Things I can't tell you about Turkmenistan [BTS 50]

There is definitely truth in your story, and I don't argue about censorship and lack of freedom of speech in Turkmenistan. I also traveled to Turkmenistan a few years ago; however, my experience was a bit different from yours. I am not a citizen of Turkmenistan, but I am a Turkmen who was born and raised in Iran and fluent in the language. I had my little Canon camera with me everywhere, and I took so many pictures including some from the national guard and the market that you mentioned. Also I vividly remembered chatting at bars, and in a park about the government. People were talking almost openly and criticizing a bit. Of course, it was nothing like American freedom of speech but still. The caveat is I was talking with locals in Turkmen, and my political conversation was only in person and not being recorded.

I would say that is a bit scary but is also very interesting. I film my travels and it would be intimidating.

Thanks for this awesome insight John! I always love hearing stories like this. It helps us all put the pieces together 🐉

If I remember correctly, I was told that it was "democratic elections" in Turkmenistan where the President "won" with a 99% majority. I'm sure you noticed my "subtle" quotation marks.

It's sad that Turkmenistan is still this way, actually worse than it was. I was a Peace Corps volunteer in Uzbekistan in the late 90s and returned to visit UZ and other Central Asian countries in late 2008, but never made it to Turkmenistan because of the tight controls. Turkmenistan used to have Peace Corps volunteers until the end of 2012, and at least in the late 90s they were able to live with the locals, fly cheap domestic flights, and while they were likely observed, were able to function within the framework of the country (I know they did have to be careful, and video cameras were just not a thing back then). Now that Uzbekistan and other Central Asian nations have wisened up about letting those tourist dollars flow in, Turkmenistan is holding out but I wonder for how long. It'll be interesting to see how things develop over the next 10-20 years. I hope to visit Turkmenistan someday, whether it's still a "censorocracy" or if it loosens up a bit. Thanks for sharing!

No wonder your narration was quite extensive in your last vlog as "he who shall not be named" is watching everybody and everything! 👀 It's sad to note how fabricated the beauty of certain spots or destinations are when one has a restrictive government. This just shows us why freedom and democracy is very important because it truly affects one's way and quality of life. Now I'm really curious to see the rest of your vlog series to find out more about this interesting country. 🤔

Thanks so much for this Brandon! The ruins will be the 3rd video after this one. Have to ride the Ferriss Wheel, and visit a market first. You'll love them for sure though!

Hey man! Turkmenistan sounds like a fascinating place that I can't wait to learn more about through your content on YouTube (and especially, your videos here on Patreon). I find it interesting for sure, but it does sound a bit intimidating as well, like you'd constantly be walking on eggshells to make sure you don't say, ask, or do anything that could get you into trouble. I'm a huge lover of ancient history and archaeology, so I'm looking forward to seeing the ruins you visited, and of course, roasting marshmallows over the door to hell sounds and looks like it will be an epic video. Thanks so much for sharing these stories, man. You know you're a master storyteller when you can make your viewers feel both the tension and the intrigue as you walk us through what Ashgabat was like. One of many reasons why I think you should write a book someday! Keep up the amazing work, man. Can't wait to hear more! 🐉🐉🐉🐉

Brandon Moore