applynow

Turkmenistan Lifestyle and Culture

Find Programs
(Bachelor's, Master's & PhD)

Nothing is so uncomfortable as being caught-up between deciding how to behave and not having the chance to do so especially if you're in a foreign land! We understand that studying abroad can be a life-changing experience and, should you choose Turkmenistan, our RocApply tips and guides will enhance what will already be a wonderful trip by helping you also understand the culture and etiquette in Turkmenistan.  We recommend that you thoroughly go through this guide to enhance your peaceable stay with the Turkmen.

The first major name in history to set foot in Turkmenistan was Alexander the Great. Later, the territory became difficult to resist by the warring empire builder Genghis Khan and his Mongol people. Later still it became the subject of colonization when it became part of the Soviet Union in the 20th century. Even after the end of the days of communism, Turkmenistan continued to have a rough history but as history unfolds into the 21st century, things look bright for this fascinating crossroads of eastern and western tradition.

To gain a full view of the centuries-old traditions of the Turkmen people, you should spend time taking in a show at one of the theaters in the capital. At the Mollanepes Drama Theater in Ashgabat, regular shows every Wednesday to Sunday from 7:00 p.m are manned. Check the listings for the latest performances based on the Turkmen calendar. During the winter months only, you can catch shows at the Magtymguly Theater, with performances starting at 7:00 p.m also.

The country has a unique and remarkable history. Traditionally a nomadic people, Turkmen are descended from several separate tribes or clans, each speaking a distinct dialect and with its own style of dress. The people are renowned for their lavish hospitality, respect for seniors, honesty, and sincere generosity. To this day, a visitor will be offered tea and food before even being allowed to explain why he has come!

Among the most exceptional values for the Turkmen are friendship and love, always maintaining friendly relations with their neighbors - it is believed that "If your neighbor is happy, you will be happy too." Another common saying concerns horses, which natives have bred and trained for millennia: "Water is a Turkmen's life, a horse is his wings, and a carpet is his soul." Horses here are virtually part of the family and the beautiful Akhal-Teke breed is the national emblem.

The most vibrant and respected musicians are the bakhshi. A musician-storyteller, he travels from city to city, dressed in special clothing and carrying his own utensils and water drawn from his own bowels. The villagers will have prepared a carpet-covered platform for them and there, by firelight, up to two-thousand people will gather to listen as the bakhshi sings, starting before sunset and ending long after sunrise the following morning.

Turkmen are people full of compassion and courtesy! This is evidenced by the level of security and peace the country offers. You will likely stay for the entirety of your study period unbothered here! There is no need to contemplate about studying here. The country lives up to its fame! Make your application today with RocApply and get started to roll with everyone else here.

" Its a place to be" - Martin from Canada

How RocApply Works