Meet Dirk Vermeiren, a transplant from Belgium and one of the hosts of the popular radio program SOUL SENDIKASI – in Turkish, no less!
Why did you come to Istanbul?
The main reason was that I took an interest in my Turkish neighbours in Antwerp, Belgium. More and more of them came to live in my street, and I thought they were really nice, friendly people. Most of the children spoke Dutch, but not all of the adults, which made me decide to study Turkish. But in the end I ended up being a migrant myself, going to Istanbul to study Turkish, planning to stay for two months, but never left
What do you do here?
Correspondent for Belgium and Dutch media, for UEFA.com.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced here?
In theory the language, but since this was the reason for me to come over here, that was a positive challenge. Apart from I’ll never get used to the political culture in this country, counterproductive to the extent that it can become suicidal. Not just for the past 10 years, mind you. After a decade in Turkey I can see its potential, but also its limits.
What do you do for fun?
Sports (gym, weekly game of football with my buddies in Feriköy), and there’s SOUL SENDIKASI, a weekly radioshow on Açik Radyo (plus broadcasts in Eskisehir and Ankara), playing vintage old skool soul, r&b, funk, gospel. Me and my friend Ansel Mullins (USA) are proud to host the show in Turkish. I also like DJing at the Istanbul Soul Nights, a monthly party in Babylon (Lounge). Next one coming up Feb. 21st, and March 21st.
Where do unwind/relax? Where is your favorite haunt?
Midweek trips to the Adalar, which I avoid during the weekends. Walks next to the Bosporus, past the second bridge. It is getting increasingly difficult though to find some peace and quiet in this city.
What has been your biggest surprise about Istanbul?
The fact stray cats and stray dogs can live in peace and harmony in Istanbul.
Do you have any advice for other expats?
Learn the language, it is worth it. Don’t be lazy about this. If you intend to stay for a long time I even think this is a sign of respect.
Ask an Expat is our new column aimed at shedding some light on how other expats do Istanbul. Enjoy!
