Does Everyone Speak English in Ashgabat?

As one of the least known countries on earth, Turkmenistan may not be one of the destinations people consider visiting, but the landlocked country in Central Asia has a lot to offer. The capital city, Ashgabat, is an oasis in the desert with its impressive marble buildings and plenty of cultural attractions. However, before visiting a foreign country, it is helpful to know the primary language spoken in the area.So, does everyone in Ashgabat speak English? Unfortunately, the answer is no. While English is taught as a compulsory second language in schools and is spoken by some, it is not the primary language spoken in Turkmenistan.

What Is the Primary Language Spoken in Ashgabat?

Turkmen is the official language of Turkmenistan, and it is the language spoken by most people in Ashgabat. It is also the most widely spoken Turkic language in Central Asia, and the country’s constitution recognizes it as the language of inter-ethnic communication. Russian is another popular language, and it is the de facto second language of the country. While the younger generation in Ashgabat tends to have a decent grasp of English as their second language, the older generation is less likely to speak it. Therefore, it’s important to learn some common phrases in Turkmen, such as “salam” for hello, “rahmat” for thank you, and “sag bolun” for goodbye, among others.

Why English Is Not the Primary Language in Ashgabat?

Turkmenistan was a part of the Soviet Union until the late 1990s, and consequently, Russian was the language of administration and education. After gaining independence, there was a push to rid the country of Russian influences, and the government decided to promote Turkmen as the official language. While English is still taught in schools, many students struggle with it because of the lack of English teachers and resources. Moreover, since there are fewer opportunities to practice speaking English in everyday life, mastery of the language remains elusive for many. It’s also worth noting that Turkmenistan is a relatively closed society compared to some other countries in the region, which means that there is less interaction with the outside world.

Where to Find English Speakers in Ashgabat?

As stated earlier, younger people in Ashgabat are more likely to speak English, and some work in the tourism industry. Visitors to Ashgabat who speak English should not expect everyone they encounter to speak the language, but it is possible to find English speakers in various locations, including hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions.The best way to ensure smooth communication is to have a Turkmen or Russian interpreter or guide, especially if you plan to travel to more remote parts of the country.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while English is taught as a second language in Ashgabat, Turkmen is the primary language spoken in the city. Learning some basic Turkmen phrases is essential to communicate with locals, especially the older generation.Visitors to Ashgabat who need to communicate more effectively in English can find help from younger people, interpreters, or guides. Regardless of the language barrier, Ashgabat is an incredible destination worth exploring for its unique architecture, cultural heritage, and friendly people.

An Insider’s Guide to Ashgabat, Turkmenistan: Exploring the City Beyond Language Barriers

Ashgabat, the capital city of Turkmenistan, invites you to explore its vast, enigmatic wonders. The city is known for its beautiful landscapes, fine architecture, and vast wealth of culture. Whether you are a first-time visitor or returning traveler, Ashgabat has a lot to offer. In this insider’s guide, we will take you on an extensive tour of the city, detailing local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Exploring Local Attractions

Ashgabat is full of stunning attractions, from the 75-meter-tall Independence Monument to the enigmatic ancient ruins of Nisa. Admire the classic marble architecture of the Berkarar Shopping Mall or experience the beauty of the Turkmen carpets at the National Museum of History. Don’t forget to visit the Monument of Neutrality, a 75-meter-tall tower that once held a gold statue of the country’s first president.

For a bit of nature, head to the Kopet Dag Mountains, where you can hike, explore the caves, or ski on the slopes.

Dining Like a Local

Prepare to indulge in traditional Turkmen cuisine, heavily influenced by neighboring countries like Iran, Afghanistan, and Russia. Ashgabat’s culinary scene is bursting with rich flavors, and many local restaurants offer affordable yet high-quality food. Try the local rice dish known as plov, made with sautéed meat, onions, carrots, and rice. Alternatively, head to one of the city’s many street stalls and try out chuchvara, a kind of small dumpling usually served in a warm broth.

Immersing in Local Culture

Ashgabat offers abundant cultural experiences that shouldn’t be missed. Take a stroll through the Ertugrul Gazi Mosque, one of the biggest mosques in Central Asia, built in honor of the father of Osman I. Head to the Turkmenistan State Circus for a show or take a dip in the Geok-Tepe Thermal Springs.

Don’t miss out on watching the Akhal-Teke horse race, a national sport played amongst locals for centuries. You can also enjoy a performance by the State Choir or visit the Turkmen Carpet Museum to learn about the traditional art of carpet-making, a significant cultural activity in the country.

Exploring the Local History

Ashgabat’s long and varied history is fascinating. Explore the ancient ruins of Nisa, you’d be transported back to the Parthian Empire of the 3rd century BCE, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Head to the National Museum of History to get an understanding of Turkmen culture and learn about the country’s history.

Visit the ancient ruins of Merv, an essential Silk Road stopover and one of the oldest and most well-preserved oasis cities in Central Asia. At the Abiverd Fortress you’ll find the remains of a settlement built on the edge of the Karakum Desert over thousands of years.

Going off the Beaten Path

If you’re looking for unique experiences, head outside Ashgabat to the surrounding desert for a truly unforgettable experience. Visit the Door-to-Hell or Darvaza Gas Crater, where a natural gas field collapsed and created a burning crater in the middle of the desert. Alternatively, visit the Yangykala Canyon, an unexplored and fabulous canyon with striking geological features.

For more adventure, take a train to the ancient city of Abiverd, now in ruins, for bird-watching or explore the few remaining living spaces and remnants of the once-bustling oasis city of Görogly.

Conclusion

Ashgabat is a must-see destination in Central Asia, offering travelers an incredible cultural and historic experience. From exploring ancient ruins to enjoying the warm waters at Geok-Tepe, there is something for everyone when visiting Ashgabat. And while not everyone speaks English, you can still communicate and be enchanted by the people’s warmth and hospitality.