Turkmenistan has a low rate of violent crime, but common street crime has increased, especially at night. Recommends that westerners, especially women, not walk or take public transportation or taxis alone, especially after dark.
Passports: The theft or loss of a passport is a major source of inconvenience and expense to travelers in Turkmenistan. Before starting your trip to Turkmenistan, make a record or photocopy of the data from your passport's identification page and from your visa. Also make a copy of the address and telephone numbers of tyour Embassy. Put this information along with two passport photos in a place separate from your passport to be available in case of loss or theft. Leave a second page of your passport information and your itinerary with a relative or friend where you live.
In the Hotel: Practice the usual security precautions that you would in any large city. Do not leave large amounts of money or valuables in your room. Store them in the hotel safe. Do not allow "room service" into your room unless you are expecting them. And learn where the fire and emergency exits are on your floor.
On the Road: If you plan to drive outside of the city, try to leave at least a tentative itinerary with a colleague, as well as your estimated time of return.
Ashgabat's streets are not well marked and its back streets are often in disrepair. It is very easy to get lost in the city, particularly after dark. When driving after dark or in unfamiliar areas, keep your car doors locked. If you must ask for directions, try to find a busy, well-lit area before getting out of your car.
Muggings are becoming a more frequent occurrence in Ashgabat, and Westerners are often the targets. If you are walking, particularly after dark, avoid poorly lit or uninhabited streets.
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on Jul 23, 2003
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