35 Countries Where Tourists Get the Royal Treatment (And 20 Where They Don't)

54. Turkmenistan: Closed Society and Bureaucratic Maze

Turkmenistan is notoriously difficult to visit, often described as one of the most closed societies in the world. Obtaining a visa is a bureaucratic maze, and independent travel is usually impossible, requiring a government-approved tour guide and itinerary. Surveillance is common, and interactions with locals are often limited. While the country boasts unique architecture, the overwhelming sense of state control, the difficulty in navigating official requirements, and the general lack of spontaneity create a distinctly unwelcoming atmosphere, making a genuine connection with the country challenging.