Best Places to Visit in Turkmenistan for Christmas Cheer

As the holiday season approaches, expats and digital nomads in Turkmenistan may be looking for festive places to soak up the Christmas spirit. While Turkmenistan is predominantly a Muslim country and Christmas is not widely celebrated in the traditional Western sense, there are still pockets of holiday cheer to be found, especially in the capital city and areas with international communities. Here are some destinations where you can find a touch of yuletide joy and local winter festivities.

Ashgabat

Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, offers a unique holiday experience with its grandiose architecture and occasional festive decorations in shopping centers and hotels that cater to an international clientele. While you won't find traditional Christmas markets here, the city's New Year celebrations can provide a semblance of holiday spirit. Luxury hotels often host gala dinners and parties with festive decorations around this time of the year. The Yyldyz Hotel, for example, is known for its New Year's Eve celebrations that sometimes include a festive feast and entertainment.

We Recommend: Don't miss the opportunity to try local winter delicacies at hotel events, such as the Turkmen version of plov, a hearty rice dish perfect for the chilly December weather.

Berlin's Gendarmenmarkt

For those willing to travel outside of Turkmenistan to find a traditional Christmas experience, Berlin's Gendarmenmarkt is a must-visit. This historic square transforms into a magical Christmas market, complete with artisan stalls, warm lights, and the aroma of mulled wine and roasted almonds. The WeihnachtsZauber at the Gendarmenmarkt is particularly famous for its handcrafted goods and gourmet food offerings. The market typically runs from late November until just after Christmas.

We Recommend: Be sure to savor a glass of Glühwein, Germany's beloved mulled wine, and try a Schmalzkuchen, a type of German fried dough pastry that's a favorite at the market.

Vienna's Rathausplatz

Vienna, Austria, is another fantastic destination for Christmas enthusiasts. The city's Rathausplatz becomes the site of the Vienna Christmas World, a market that boasts an enormous ice-skating rink, festive booths, and a classic Christmas tree. The market is known for its beautiful decorations and the traditional Christmas atmosphere it offers. Visitors can enjoy this winter wonderland from mid-November to December 26th.

We Recommend: Don't leave without trying the Wiener Schnitzel and the famous Austrian Sachertorte, a decadent chocolate cake that's a culinary highlight of the market.

Strasbourg's Grande Île

Strasbourg in France is home to one of Europe's oldest Christmas markets, located on the Grande Île. The Strasbourg Christkindelsmärik dates back to 1570 and is renowned for its festive ambiance. The entire city center is adorned with decorations, making it feel like a true Christmas village. The market usually starts at the end of November and lasts until Christmas Eve.

We Recommend: Try the local Alsatian specialty, tarte flambée, and the vin chaud (mulled wine), which are both popular treats at the market.

Prague's Old Town Square

Prague's Old Town Square is another destination that comes alive during the holiday season. The Prague Christmas markets are a key attraction, with the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square being the main hubs of activity. The markets typically start in early December and continue until the first week of January, offering a mix of handmade gifts, seasonal decorations, and Czech Christmas treats.

We Recommend: Indulge in Trdelník, a traditional Czech pastry, and sip on medovina, a honey wine that's especially warming on cold December nights.

London's Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

London's Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is a festive extravaganza that includes a Christmas market, ice skating, shows, and an array of food and drink stalls. It's a perfect place for expats and digital nomads to feel the holiday spirit with its vibrant atmosphere. The event usually starts in mid-November and runs until the beginning of January.

We Recommend: Enjoy a ride on the Giant Observation Wheel for a stunning view of the city's Christmas lights, and don't miss the traditional mince pies and mulled cider.

New York City's Bryant Park Winter Village

For a taste of Christmas in the Big Apple, Bryant Park Winter Village in New York City is a delightful destination. This open-air market features artisan boutiques, an ice-skating rink, and a variety of food kiosks. The Winter Village is typically open from late October through the holiday season, offering a cozy retreat in the heart of Manhattan.

We Recommend: Try the hot chocolate from one of the local vendors, renowned for being some of the best in the city, and pair it with a freshly baked cookie for a sweet treat.

While Turkmenistan itself may not have a plethora of Christmas markets and events, the global community of expats and digital nomads can find holiday cheer in nearby European cities or by attending local New Year's celebrations. Whether you're craving traditional festivities or looking to enjoy winter delights, these destinations offer a variety of experiences to get into the holiday spirit.