Social life in Turkey is influenced by climate, geography, traditions, and religion. In coastal cities, the temperate climate allows for an more open social life where people spend more time outside interacting in cafes and restaurants. Meanwhile, in mountainous inland areas the severe climate leads to a more closed social life focused on the close-knit family. The Turkish republic modernized social norms through Ataturk's reforms in the early 20th century, promoting secularism and equal rights. Today among youth aged 18-40 in large cities, social life revolves around independent but close-knit families, open relationships, and meeting at restaurants, cafes, sports, and cultural events.