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The four-star Grand Turkmen Hotel has a central location in the white marble city of Ashgabat. The Museum of Fine Arts, the Russian Bazaar and Oguzhan Palace are within walking distance, while other sites of interest are just a short drive away, including the Monument of Independence, Ertugrul Gazi Mosque and the Presidential Palace.

Across seven floors, 120 guest rooms welcome guests and each one has a fully stocked mini bar, air-conditioning and Wi-Fi. Many rooms have balconies overlooking the city. Front desk staff speak many languages, including English, and can give sightseeing recommendations, as well as helpful hotel advice for services including the hotel’s laundry service.

There are plenty of ways to relax at the Grand Turkmen. Escape the summer heat with a dip in the large outdoor swimming pool or sip a drink at the poolside bar. Alternatively, visit the fitness centre to unwind in the sauna.

As night falls, a huge range of cuisine is on offer at the hotel’s Silk Road restaurant, including Turkmen, Turkish and European dishes. If you want to eat local, look out for ‘plov’, a staple Turkmen dish consisting of mutton, carrots and fried rice. Afterwards, make a stop at the Bosphourus Bar for a vodka or two.