UZBEKISTAN THE COUNTRY IN THE HEART OF CENTRAL ASIA
UZBEKISTAN THE COUNTRY IN THE HEART OF CENTRAL ASIA
The Republic of Uzbekistan is a Central Asian nation and a former Soviet Republic. Its capital and biggest city is Tashkent, and has a population of over 35 million people.
Geographically, it is in the heart of Central Asia and surrounded by Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan. It is one of the only two doubly-landlocked countries on earth, with Liechtenstein, the least-visited country in Europe, being the second. (Landlocked means no access to the sea or the Atlantic, so doubly-landlocked means surrounded by other landlocked countries). Uzbekistan is a predominantly Islamic country with more than 80% Muslims (the majority regarded as Sunni Muslims). It is best known for its mosques, mausoleums, and other sites linked to the “Silk Road” (the name of the lucrative trade in silk trade route between China, the Mediterranean, and other major cities). Its economy is dependent on agriculture and it is one of the largest cotton growers worldwide. Besides this, it also cultivates, grapes, vegetables, and wheat, and raises animals, including goats, sheep, and cattle. Additionally, Uzbekistan’s land produces natural gas, oil, gold, copper, and other minerals. Read on to learn more about my visit to Uzbekistan, the country in the heart of Central Asia.
Minimum 15% saving available on new accommodation bookings at participating properties indicated by the “Early 2025” badge on the search results and room selection pages. Saving varies depending on the destination country, a full breakdown of discounts is detailed below: minimum 20% saving on properties in Asia and Oceania; minimum 15% saving elsewhere. Bookings must be made before 9:59 am CET on 01/04/25 for stays with check-in from 01/01/25 and check-out on or before 01/04/25. Discount applies to the cost of room only (excluding any additional fees or taxes). If you make any changes to your booking you may lose your discount and be liable for the full amount. Discount cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion except Genius discounts. Room rates labelled “Partner Offer” are excluded from this promotion. This offer is provided by the participating property and subject to availability.
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ARRIVAL IN TASHKENT, UZBEKISTAN
Upon arrival, everything went super smooth. The arrival area of the airport was huge but user-friendly. The immigration officers were quite pleasant and as per usual in most countries, they inspected my passport, looked at the cover, flipped through the pages, passed to another officer, talked amongst themselves, then smiled, stamped it, and passed it back to me and said, “Welcome to Uzbekistan.” After this, it was on to a big and beautiful luggage pick-up area, labelled alphabetically and with screens indicating luggage carousels assigned to each airline. From arrival to exiting the airport took less than twenty minutes, even though it is a big airport.
TRANSPORT OPTIONS TO/FROM THE AIRPORT TO DOWNTOWN TASHKENT
From/to the Tashkent International Airport to downtown the city takes approximately 10 – 20 minutes, depending on the traffic and location of your hotel. To get to the city center by taxi costs an average of $15.00 USD by airport taxi and the public bus #67 $1.25 USD. Train to the city is a 7-minute journey and costs $1.25 USD. Unfortunately, Uber does not operate in Uzbekistan but I recommend the ride-sharing taxi App (YandexGo) which operates throughout the city and costs approximately $2.00 – $3.00 USD. Therefore as soon as you enter the airport purchase a SIM card, which costs $7.50 USD and comes with free calls and 50 GB of data. Then download the YandexGo App and start saving right away, because the Airport Taxi booth located nearby costs $15.00 USD as previously mentioned.
ABOUT THE CITY OF TASHKENT
Tashkent (translates to “City of Stones” from Turkic and Persian) is the largest and most populous city in Uzbekistan and Central Asia. It has a population of over 3 million and borders Kazakhstan. Tashkent is a developed city with a mixture of modern and Soviet-era architecture, prominent Islamic architecture, historical monuments, and many museums. Moreover, it is the country’s new-age capital, due to its many high-rise buildings, even though it dates back to the 1st or 2nd century BCE.
Today Tashkent is the main economic, political, economic, and cultural center of Central Asia. Even after its destruction in 1966 by an earthquake, which left hundreds of thousands homeless and thousands dead. The city was extensively rebuilt and has truly come a long way to development. Tashkent is a huge, super-clean, safe, well-organised, and vibrant city. It has many theatres, ballets, opera houses, museums, universities and schools, stadiums, parks, restaurants, cafes, shops, etc. What’s more, it seems to be a popular tourist destination, due to the many visitors I met especially during the low travel season.
Uzbekistan, the Country in the Heart of Central Asia Cont....
