Stories
Club spotlights, event recaps, and tips for making the most of Smileys.
Looking for how the city works? The Istanbul Handbook →
Yeldeğirmeni: Istanbul’s Brooklyn?
Yeldeğirmeni has always had a character of its own. Creative, lively and full of independent cafés, street art and local energy, this Kadıköy neighborhood has recently gained a new title: Istanbul’s Brooklyn, after being selected by Brooklyn Of as the city’s standout neighborhood.
Nate G.31 August 20263 min read
Smileys Is Coming to İzmir! 🌊
A new city means new people, new friendships, and plenty of new adventures. From seaside hangouts and sports to food, music, and spontaneous plans — Smileys is bringing the community spirit to the Aegean.
Nate G.30 August 2026
Smileys Is Not a Dating App ✋
Smileys was created to help people connect in real life — to make friends, discover activities, find travel companions, expand their networks, and become part of a community. It is not a dating service, and we have a zero-tolerance policy toward members who use Smileys to pursue dates or romantic or sexual partners.
Nate G.20 August 2026
Givers & Takers: The Smileys Way. 🫵
A community is only as good as the people who make it. Some people show up to contribute, connect, and help others. Others simply take what they can. At Smileys, we believe being part of a community means giving something back.
Nate G.17 August 2026
Smileys is Coming to Bodrum! ⛵️
After building our community in Istanbul, we’re expanding to one of Türkiye’s most social, international and beautiful destinations. Bodrum is the perfect place for meeting people, discovering new experiences and making real-life connections. ☀️
Nate G.17 August 2026
Smileys: The Social Infrastructure for Modern Life 👍
Smileys is a real-life social community for people who want to meet others, discover new experiences, and feel connected wherever they are — whether they’re traveling, living abroad, working remotely, or simply looking to expand their social circle.
Nate G.14 August 2026
Why Most Communities Stay Local, And Why We Didn’t ✨
Why build an international community when staying local is easier? Because the best connections often happen outside our familiar circles. This is the story of why we chose diversity, curiosity, and carefully curated experiences and why the right mix of locals and internationals makes a community truly come alive.
Nate G.7 August 2026
Smileys Cup 2026: How it finished 🏆
Spain lifted the trophy and Semih A. took the Smileys crown. The final podium, the top-ten predictors, and a thank-you to everyone who played.
Nate G.25 July 2026