Segovia is a picturesque old city with twisting alleyways, the highest concentration of Romanesque churches in all of Europe and pedestrian-only streets. The majority of Segovia’s attractions are found in the Old Town. The ancient Roman aqueduct, fairy-tale castle, awe-inspiring cathedral and mystical monasteries reveal Segovia’s rich cultural heritage.

credit: santiagolopezpastor

Turkmenistan is a Central Asian nation roughly the size of California. It shares borders with Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, and Iran. Primarily a desert country has a population of around six million people. Turkmenistan is located in an active seismic zone. Earth tremors can occur and there is a possibility of earthquakes. Officially tourism is welcomed, but onerous visa requirements discourage all but the most determined visitors. All visa applications made at Turkmen Embassies overseas are referred to Ashgabat for a decision. This can take 20 days or more. There is an accelerated 24 hours service, but a supplementary fee of approximately US$150 will be charged.

Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque

Turabeg Khanym Mausoleum

Hajji Gurbanguly Mosque

Mausoleum of Sultan Sanjar

Pokrovkaya Church

Najmeddin Kubra Mausoleum

ruins at Gonur

Regional Museum

Azadi Mosque

Circus, Ashgabat

Lenin Statue

Earthquake Memorial

credit: David Stanley