Information for travellers

The Tukastani have traditionally been a hospitable people, who are humorous and open to strangers and new impressions. This results from the historical trade relations, especially with the Near East and along the Silk Road. In the rural areas, however, the Tukastani have preserved the friendliness and openness among themselves, even in order to survive in difficult times through common support. The focus was and still is on their own family and often common relatives.

With the independence of the country and the return to traditional values, especially since the turn of the millennium, the simultaneously increasing stabilization of the country led to the fact that the historical hospitality and openness to new impressions are lived again more intensively. Foreigners and the few travellers in the country so far are addressed straight out and involved in talks. There is always great interest in why someone travels to Tukastan, what the person does for a living and, above all, how their family is doing. From the long tradition of the trade results therefore also the one or other intention to come with the strange persons into the business, by offering for example goods from own production or services. Although this traditional “merchant soul” is sometimes paired with a certain refinement, honesty and sincerity are an important virtue for the Tukastani. When a promise is made, it is kept.

In addition, the Tukastani are very attached to their country and proud of Tukastan traditions and today’s Tukastan. This pride goes hand in hand with a faithful devotion to President Al-Hullain, who is deeply revered. This can also be seen in the pictures of the President, which are displayed in all houses, public buildings and artistically, and which, when entering the building, are given due respect, be it through military greetings or an appropriate bow.

A cultural peculiarity is the traditional Tukastan greeting, which is done with the left hand. Often the right hand is held behind the back. The exact origin of this greeting is unclear, historical documents prove that this greeting already existed before the 15th century.