying second-hand items.
-Trendyol App: A Turkish version of Amazon.
-Yemek Sepeti App: For food delivery.
-Migros App: Grocery delivery from one of the most trusted supermarket chains.
-Antalya Kart App: Essential for using local buses.
For groceries, Metro, Migros, and Macrocenter are great for finding familiar products from home. Budget-friendly alternatives like BIM and A101 offer the basics at lower prices.
-Trendyol App: A Turkish version of Amazon.
-Yemek Sepeti App: For food delivery.
-Migros App: Grocery delivery from one of the most trusted supermarket chains.
-Antalya Kart App: Essential for using local buses.
For groceries, Metro, Migros, and Macrocenter are great for finding familiar products from home. Budget-friendly alternatives like BIM and A101 offer the basics at lower prices.
What should people consider before deciding to move to Antalya?
Inflation has been significant in recent years, and living costs are not as low as they used to be. It’s also essential to think about how you’ll support yourself. Work permits are generally arranged by employers in tourism or require multilingual skills, but there are also options like Digital Nomad visas and tourist residencies.
Living in Antalya
How did you find an apartment?
I used the popular app Sahibinden, which is like a one-stop shop for buying, selling, or renting anything in Türkiye. With the help of a real estate agent (Emlak), I found my current home—a lovely 2+1 condominium with a pool for €650/month. For those seeking smaller spaces, 1+1 apartments can start from around €500/month.
What surprised you about life here?
The warmth and friendliness of the Turkish people truly surprised me. After living in so many countries, it can be hard to find a place that feels like home, but Turkiye has given me that sense of belonging. The local community has been incredibly welcoming, and I’ve built strong relationships that make life here fulfilling.
What are your favourite places in Antalya?
Green Lake: I live in a town just outside the city called Side, and about 20 minutes from me is the stunning Green Lake. It’s a quiet and peaceful escape where I love to spend my free time. I often paddleboard there, and the local restaurant staff are incredibly kind—they look after my belongings while I’m out on the water. It’s the perfect combination of nature, serenity, and hospitality.
Kaleiçi (Old Town): Antalya’s Old Town is brimming with character. The winding streets, historic architecture, and charming shops make it a must-visit. There are also fantastic restaurants, but one of my favourites is outside Kaleiçi near Düden Waterfall—Sirali Kebap—which offers an amazing culinary experience.
Konyaaltı Beach: While not my absolute favourite, Konyaaltı is a vibrant and cosmopolitan part of the city. It’s a hub for expats and offers a great mix of beachfront cafes and restaurants, plus a buzzing social scene.
Kaleiçi (Old Town): Antalya’s Old Town is brimming with character. The winding streets, historic architecture, and charming shops make it a must-visit. There are also fantastic restaurants, but one of my favourites is outside Kaleiçi near Düden Waterfall—Sirali Kebap—which offers an amazing culinary experience.
Konyaaltı Beach: While not my absolute favourite, Konyaaltı is a vibrant and cosmopolitan part of the city. It’s a hub for expats and offers a great mix of beachfront cafes and restaurants, plus a buzzing social scene.
What's on your list of favourite restaurants and cafés in Antalya?
7 Mehmet’s: An iconic restaurant known for its refined take on traditional Turkish cuisine.
Sirali Kebap: A gem near Düden Waterfall, offering some of the best kebabs and mezes in the area.
Karma (Side): A local favourite with great ambiance and food, perfect for relaxing evenings.
Shakespeare Café: Known for its friendly vibe and a great spot for a casual coffee or meal.
Understone Chocolate House: A must-visit for dessert lovers, offering indulgent chocolate creations and Dubai chocolate.
Sirali Kebap: A gem near Düden Waterfall, offering some of the best kebabs and mezes in the area.
Karma (Side): A local favourite with great ambiance and food, perfect for relaxing evenings.
Shakespeare Café: Known for its friendly vibe and a great spot for a casual coffee or meal.
Understone Chocolate House: A must-visit for dessert lovers, offering indulgent chocolate creations and Dubai chocolate.
How much money do you need to live comfortably in Antalya?
