Living in Turkmenistan

"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," said one expat in Turkmenistan.

"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," commented one expat who made the move to Turkmenistan.

"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.

"Crime is not a major problem in Turkmenistan. The country has a low crime rate and is generally considered to be a safe place to live and visit. The government has taken steps to ensure the safety of its citizens, including increasing police presence in public areas and introducing tougher laws for certain crimes," said one expat who made the move to Turkmenistan.

"Turkmenistan is a culturally diverse country, with a population that is made up of many different ethnic and religious groups. People in Turkmenistan are generally accepting of differences, and the country has a long history of peaceful coexistence between its various ethnic and religious communities. The government of Turkmenistan has also taken steps to promote tolerance and acceptance of diversity, such as introducing laws that protect the rights of minority groups," said one expat who made the move to Turkmenistan.

"The International School of Ashgabat (ISAT) is one of the best international schools in Turkmenistan. It is a private, non-profit, co-educational school offering an international curriculum for students from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12. The school is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). ISAT offers a rigorous academic program that prepares students for success in college and beyond. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, art, and drama. The American International School of Ashgabat (AISA) is another excellent international school in Turkmenistan. AISA is a private, non-profit, co-educational school offering an American-style curriculum for students from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12. The school is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSA) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). AISA offers a comprehensive academic program that prepares students for success in college and beyond. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, art, and drama. The International Bilingual School of Ashgabat (IBSA) is a great bilingual school in Turkmenistan. IBSA is a private, non-profit, co-educational school offering an international curriculum for students from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12. The school is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). IBSA offers a rigorous academic program that prepares students for success in college and beyond. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, art, and drama," explained one expat living in Turkmenistan.

"The cost of living in Turkmenistan is generally considered to be relatively low compared to other countries. Basic necessities such as food, clothing, and transportation are generally affordable, and the cost of housing is also relatively low. However, the cost of imported goods and services can be quite expensive, and the cost of utilities can also be high," said one expat who made the move to Turkmenistan.

"The cost of living in Turkmenistan is generally considered to be quite low compared to other countries. However, the cost of living in the capital city of Ashgabat is significantly higher than in the rest of the country. Rent for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Ashgabat can range from $400 to $600 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can range from $600 to $800 per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Ashgabat can cost around $10 per person," said an expat in Turkmenistan.

"In Turkmenistan, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as parks, beaches, and sports complexes. Parks are a popular destination for locals, offering a variety of activities such as walking, jogging, and picnicking. Beaches are also a popular destination, with many offering swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities. Sports complexes are also available, offering a variety of activities such as basketball, tennis, and volleyball. Additionally, there are a number of cultural and historical sites that offer a variety of activities, such as museums, monuments, and other attractions," said an expat in Turkmenistan.

"The climate in Turkmenistan is generally dry and continental, with hot summers and cold winters. The average temperature in the summer months is around 30°C, while in the winter months it can drop to -10°C. The country experiences very little rainfall, with most of it occurring in the winter months," said an expat in Turkmenistan.

"One of the most popular restaurants in Turkmenistan is the Kebab House, located in Ashgabat. This restaurant serves traditional Turkmen cuisine, including kebabs, shashlik, and other grilled meats. The restaurant also offers a variety of salads, soups, and desserts. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive. Another popular restaurant in Turkmenistan is the Bazaar Restaurant, located in Ashgabat. This restaurant specializes in traditional Turkmen dishes, such as plov, manty, and shurpa. The restaurant also offers a variety of salads, soups, and desserts. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive. Finally, the Chayhana Restaurant in Ashgabat is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. This restaurant serves traditional Turkmen dishes, such as shashlik, manty, and plov. The restaurant also offers a variety of salads, soups, and desserts. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive," commented one expat living in Turkmenistan.

"People living in Turkmenistan typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local markets, supermarkets, and bazaars. Many people also shop at small, family-run stores and kiosks. Additionally, some people may purchase items from street vendors," said one expat living in Turkmenistan.

"In order to visit Turkmenistan, travelers must obtain a visa prior to arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, and a letter of invitation from a Turkmen host. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Turkmenistan, applicants must submit an application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, and a letter of invitation from a Turkmen host. Additionally, applicants must provide proof of employment, proof of financial means, and proof of health insurance. The application process may take several months to complete," mentioned an expat living in Turkmenistan.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Turkmenistan can be expensive, especially for those who are not covered by the government's social health insurance system. Private health insurance is available, but it can be costly and may not cover all medical expenses. Additionally, the cost of medical services in Turkmenistan is generally higher than in other countries, and the quality of care may not be as good. As a result, many people in Turkmenistan are unable to access the healthcare they need due to the high cost," commented one expat who moved to Turkmenistan.