The Marble Marvel of Central Asia

• HelloSalam
  [sah-lahm]
• GoodbyeHojalyk bolsun
  [hoh-jah-look bohl-soon]
• YesHawa
  [hah-wah]
• NoÝok
  [yohk]
• Please/You're welcomeRahmet
  [rah-met]
• Thank youSag bol
  [sahg bohl]
• Excuse me/SorryUzr
  [ooz-ur]
• How are you?Naýly durmysy?
  [nahy-ly doormy-sy]
• Fine. And you?Ýagşy. Siz?
  [yahg-shy. siz?]
• Do you speak English?Siz iňlisçe gepleýärsiňizmi?
  [siz een-lees-cheh gep-leh-yar-sin-iz-mi?]
• I don't understandMeniň janymy?
  [meh-neen jahn-y-mi?]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMenüni görüp biljekmi?
  [meh-noo-nee go-roop beel-jek-mi?]
• I don't eat meatMen et yýarmam
  [men et yuh-ar-mam]
• Cheers!Sakala
  [sah-kah-lah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseTöleg etmekçi boljakmy?
  [tuh-lehg eht-mek-chee bohl-jahk-mi?]

• Help!Ýardam edin!
  [yahrdahm eh-deen!]
• Go away!Uzaklaş!
  [oo-zahk-lahsh!]
• Call the Police!Polisi çağyr!
  [poh-lee-see chah-ghyr!]
• Call a doctor!Doktory çağyr!
  [dohk-toh-ree chah-ghyr!]
• I'm lostMen niriň
  [men nee-reen]
• I'm illMen çähildim
  [men chah-hil-deem]

• I'd like to buy...Satyn aljakmy...
  [saht-een ahl-jahk-mi...]
• I'm just lookingMen yzyna seretmek
  [men uz-ee-na seh-ret-mek]
• How much is it?Bu näçe boldy?
  [boo nah-cheh bohl-dy?]
• That's too expensiveOl gyssagyna köp
  [ohl gus-sah-guh-na kuhp]
• Can you lower the price?Bahasy ýokarltmaly?
  [bah-hah-sy yoh-karlt-mah-ly?]

• What time is it?Sagady näme?
  [sah-gah-dy nah-me?]
• It's one o'clockOnuň biri
  [oh-noon bee-ree]
• Half past (10)Onun ýarymy
  [oh-noon yah-ruh-muh]
• MorningErtir
  [ehr-teer]
• AfternoonGünortasy
  [goon-or-tah-suh]
• EveningÝagşy
  [yahg-shy]
• YesterdayDüýn
  [doo-een]
• TodayBugün
  [boo-goon]
• TomorrowErtir
  [ehr-teer]
• 1Bir
  [beer]
• 2Iki
  [ee-kee]
• 3Üç
  [ootch]
• 4Dört
  [dohrt]
• 5Bäş
  [bahsh]
• 6Alti
  [ahl-tee]
• 7Ýedi
  [yah-dee]
• 8Sekiz
  [seh-keez]
• 9Dokuz
  [doh-kooz]
• 10On
  [ohn]

• Where's a/the...?...nira?
  [nee-rah?]
• What's the address?Salgyt näme?
  [sahl-guht nah-me?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Meniň görmekçi boljakmy (karta üsti)?
  [meh-neen guhr-mehk-chee bohl-jahk-mi (kar-ta oos-tee)?]
• When's the next (bus)?(Awto) näme wagtda geçer?
  [(ow-toh) nah-me wahg-dah geh-jer?]
• A ticket (to ....)Bir bileti (....-a)
  [beer bee-leh-tee (....-ah)]

Ashgabat, the capital city of Turkmenistan, was officially founded in 1881. Originally a small village, it rapidly expanded with the construction of the Trans-Caspian Railway, which connected it to major trade routes and facilitated its growth into a bustling city.

From its founding until the early 20th century, Ashgabat was under the control of the Russian Empire. The city saw significant urban development during this period, including the establishment of European-style buildings, schools, and administrative centers.

On October 6, 1948, Ashgabat was struck by a devastating earthquake that measured 7.3 on the Richter scale. The disaster resulted in the near-total destruction of the city and the loss of an estimated 110,000 lives, approximately two-thirds of the population at that time.

Under Soviet rule, Ashgabat was rebuilt in a more modern style. The Soviet government invested heavily in infrastructure, including new residential areas, government buildings, and cultural institutions such as theaters and museums. The city also became a center for education and science.

Following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, Turkmenistan declared independence on October 27, 1991. Ashgabat, as the capital, underwent significant changes under President Saparmurat Niyazov, who initiated ambitious urban development projects. This included the construction of grandiose public buildings, monuments, and the extensive use of white marble in the city's architecture.

Ashgabat is not only the political capital of Turkmenistan but also a cultural hub. The city hosts numerous festivals, exhibitions, and cultural events that celebrate Turkmen heritage. Landmarks such as the Turkmen Carpet Museum, the National Museum of History, and the Independence Monument highlight the rich cultural tapestry of the region.

One of the most striking features of Ashgabat is its unique architecture. The city holds the Guinness World Record for the highest density of white marble buildings. Notable structures include the Neutrality Monument, the Alem Cultural and Entertainment Center, and the majestic Turkmenistan Tower, which offer glimpses into the country's modern aspirations and historical grandeur.

Today, Ashgabat stands as a symbol of Turkmenistan's rapid development and modernization efforts. The city continues to grow and attract visitors with its blend of historical sites and contemporary innovations, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in the evolving story of Turkmenistan.

Ashgabat is served by the Ashgabat International Airport (ASB), which is located about 10 kilometers northwest of the city center. Direct flights are available from several major cities in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Upon arrival, you can take a taxi or arrange for a hotel shuttle to reach your accommodation. There are also limited bus services, but taxis are generally the most convenient option.

In Ashgabat, taxis are the most commonly used form of transportation for tourists. They are relatively inexpensive and can be hailed on the street or booked through your hotel. There is also a well-developed bus network that covers most parts of the city. For those looking to explore at their own pace, car rentals are available, but be aware of local driving customs and road conditions. Biking is not common due to the city's layout and traffic.

The official currency in Turkmenistan is the Turkmenistan Manat (TMT). Major hotels, restaurants, and shops in Ashgabat accept credit cards, but smaller establishments and markets often require cash. ATMs are available throughout the city, though it is advisable to carry enough cash for smaller transactions. Currency exchange services are available at the airport, banks, and some hotels.

Ashgabat is generally considered a safe city for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 03 for medical emergencies and 02 for police assistance. The main hospitals in Ashgabat are equipped to handle medical emergencies, and many staff members speak English. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are widely available and well-stocked.

Fashion: Do dress modestly; women should avoid wearing revealing clothing. Men should avoid wearing shorts in public. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions; remove your shoes when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake; a slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Ashgabat like a local, visit the Tolkuchka Bazaar where you can buy local crafts and fresh produce. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the impressive Independence Monument and the National Museum of Turkmenistan. For a unique experience, take a walk in the evening to see the city’s buildings and monuments beautifully illuminated.