Staying at Marian’s Guesthouse in Dushanbe, Tajikistan

On arrival in Tajikistan for the first time, I based myself in a guesthouse that knows a bit about hospitality. A quick bit of online research showed that Marian’s Guesthouse in Dushanbe was the first and original guesthouse option in the Tajikistan capital. This was my place to stay and a cool base while touring the region, not just Tajikistan itself, but the autonomous region of Gorno Badakhshan.

On arrival, I am greeted by Marian herself, an Australian, and shown to my room. Marian’s Guesthouse is the first and only ex-patriate operated guesthouse in Dushanbe, a city which hasn’t quite hit the hardcore backpacker scene yet, despite the fact that a Tajikistan Visa is easy enough to get nowadays in Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan).

Here are some of my favourite things about my wonderfully cosy stay here at Marian’s Guesthouse. I was well looked after here.

1.History of the Guesthouse
Established in 2003, Marian’s was started from scratch and has a nice history. Opened as the first ex-Pat run Guesthouse and playing host to ambassadors, diplomats, consultants over the years. It’s a favourite for business travellers now too – a tranquil hangout. A book in the lounge here tells the story about the construction of the guesthouse.

2.Cosy Private Rooms
Long term travelling in dorms with snoring eejits (idiots) had me in need of a good night’s sleep and I got it here! Wouldn’t we all in a room like this?

My room also had a bloggers, desk, a TV, a heater, a locker and an ensuite. It was perfect and the only place in Tajikistan where I really had any decent WiFi access. Khorog and Kulob were horrendous for WiFi.

3.Central Location
Marian’s Guesthouse is a five minute walk from Rudaki Park and the main downtown area. I was able to walk my way through all the main sights from here, and even had a local pub for 5 nights – the Public Irish Pub. Dushanbe is an under-rated city.

If you need a Belarus visa, it’s just a 2 minute walk from the Embassy as well!

4.Breakfast
Breakfast is included and is served whenever you want. On my early departure to the border, Marian arranged for a 7am breakfast for me and it was sitting waiting for me!

Tea and coffee is also available at all times and I had a kettle in my room.

5.Airport and Bus/Train Pick Ups
If you have any worries or are daunted by Dushanbe at first, then have no fear – Marian’s Guesthouse will arrange to collect you from the airport, bus or train station. Shoukrouh was my driver and a top man!

Here are the details for booking Marian’s Guesthouse:

• 67/1 Shotemur
• +992 93 505 0089
• [email protected]
• http://www.mariansguesthouse.com/

Here are some videos from my time at Marian’s Guesthouse in Dushanbe, Tajikistan: