Turkmenistan: Exploring the Bizarre and Mysterious Ashgabat

🏛️Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, is known for its stunning white marble buildings and meticulous city planning.

🌎Turkmenistan is one of the least visited countries in the world, with less than ten thousand visitors per year.

🤔Turkmenistan's former dictator, Saparmurat Niyazov, implemented bizarre laws and regulations, including renaming months after his family members and banning opera and circuses.

🌇Despite its grandiose appearance, Ashgabat can feel empty and staged, with few people on the streets during the day.

👥Less than one percent of Turkmenistan's population has internet access, and the majority of workers are employed by the government.

Why is Turkmenistan so difficult to visit?

—Turkmenistan requires all tourists to be on organized trips and obtaining a visa can be expensive and challenging.

What is the significance of the white marble buildings in Ashgabat?

—The white marble buildings in Ashgabat symbolize the country's wealth from natural gas reserves and create a visually impressive capital city.

What was the role of Turkmenistan's former dictator, Saparmurat Niyazov?

—Saparmurat Niyazov ruled Turkmenistan with an iron fist, implementing eccentric laws and regulations while being known for his cult of personality.

Why does Ashgabat feel empty and staged?

—Despite its grand appearance, Ashgabat has a low population density, and many buildings are empty. The government's focus on maintaining appearances may contribute to the staged feel.

What is the living situation like in Turkmenistan?

—Turkmenistan has a relatively simple lifestyle, with limited internet access and the majority of workers employed by the government.

00:00Turkmenistan, a mysterious and rarely visited country, captivates with its uniqueness.

01:05Discover Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, known for its grandiose white marble buildings and meticulous city planning.

03:32Learn about Turkmenistan's former dictator, Saparmurat Niyazov, and his eccentric laws and regulations.

04:35Explore the paradox of Ashgabat's empty streets, despite its visually impressive appearance.

05:08Get insights into the simple lifestyle of Turkmenistan's population, with limited internet access and government employment.

08:19Uncover the mysteries of Turkmenistan's unique culture and its fascinating blend of tradition and modernity.

11:10Experience the warmth and curiosity of the Turkmen people, who are open to engaging with visitors.

14:33Reflect on the overall impression of Turkmenistan's bizarre and enigmatic capital city.