turkmenistan
There are no restrictions on where foreigners can stay in
Turkmenistan. When Turkmenistan gained independence, there was
an acute shortage of hotel accommodation, a situation which the
Turkmen are working hard to rectify, with feverish hotel
construction underway in Ashgabat. A row of luxury hotels has
recently been built on the edge of town along a road known
locally as the 'Miracle Mile'. These are small hotels with
between 15 to 40 rooms that are owned and run by various
ministries and governmental organisations. Architectural motifs
are mosques, palaces and fortresses. Every provincial centre has
at least one hotel, but visitors should not expect Western
standards of comfort and amenities. The exception is a new hotel
which recently opened in Turkmenbashi; however, as it only has
40 rooms, it is advisable to contact a recognised Turkmen tour
company for a reservation. Accommodation and services in hotels
are payable in local currency or US Dollars.
Bed and
breakfast:
Dom Otdykha (literally
'rest houses') were built on the shores of the Caspian Sea by
co-operatives and other concerns for fatigued workers. It is
sometimes possible for travellers to obtain accommodation in
them.
Camping:
There are campsites on the shores of
the Caspian Sea, and the facilities are gradually improving.
