Uzbekistan: A Glimpse Beyond the Tourist Trail (Late July 2024)
Just back from over two weeks dedicated solely to Uzbekistan (excluding Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan), I explored the country at a relaxed pace during its hottest period. Here are a few observations you might not typically find in travel reviews.
The Warmth of Uzbek Hospitality
The people are incredibly friendly and the service is generally polite. Whether wandering around at night or browsing the markets, I felt safe. While vendors in the markets might try to inflate prices (especially for fruit), it's not exorbitant.
Summer Fruits: Nature's Antidote to the Heat
Cherries, watermelons, melons, and raisins are particularly delicious. Watermelon and melon became my staples for combating the heat. A word of caution: buy cherries in small quantities because they ferment quickly in your backpack under the sun!
One thing I noticed: fruit juice in restaurants can be expensive, sometimes costing as much as a meal.
Navigating the Uzbek Summer
Expect average temperatures of 38-42 degrees Celsius (100-108 Fahrenheit) in the shade. The sun is scorching, and local trains can be stiflingly hot. However, the high-speed trains running from Tashkent through Samarkand to Bukhara are air-conditioned, fast, and offer attentive service with snacks and drinks.
Most cars are white. Locals explained that darker-colored cars can feel like an oven inside!
Beyond the Iconic Mosques: Uncovering Hidden Gems
While the stunning turquoise-tiled mosques, madrasahs, and other architectural marvels in Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva are must-sees, consider these alternative destinations:
- The Institute of the Sun in Parkent: Located in one of the sunniest and hottest places on earth, it's home to one of only two solar furnaces in the world capable of melting metal using sunlight.
- Nukus - Moynaq: Visit the Aral Sea and delve into the unique Karakalpakstan culture (explore their cuisine, handicrafts, and museums).
- Urgench: Sample the renowned camel milk ice cream. This city boasts a rich history as a former capital. Because it attracts fewer tourists than the larger cities, you'll find the locals to be more genuine. The traditional market is impressive, slightly smaller than the Osh Bazaar, but less tourist-oriented and features fascinating stalls selling live animals.
