President Berdymukhammedov plans to open a new economic free zone along the Caspian Sea that would welcome tourists to his country. The zone would center around the town of Turkmenbashi and be called “Avaza”.
Previously, Turkmenistan's tourism efforts were hampered by its stringent security. The new tourism zone would cut down on the constant curbside inspection of visas and passports, making the travel experience more friendly.
The initiative was proposed by Mr. Berdymuhammedov on May 11 in Kazakhstan and enjoys both Russian and Kazakhstani support. The economic free zone would apply to materials for bringing infrastructure and development into the area in order to make Avaza more destination-worthy.
However, local travel agencies in Turkmenistan have declined in recent years, and the lack of changes in the security system and transparency of government relations to business have created significant perceived barriers to entry in this business, IWPR reports.
My two cents: While many tourists would appreciate five-star hotel service envisioned in the official Travel and Tourism notes (from the Embassy of Turkmenistan to the US), the real niche for tourism in the state, in my opinion, would require greater openness to eco-
touring and the experience of cultural and geographical diversity. This is usually obtained by staying in smaller hotels without a resort atmosphere, and allowing people to explore more on their own. Tourists of this type are more likely to brave the longer journey to Turkmenistan.
Which, against a recent backdrop of increased security, seems less likely. Border control regimes, including passport inspections, have increased in intensity this month.
Photos: BBC; Hotels Shopper; France, Diplomatie
