Digital Nomad Life in Turkmenistan
Summary: Turkmenistan is not a popular destination for digital nomads. The most popular cities for digital nomads in Turkmenistan are Ashgabat, Mary, and Turkmenabat. Digital nomads like living in Turkmenistan because of its low cost of living, its friendly people, and its unique culture. A digital nomad can live on a monthly budget of around $1,000 in Turkmenistan. This budget should cover accommodation, food, transportation, and other basic necessities. The culture of Turkmenistan is a mix of traditional Turkmen and Islamic culture. The country is known for its hospitality and its colorful traditional clothing. Turkmenistan is also known for its traditional music, dance, and cuisine.
How do I meet people in Turkmenistan?
When we asked people living in Turkmenistan about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Turkmenistan often join local sports clubs, such as football, basketball, and tennis, as well as cultural clubs, such as language clubs and book clubs. Expats may also join international organizations, such as the American Women's Club of Turkmenistan, which provides a platform for expats to meet and socialize. Additionally, expats may attend events hosted by the embassies of their home countries, such as movie nights, lectures, and holiday celebrations. Expats may also meet people through their work, by attending local events, or by joining online expat communities," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Turkmenistan.
What is life like in Turkmenistan?
When we asked people living in Turkmenistan what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Living as an expat or digital nomad in Turkmenistan can be a unique and rewarding experience. The country is known for its friendly people, stunning landscapes, and rich culture. Expats and digital nomads can find a variety of activities to enjoy, from exploring the ancient ruins of Merv to visiting the bustling markets of Ashgabat. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. The country is also well-connected, with reliable internet access and a growing number of coworking spaces. Despite the challenges of living in a country with a restrictive government, expats and digital nomads can find a welcoming and vibrant community in Turkmenistan," explained one expat living in Turkmenistan.
Where should I live in Turkmenistan?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"Finding a place to live in Turkmenistan can be a challenge, as the country is not as developed as other countries in the region. However, there are a few options available. One option is to look for rental properties in the capital city of Ashgabat. There are a variety of apartments and houses available for rent in the city, and many of them are located in the city center. Additionally, there are a few real estate agencies in the city that can help you find a suitable property. Another option is to look for rental properties in other cities in Turkmenistan. There are a variety of apartments and houses available for rent in other cities, such as Mary, Dashoguz, and Turkmenabat. Finally, you can also look for rental properties in rural areas of Turkmenistan. There are a variety of houses and apartments available for rent in rural areas, and they can be a great option for those looking for a more peaceful and secluded living experience," said one expat in Turkmenistan.
What do I need to know before moving to Turkmenistan?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Turkmenistan, they said:
"Before retiring in Turkmenistan, expats should be aware of the country's strict visa and residency requirements. Expats should also be aware of the country's limited healthcare system and the need to purchase private health insurance. Additionally, expats should be aware of the country's limited banking and financial services, and the need to open a local bank account. Furthermore, expats should be aware of the country's limited public transportation system and the need to arrange private transportation. Finally, expats should be aware of the country's limited access to international goods and services, and the need to purchase locally," explained one expat living in Turkmenistan.
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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Turkmenistan?
"Expats in Turkmenistan appreciate the hospitality of the local people, who are known for their warm and welcoming nature. They also enjoy the country's rich cultural heritage, which includes traditional music, dance, and art. Additionally, expats appreciate the country's stunning natural beauty, with its vast deserts, mountains, and rivers. Finally, expats enjoy the unique cuisine of Turkmenistan, which is a mix of Central Asian, Middle Eastern, and Russian influences," said one expat in Turkmenistan.
What do people find most challenging about the culture in Turkmenistan?
"One of the most challenging aspects of the local culture for expats in Turkmenistan is the lack of freedom of expression. The government has strict control over the media and public discourse, and any criticism of the government is not tolerated. Additionally, the country is largely closed off to the outside world, making it difficult for expats to access information and resources from abroad. Furthermore, the local culture is very conservative, and expats may find it difficult to adjust to the strict social norms and expectations. Finally, the language barrier can be a challenge for expats, as Turkmen is the official language and English is not widely spoken," said one expat in Turkmenistan.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Turkmenistan for a while?
"If you plan to stay in Turkmenistan for a while, you will need to obtain a valid visa. Depending on the length of your stay, you may need to apply for a long-term residency permit. You will also need to provide proof of your identity, such as a passport, and other documents, such as proof of employment or a letter of invitation from a local resident. Additionally, you may need to provide proof of health insurance and a valid return ticket," said one person in Turkmenistan.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Turkmenistan?
We asked people in Turkmenistan if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"In Turkmenistan, it is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. It is considered impolite to show public displays of affection, such as kissing or hugging, as this is not part of the local culture. It is also important to dress modestly, as revealing clothing is considered inappropriate. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local religious customs and to avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics or religion. Finally, it is important to be respectful of the local language and to avoid speaking English or any other foreign language in public," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Turkmenistan.
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What are healthcare services like in Turkmenistan?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Turkmenistan, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Turkmenistan are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is largely funded by the government and is free for citizens of Turkmenistan. The quality of public healthcare is generally considered to be below average, with limited access to modern medical equipment and medicines. Foreign residents do not have access to the public healthcare system, and must rely on private healthcare services. Expats in Turkmenistan typically use private healthcare services, which are more expensive than public healthcare, but offer better quality care," said one foreigner in Turkmenistan.
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What are the pros and cons of living in Turkmenistan?
"Expats and digital nomads living in Turkmenistan appreciate the country's rich culture and history, as well as its stunning natural beauty. They also enjoy the friendly and welcoming people, who are always willing to help out newcomers. On the other hand, expats and digital nomads may find the lack of modern infrastructure and the limited access to the internet and other services to be a challenge. Additionally, the country's strict visa regulations and the difficulty of obtaining a work permit can be a deterrent for some," said one foreigner in Turkmenistan.
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About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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Digital Nomads in Turkmenistan offer advice about healthcare, hospital visits, emergency rooms visits, finding a doctor and buying health insurance in Turkmenistan.
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