Living comfortably in Antalya really depends on your lifestyle and housing choices. Personally, I find €1,000 per month sufficient to cover my expenses, but this is based on a modest yet fulfilling lifestyle. For those who enjoy dining out frequently or engaging in various social activities, an additional €500 per month might be needed. Antalya’s cost of living has increased significantly in recent years due to inflation, but it still offers better value compared to many European cities.
Do you feel safe as a woman living in Antalya?
Absolutely—100%! I feel safer here than in any other country I’ve lived in. This is largely because I’ve managed to create a strong network of people who make me feel secure. The community here is welcoming, and people genuinely look out for each other. Antalya is a mix of modernity and tradition, and this balance contributes to its sense of safety.
What is the most recent thing you've read in the news about life in Antalya?
Most of the news I come across these days revolves around inflation and the rising cost of living. Turkey has experienced significant economic challenges recently, which has impacted daily life for many residents. However, the government and local communities are taking steps to address these issues.
What do you think about young Turkish people?
Young Turkish people are becoming increasingly Westernized. This is particularly evident in Antalya, which is an international and cosmopolitan city. You’ll notice modern fashion, progressive attitudes, and a tech-savvy approach among the youth. However, many still hold onto core values such as family and respect for tradition.
How are they similar or different from older generations?
The older generation tends to be more traditional, with strong adherence to cultural norms and values. For example, older Turks might prioritize family gatherings and hospitality over personal ambitions, whereas younger people are more career-focused and individualistic. This generational shift is common in cosmopolitan areas like Antalya, but rural parts of Turkey still maintain the older, more traditional way of life.
How do Turkish people compare to British people, in your opinion?
Turkish people are incredibly family-oriented. Unlike in the UK, where young adults often move out early, it’s common here for young people to stay in the family home until marriage or even return home if single. Turkish culture places a strong emphasis on gatherings, sharing meals, and maintaining close relationships. While British people are friendly, there’s a noticeable difference in the way community and family ties are prioritized in Turkey.
Final Thoughts
How does Antalya compare to other Turkish cities?
Antalya stands out as a tourist hub, making it more international and cosmopolitan than many other Turkish cities. Its mix of coastal beauty, rich history, and modern amenities makes it unique. Cities like Istanbul are more fast-paced and urban, while places like Cappadocia or Izmir offer a quieter or more culturally rich vibe. Along the coast, cities like Bodrum or Fethiye have similar international appeal but on a smaller scale compared to Antalya.
Can you tell us something else about Antalya that we might not know?
Antalya is not just a beach destination—it offers a diverse landscape that includes mountains, freshwater lakes, and ancient ruins. One fascinating fact is that you can go skiing in the nearby Taurus Mountains in winter and enjoy a beach day on the same day during certain months! It’s also home to the Lycian Way, one of the world’s most famous long-distance hiking trails, stretching from Antalya to Fethiye.
Are there any experiences there that you are particularly proud of or that surprised you ?
I’ve been amazed by the variety of adventure activities Antalya offers. From rafting and canyoning to paddleboarding and hiking, there’s always something new to try. I’m particularly proud of exploring the Lycian Way trail—it’s a breathtaking experience and gives you a deeper appreciation of Turkey’s natural beauty and ancient history.
What are some disadvantages to living in Antalya?
-Inflation and rising costs: This has been a significant concern in recent years.
-Bureaucracy: Navigating things like residency permits can be time-consuming.
-Tourism dependency: During the high season, the city gets incredibly busy, which can be overwhelming for residents.
-Bureaucracy: Navigating things like residency permits can be time-consuming.
-Tourism dependency: During the high season, the city gets incredibly busy, which can be overwhelming for residents.
Was it easy making friends and meeting people?
Yes, making friends in Antalya has been easier than in other places I’ve lived. My social circle is a mix of expats and Turkish locals, though I’ve found my Turkish friendships to be much stronger. People here are warm, welcoming, and always ready to help.
WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE FUTURE? ARE YOU WORKING ON ANYTHING PARTICULAR?
I’m planning to stay in Antalya long-term. Currently, I’m working on organizing yoga and art retreats in Japan in collaboration with a dear friend, Colin. These retreats will combine our passions—yoga, art, and wellness—into unique and transformative experiences. Alongside this, I’m focusing on expanding my online business, helping others achieve true health and flexibility in their lives.
