The official language is Turkmen, however Russian is still commonly used throughout, as well as Uzbek. Most volunteers moved out into apatments after the manitory one month host family asisgnment. I however stayed with my family the whole time. They provided the best experience for me. I loved my host family very much and hope to stay in contact with them.
Normal housing is a one story house or apartment.
Electricity and running water is not standard in all areas. The host family may or may not have a telephone. The most common foods are bread, rice, and meats. Hot tea, mineral water, locally produced alcohol are common beverages. Food was my least favorite part of Turkmenistan.