Group trips to Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan operates on Turkmenistan Time (TMT), which is 5 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+5). Turkmenistan does not observe daylight saving time. So, if it is 12 pm in the UK, it will be 5 pm in Turkmenistan. If it is 12 pm in New York, USA, it will be 10 pm in Turkmenistan. Keep in mind to adjust your plans according to this time difference when traveling.

Turkmenistan uses the Turkmenistan manat (TMT) as its currency. The daily exchange rate can fluctuate, so it's a good idea to check before you travel. As of the latest updates:

• 1 GBP equals approximately 4.7 TMT
• 1 USD equals about 3.5 TMT
• 1 EUR is around 4 TMT

You can exchange currency at banks and official exchange offices in major cities.

Credit cards are not widely accepted in Turkmenistan, so it's a good idea to carry cash. You can use US dollars or the local currency, the Turkmen manat, for most transactions. ATMs are rare, especially outside major cities, so plan accordingly. We suggest you exchange money at banks or official exchange offices. Remember to keep some small denominations for taxis and smaller shops, as they might not have change for larger bills.

Tipping in Turkmenistan isn't a common practice, but it's becoming more accepted in tourist areas. If you receive exceptional service, you might consider leaving a small tip to show appreciation.

• In restaurants: Consider rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10 percent.
• For taxi drivers: You can round up the fare to the nearest whole number.
• Hotel staff: Might appreciate a small tip for good service, but it's not expected.

Always tip in the local currency, Turkmenistani manat, as foreign currency might not be accepted.

In Turkmenistan, internet access can be quite limited and slow compared to other countries. We suggest you buy a local SIM card for more reliable connectivity. Popular providers include TM-Cell and Altyn Asyr. You can find SIM cards at the airport or in major cities. Wi-Fi is available in some hotels and cafes, but it's not widespread, and connections can be unreliable. If you need consistent internet access, having a local SIM or an e-SIM data plan is a good choice.

In Turkmenistan, the official language is Turkmen. It's always helpful to know a few local expressions to enrich your travel experience. Here are some common phrases you might hear or use:

• Hello: Salam
• Thank you: Sag bol
• How much?: Nähili?
• Yes: Hawa
• No: Ýok

Turkmen is a Turkic language, and while Russian is also widely understood, especially in urban areas, knowing a few Turkmen phrases can be quite handy.

In Turkmenistan, you will find type C and F plugs, which are the standard European plugs with two round pins. The voltage is 220V and the frequency is 50Hz. If your devices are not compatible with these plugs, we suggest bringing a universal adapter to keep your gadgets powered up. Always check your device's voltage compatibility to avoid any mishaps.

The main religion in Turkmenistan is Islam, with the majority being Sunni Muslims. When visiting, especially in rural areas, it's respectful to dress modestly. For women, this means covering shoulders and knees, and wearing a headscarf in mosques. Important religious holidays include:

• Ramadan, a month of fasting
• Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan

Keep these in mind as they can affect business hours and public transport availability.

Packing for Turkmenistan requires a bit of planning due to its climate and cultural norms. Here's a guide for what to put in your backpack:

• Clothing:
  • Lightweight and breathable tops
  • Long trousers or skirts (for cultural sites)
  • Light sweater or jacket (for cooler evenings)
  • Modest swimwear (if visiting the coast)
• Shoes:
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sandals
  • Dress shoes (if planning to dine in upscale places)
• Accessories and Technology:
  • Sunglasses and a hat
  • Universal power adapter
  • Portable charger
  • Camera or smartphone
• Toiletries and Medication:
  • Sunscreen and lip balm
  • Basic toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo)
  • Travel first-aid kit
  • Common travel medication (pain relievers, anti-diarrheal)

This selection should cover your needs while respecting local customs and climate conditions.

The weather in Turkmenistan can vary a lot depending on where you are. Here's a quick rundown:

• Desert Areas: Extremely hot in summer, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). Winters are mild but can get chilly at night.
• Mountainous Areas: Cooler temperatures year-round, with cold winters and some snow.
• Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to November, when temperatures are more moderate.

Be prepared for hot summers and cooler winters, especially if you're planning to explore different regions.