Introducing Uzbekistan

'This was my first trip to Central Asia, and what I discovered in Uzbekistan was a delightful surprise! I was blown away by its incredible Silk Road history, unique architecture, and ancient cities.

Getting there was straightforward, a direct flight from London with Uzbekistan Airways to Tashkent, the bustling cosmopolitan capital greeted me with its enormous Chorsu Bazaar and magnificent metro stations.

Chorsu Bazar, Tashkent 

The real adventure began with a short flight west to Khiva, where stepping into the walled fortress of Ichan Kala felt like stepping back in time. The semi-restored Kalta Minor minaret stood among striking madrasahs, mosques, and narrow winding streets and alleyways.

Khiva, Walled City

The next stop was Bukhara, driving through the vast Kyzylkum Desert and catching glimpses of the Amu Darya River and the Turkmenistan border. Bukhara is a walkable ancient city, highlights include the amazing Ark, the former residence of the Emir, the Miri Arab Madrasah with its gorgeous blue domes, and many more sites of interest. Just outside of Bukhara, the summer palace of the Emir, Sitorai Mohi Hosa, offered a fascinating blend of Asian design and Russian architecture.

Po-i-Kalyan Mosque Complex and the Kalyan Minaret, Bukhara

From Bukhara, I hopped aboard a modern bullet train making the journey to Samarkand a comfortable one in under two hours. Samarkand, Uzbekistan’s third-largest city, is home to the awe-inspiring Registan, a central square surrounded by ornately tiled madrassahs. It is worth a visit by day when you can explore and by night when they have a light show.

Registan Square with three madrasahs Ulugh Beg, Tilya-Kori and Sher-Dor, Samarkand

However, I found the Shah-i-Zinda of Samarkand the most moving place I have visited in Uzbekistan. It is a stunning avenue of mausoleums; each tomb was different with exquisite tilework and stories of families and loved ones across the ages. 

Historical Cemetery of Shah-i Zinda, Samarkand

A final bullet train back to Tashkent brought an end to a memorable trip.

Uzbekistan offers so much more than ancient history. The locals are warm and eager to share their stories, proud to introduce visitors to their cities, culture, and traditions. Expect friendly faces at every market, restaurant, and guesthouse.

Locals, Uzbekistan

The country enjoys a continental climate, meaning dry weather year-round with hot summers and chilly winters. The best time to visit is spring (March-April) or autumn (September-October) when the milder weather makes exploring Uzbekistan even more enjoyable.

In short, Uzbekistan was unlike anywhere I had been before and will linger fondly in my memory.'

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