Bukhara
Today the atmosphere of a Silk Road city is once again returning to Bukhara. Narrow alleyways, sectioned by dark imposing heavy carved…
Uzbekistan possesses the cream of Central Asian architecture, epitomised by the magnificent Registan Square in Samarkand.
Back in the early ’90s, Steppes Travel was the only company in the UK to be offering trips to Uzbekistan. As such, our expertise in this region is unrivalled and we would recommend a trip to Uzbekistan for anyone who wants to get to the heart of Central Asia.
Recent investment has produced some excellent hotels and small guesthouses that are brimming with character; plus, there are direct flights from London and some excellent high-speed train routes. It is now also a visa-free destination. Despite the modernisation, the traditional chapan (or coat) and long afternoon battles of chess and backgammon are still very much a common sight.
Today, much of Uzbekistan is a shadow of its former glory, however, the buildings and architecture which remain, much dating from the 13th and 15th centuries, are truly magnificent and one can only wonder at the skills of the craftsmen who laboured with such primitive tools. The markets are a delight and a photographic paradise; while outside the cities, the dusty, isolated villages with their flocks of woolly, fat-tailed sheep have changed little over the years.
In Eastern Uzbekistan, lies the fertile valley of Fergana. Shielded by mountains, this conservative region is an ethnic melting pot where mosques and bazaars are alive with activity. The centre for silk production, it was a crucial link on the fabled silk route. From the Fergana Valley, it is a short drive to cross the border into Kyrgyzstan which combines beautifully with Uzbekistan, showcasing mountainous landscapes and nomadic culture.
Tajikistan and Turkmenistan also combine well and offer diverse scenery, ranging from mountains to deserts and lakes; as well as a thriving felt-making industry and fascinating archaeological sites.
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01285 601 784Uzbekistan is not known as a culinary destination and food here merges influences from Russia, Tajikistan, Mongolia and Turkey.Popular dishes include ‘Plov’, a rice dish traditionally made with meat, vegetables and infused with herbs and spices, cooked together all at once.
It is best to visit Uzbekistan in the spring, between April and early June when days are dry and temperatures warm, and similarly in the autumn between September and early November. Winters can be bitterly cold and summers dry and extremely hot.
British passport holders travelling to Uzbekistan for tourism, for duration’s of up to 30 days do not require a visa. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of departure from Uzbekistan.
Other nationals would need to check with the respective embassy or contact us for assistance.
Flying direct from London to the capital of Tashkent takes around seven hours.
Alcohol can be consumed, though is not always available due to Uzbekistan being a Muslim country. However, it does produce its own wine thanks to the perfect climate and terrain, and with around 14 Vineyards to choose from you will be spoilt for choice.
More and more train routes are appearing and it is now possible to connect all the way from Tashkent to Khiva by high speed train.
Uzbekistan is five hours ahead of GMT.
As the country is only now opening up to tourism, crime and being hassled is basically non-existent in Uzbekistan, especially due to the harsh penalties for committing any offences.
Roaming agreements exist with a few international mobile phone companies, although the coverage is average and charges are high. Pre paid SIM cards are available, and can be topped up during your trip.
Phones are available at most hotels, though making a call from your hotel room can be very expensive. Enquire at the reception.
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