Meet a woman whose story is as bold as it is inspiring, Akbabek Taganova, a trailblazing Turkmen entrepreneur who spent 25 years building a successful construction company before trading concrete for curiosity. When her children became independent and her business proved it could thrive under remote leadership, she seized the moment to follow a long-held dream: to see the world with her own eyes.
What began as a four-month experiment quickly evolved into a transformative, year-long journey, unveiling not only the world’s diversity but also the untapped depths of her own resilience and passion.
In this interview, she shares her unique perspective as a Turkmen woman traveler, her evolving philosophy on exploration, and the unforgettable moments — both beautiful and challenging — that have marked her path.
Join us on a journey through her words, and discover what it means to travel not just across countries, but through transformation itself.
Tell us a little about yourself and how your initial interest in travel developed.
For a quarter-century, the landscape of my life was defined by the robust world of Turkmen construction. I nurtured my company, a symbol of my dedication and achievement. Yet, a subtle shift in perspective prompted a journey of self-discovery. Recognizing my children’s independent paths, I embraced the challenge of remote management. This bold move, initially a four-month experiment, blossomed into a year-long voyage, revealing not only the company’s resilience but my own capacity for transformation. With newfound freedom, I turned to a lifelong yearning – travel. Driven by an insatiable curiosity, I sought to experience the world unfiltered, to craft my own narrative within the Earth’s breathtaking tapestry.
What type of traveller would you consider yourself (note: budget/luxury, slow/fast, overland/flying, solo/group etc.) and what do you feel are the advantages of your style of travel?
Pinpointing my travel style is a challenge, as it’s a dynamic blend of preferences. I prioritize a balanced approach, seeking authentic experiences without sacrificing comfort. I find a unique connection with the world through road trips, feeling the pulse of a place as it unfolds before me. However, I’m also pragmatic, utilizing various modes of transport as needed. I value both the introspective depth of solo travel and the shared joy of group adventures, each offering distinct pathways to understanding. Ultimately, my travel philosophy is rooted in flexibility, driven by curiosity and a willingness to embrace the unknown.
Are you aiming for 193/197 or not really? Why or why not?
My grand ambition is to visit every nation on Earth – to be, perhaps, the first Turkmen citizen to achieve this feat. Yet, beyond this personal goal, my travels have instilled in me a deep reverence for the Earth’s beauty. It is a breathtaking spectacle, and I feel compelled to share its wonders with the world. Ultimately, my hope is to contribute, in some small way, to its preservation – shielding it from the ravages of pollution, violence, and war.
Of the countries you have visited so far, which one was the greatest positive surprise and why?
Rwanda stands out as a particularly transformative experience. Having only encountered news reports of civil unrest and devastation, I approached the country with trepidation. What I discovered, however, was a revelation: a nation of warm, welcoming people, immaculately clean streets, and even motorcyclists adhering to helmet regulations – a stark contrast to my preconceptions. The delicious cuisine was an added delight. Rwanda became a powerful reminder of the importance of challenging preconceived notions.
And which one was a negative surprise, if any?
My travels have been remarkably free of negative experiences. While some countries may possess developing economies and infrastructure, I view this not as a detriment, but as a stage in their journey of progress. I remain optimistic about their future.
As a Turkmenistan woman, do you feel there are specific advantages or disadvantages to your travels in certain countries? How do people react when they hear you’re from Turkmenistan?
As a woman, I’ve found acceptance and curiosity in every corner of the globe. People are intrigued by Turkmen culture, often wonder about its diversity and judge me by my appearance, surprised that Turkmen can be like that. Unfortunately, many do not know about Turkmenistan. For example, in South Sudan, at the immigration control, they doubted the existence of such a country and the authenticity of my passport.
But there were also pleasant moments, while some regions remain unfamiliar with Turkmenistan, in Guinea, a policeman recognized Turkmenistan and greeted me in Turkish. In Guinea-Bissau, I patiently taught the locals to pronounce my homeland’s name. In Djibouti, the joyful chanting of “Turkmenistan” by the Pygmies was a moment of pure connection. My dream is to illuminate my nation’s existence, a goal I believe will be realized through education and understanding.
And what are your three favourite places in your country?
Turkmenistan boasts a wealth of natural wonders, often overlooked even by its own citizens. Among my favorites are:
- Mollakara: A saline lake renowned for its therapeutic mud, attracting visitors seeking its healing properties.
- Yangi-Kala: A canyon of breathtaking beauty, its multi-colored cliffs and dramatic formations resembling ancient fortresses.
- Kow-Ata: An underground lake within a cavern, its warm, mineral-rich waters offering a unique and restorative experience.
Please give us two travel stories that stand out and have stayed with you until today.
My travels have been punctuated by moments of both peril and wonder.
In Senegal, a man in a carnival mask, whom I was observing through a car window, suddenly attacked, inflicting a minor injury on my finger. The festive scene turned menacing in an instant (there’s a moment when I was taking a video).
Later, in Chad, I faced a near-drowning experience in a treacherous swamp. The serene surface belied hidden danger, and I was pulled under. Thankfully, my friends were there, and their quick action pulled me from the muddy depths. I escaped with a foot injury, but the terrifying ordeal underscored the unpredictable nature of adventure, where danger can lurk beneath even the most beautiful surfaces (on the photos you can see my insured foot).
If you were told you could never travel abroad again and had to choose one country to settle in for the rest of your life, which country would you choose and why?
My heart resides in Turkmenistan. Here, I find a sense of security, comfort, and belonging. The stability, the climate, the warmth of its people, and the pristine environment create a sanctuary I cherish. I extend a warm invitation to all to experience the beauty of my homeland.
Let’s turn to NomadMania, whose Envoy you are. What are some things you especially like about NomadMania?
NomadMania has become an indispensable tool for my travels. It’s a platform for planning, tracking, and connecting with fellow adventurers. It streamlines my journeys, enriching my life with shared experiences and a sense of community.
Tell us about your role as Envoy. What have you done so far and how do you envisage doing more in the future?
As a NomadMania Envoy, I’m dedicated to expanding the platform’s reach within Central Asia. I share my insights, promote its benefits, and assist others in their travel planning. My vision includes organizing gatherings and events for both NomadMania members and regional travel agencies.
If you could change or improve one thing about NomadMania, what would it be?
I envision NomadMania with a stronger focus on Central Asia, providing more comprehensive information and fostering greater interaction among travelers from this region. These nations, each with its unique charm, deserve greater recognition. I also wish to see language barriers addressed, with options for translation, particularly into Russian, to enhance accessibility.
Our founder’s presentation at last year’s ETF focused on dark travel and travellers’ moral responsibilities and ended asking people whether they believe their freedom of movement is their number one motivator when travelling or whether there should be some other (moral or other) motivators. What is your take on this?
For me, travel is synonymous with freedom. It’s the inherent right to explore, to learn, and to connect with the world’s diverse tapestry.
And finally, our signature question. If you could invite any 4 people – from any period in human history, alive or dead, even fictional characters – to an imaginary dinner, who would want to invite and why?
I would invite Marilyn vos Savant, President Trump, Warren Buffet and Elon Musk. Because I admire intelligence, and I like individuals who embody courage, resilience, and a spirit of unwavering determination. Those who dare to challenge the status quo, overcome obstacles, and pursue their passions with unwavering conviction.
