After more than three long years, Turkmenistan has finally opened to tourism again. To celebrate this monumental feat, the government of this Central Asian republic has announced that every 10
th
tourist to the country will win a new car. Winning a free car is a common occurrence in Turkmenistan with the winning jockeys of the nations horse races winning a car’, as well those who had previously completed the Walk of Health also being presented with a car, by the previous President.
This amazing promotion also has the secondary effect of constituting a new world record. In a country – Turkmenistan – famous for holding the world record for holding the most world records, as well as the city – Ashgabat – with the world record for the city with the most world records, this will mean Turkmenistan will now hold a new world record – the record for the most free cars given away.
The promotion is a collaboration between the Turkmenistan tourism authorities and the country’s leading car manufacturer – Turkmenbashy Motors, whose famous slogan is “oh what a feeling, Turkmenbashy!”. Known for their economical mileage of 7 miles to the gallon (11km per 4 litres) and manual window wipers, the Turkmenbashy Yurta come with speed stripes to ensure the car reaches its full potential of 26km/h. Those who are lucky enough to win the prestigious 7 door family saloon, will have the choice of any colour as long as it’s white.
In Turkmenistan, petrol prices are only a few cents per litre and gas is practically free, meaning the car is a great way to see this amazing country.
The current president reportedly got his inspiration from his favourite television personality – Oprah Winfrey. The leader of the country will be at Ashgabat’s famous eagle shaped airport as people clear immigration and customs shouting “you get a car…. and you get a car…. and you get a car!”
It’s expected that this promotion will see huge increases in the number of visitors to the country which historically has not enjoyed the same numbers as more popular destinations such as Uganda or Nauru. Although it’s hoped this will soon change as people try their luck.
Some aviation experts have warned of fights getting off the plane as people attempt to be 10 th , 20 th , 30 th etc to disembark. For those flights with less than 10 passengers, those on board will compete to see who can eat the most plov, with the winner needing the car due to their inability to walk after eating kilos of the heavy oily rice dish that Central Asians consider a delicacy.
For your chance to win a brand new car, as well as experience the trip of a lifetime, contact us to book a tour. Who knows, maybe you’ll get lucky.
