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Our Story

More Than a Guide. Your Local Friends in Türkiye.

Demir

Demir "Demir Abi"

The Gentleman

The eldest and the anchor of our family. After graduating from the University of St. Gallen with a Master's in Strategy and International Management, Demir fell in love with his Swiss wife, Laura, during a summer holiday. Now a devoted family man with two sons, Demir is the wise listener. He's the kind of guy whose single sentence of advice can change your whole perspective.

Mehmet

Mehmet "Memo"

The Local Legend

The middle cousin. Mehmet moved to Poland to manage the family's logistics firm while studying Finance and Accounting at Kozminski University. He traveled across Europe, mastered five languages, and absorbed different cultures. Eventually, he sold the business to return to the Turkish coasts and live life on his own terms. Always polite, but with an unmistakable Mediterranean "macho" confidence, he is the energetic bridge between European standards and Turkish street smarts.

Leyla

Leyla

The Explorer

The youngest, affectionately known as our "rebel girl." Leyla graduated from the prestigious Cambridge University (HSPS). But instead of stepping into the predictable world of politics and bureaucracy, she packed her bags and returned to Türkiye to explore, live freely, and uncover the untouched corners of the country.

Every year, millions of travelers visit Türkiye. They see the historical monuments, swim in the turquoise waters, and stay in beautiful hotels. But very few truly experience the country. To unlock the real magic of Türkiye, you don't need a travel brochure — you need a local friend. A friend who knows the hidden streets, the best local artisans, the genuine spots avoiding tourist traps, and the true meaning of Turkish hospitality.

That's exactly why TurkishFriend was born.

We are not a corporation; we are a family. Specifically, three cousins who grew up like siblings, spending our childhoods chasing the sun across the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts. Though we come from a privileged background, our elders always challenged us to understand the realities of life, keeping us grounded and connected to the streets.

After pursuing our educations and careers across Europe, we all found our way back home.

How It All Started

It started with a simple conversation over dinner.

Mehmet"Every summer my European friends ask me the same questions. They get stuck in the same tourist traps. Let's build a platform where people could experience the real warmth and protection of Turkish locals."

Demir"True — not everyone has got a real Turkish friend to show them the way. I'm in. But only if Leyla approves."

Leyla"Then maybe we should become that friend for everyone."

That was the moment TurkishFriend was truly born. We built this platform because we are fiercely protective of our country's reputation, just as we are of each other. We want to show the world how welcoming, resourceful, and genuinely helpful Turkish people are.

Whether you need a quiet sunset spot, an elite dining experience, or a spontaneous adventure, just ask.

Welcome to Türkiye.

Meet Leyla, Mehmet & Demir →