Turkmenistan & Uzbekistan
 

Dear riders,

has anybody of you been recently in Turmenistan and Uzbekistan (and perhaps also in Georgia and Armenia)?

Are those regions affected by criminality, danger and annoyance? Do you think are safe places to ride for a couple (my wife and me) on a striking red BMW 1100 GS?

We have good experience of long distance motorbiking travels (North Africa, Middle East, Iran, West and East Europe), but I feel Central Asia as a dangerous place.

Many thanks for any info

Pietro

Recent news from the Central Asia region (as of 2 weeks - but unfortunately wasnt with 2W) Generally speaking Turmen.-Ozbek. is safe except for Fergana region in Ozbekistan.But same rule for not leaving bikes with loads ,unattended.Always pick a parking lot.I couldnt travel to Russia through Goergia in August(this time 2W) because of Abhazya region in north part.That is the only part in Georgia which is off limits.

Lonely Planet would have you believe (for the past number of years anyway) that taking vehicles into Central Asia is not possible. But have bribe, will travel, I suppose.

I hear that Turkmenistan is not issuing any visas for tourists because of SARS?? Nor are they giving letters of introduction! Anyone heard anything to confirm. Tks

[This message has been edited by simmo (edited 30 April 2003).]