Common Sense Media Review
By Danny Brogan
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Two-part travel series has depictions of war and conflict.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Turkey with Simon Reeve
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
TURKEY WITH SIMON REEVE follows its presenter over the course of two episodes, as he travels the lengths of a country that sits between Europe and the Middle East. From property billionaires to nomads to refugees, Simon Reeve meets an array of different people and discovers a unique country full of contrasts, beauty, and controversy.
Is It Any Good?
This two-part travel series does a great job of providing a better understanding of a country whose global influence is growing at a rapid rate. Turkey with Simon Reeve covers so much ground -- both in terms of miles but also talking points -- spending enough time with each subject so as not to feel rushed, but nor does it ever feel like it drags. A large part of this is down to Reeve's presenting. Throughout the documentary, he meets various people of different backgrounds, socioeconomic status, and political views. Reeve is careful to ensure the show is not about him, providing a platform for everyone he meets to express their views, grievances, or hopes for the future.
That's not to say that Reeve doesn't express his own frustrations or shock at times. He seems genuinely annoyed by a newspaper calling the BBC an "English terror agency" and highlights Turkey's appalling conservation record. Yet he comes across without judgment, leaving the viewer to think for themselves about what they're seeing. It makes for a fascinating two-hour exploration of a unique country, which as Reeve says, "won't be dictated by the West or the East."
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about some of the subjects covered in Turkey with Simon Reeve. What did you learn from the documentary? How familiar are you with the country and its people? Is it somewhere you'd like to visit? Why, or why not?
The presenter meets an array of different people, showing curiosity and good communication skills along the way? Why are those important character strengths to have? Can you think of any times in your own life when you've demonstrated these traits?
The series discusses war and its aftermath. What did you understand from the conflicts discussed? How to talk to kids about violence, crime, and war.
How did this series compare to other travel documentaries you might have seen? What makes a good documentary?
TV Details
- Premiere date : March 26, 2017
- Cast : Simon Reeve
- Network : Discovery+
- Genre : Reality TV
- Topics : Adventures
- Character Strengths : Communication , Curiosity
- TV rating :
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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