Moreover, though it is a Muslim country, the city was beautifully decorated for the Christmas holidays. Long before December 25th just about everywhere, workers were busy decorating the entire capital. I think that they “busted the budget” for decorations because they were more extravagant than many countries that celebrate Christmas. However, most of their theme and signs had “2025” which they seemed to have been preparing for most. Tashkent is an exciting city with much to see and do. However, because of its size, you cannot reach most of the popular sites by foot, you will have to take a taxi or public transportation to get around.
Tips and Fun Facts about Uzbekistan
- The languages spoken – Uzbek (the official language), Russian, and Persian.
- Official currency – Uzbekistani Som (UZS).
1 USD = 12,788.700 UZS
1 Euro = 13, 923.10 UZS
1 GBP = 16,797.80 UZS
- Uzbekistan has the world’s largest open-pit gold mine and hosts the world’s largest open-cast gold mine in Muruntau in the Qizilqum Desert. Furthermore, it mines 170 million ounces of gold annually and has the fourth-largest gold deposits worldwide. Its Muruntau gold mine is the largest open gold mine in the world.
- In Uzbekistan, if you are under 20, it is illegal to gamble, possess, or use drugs, tobacco, and alcohol.
- Uzbekistan has the world’s largest shrinking lake. The Aral Sea was once the world’s fourth-largest lake, covering 26,000 square miles. However, since the 1960s, the lake has been gradually shrinking.
- Lepioshka is a bread they treat with significant respect. They don’t drop, turn it upside down, or place it on the ground, even if it is in a bag. They claim it brings bad luck. Additionally, the traditional “Obi” or “Non”, a flat, round bread, that they never slice with a knife, instead they always tear it by hand. Furthermore, they never throw out the leftovers. Following ancient tradition, family members must bite from a small piece of Uzbeki bread before departing on a journey. They must then bury or hide the remainder until they return from their journey.
- Uzbekistan is the world’s second-largest exporter and fifth-largest cotton producer.
- Soccer and tennis are the country’s most popular sports. They also highly regard other sports like cycling, wrestling, boxing, and gymnastics.
- Uzbekistan is the home to five UNESCO World Heritage Sites which include Itchan Kala, Bukhara, Samarkand, Shakhrisyabz, and Western Tien Shan.
- The oldest Quran in the world is housed in Barak-Khan Madrasah, in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. It comprises 353 parchment pages with the Koran’s original text. A replica copy is at the the Amir Temur Museum.
- Do not photograph the government or some public buildings and transport hubs as it upsets the authorities. Ask questions if you are unsure. I once got a “Hello,” from a police officer, and a finger signalling not to take any pictures of a particular building, but no forced deletion of it like in Tajikistan.
- Uzbekistan does not recognize Christmas Day, but it is not banned as reported by some. It is not a public holiday and they expect children to attend schools, and business places to remain open as any other normal day. However, if Christians wish to take a day off to do private celebrations with less fervor, as in other nations, there is no law against it.
- Homosexuality is illegal in Uzbekistan.
- Handshakes are the only acceptable greeting between Uzbek men. To greet an Uzbek woman place your right hand on your heart and bow to her.
- Uzbekistan is the most populous country in Central Asia and also of all the five former Soviet Republic countries.
- It is customary in Uzbekistan, that after a shared meal, it is common etiquette to run your hands over your face as a gesture of thanks.
- Uzbekistan is a landlocked country and therefore has no access to the ocean, only land surrounds it.
- Uzbekistan has extreme continental weather with sweltering summers and extreme winters (like what I experienced, where temperatures were at times between -2 to -9 degrees Celsius). March to mid June, and September to October are the best times to visit if you dread these extreme temperatures.
Uzbekistan, the Country in the Heart of Central Asia Cont....
FOREIGN EXCHANGE IN UZBEKISTAN
Do not bring any old United States Dollars, Euros, British Pounds, or any other foreign currencies into Uzbekistan. The Money Cambios will refuse to accept them and likewise, the hotels will also reject them. Therefore, be sure your foreign currencies are new. They will not accept any outdated, torn, or ink-stained currencies. They will accept their own currency even if it is old and tattered, but not any other, in similar condition.
I had two unfortunate incidents regarding foreign currency notes exchange in Uzbekistan. First at the airport where I tried to change a small amount for the taxi and the lady returned one of the $20.00 USD notes. She said it had ink markings on it and would not accept it. I was rather surprised by this, and later on, even the Money Cambios in the city refused to accept it.
The second incident was at the hotel when I tried to pay for my room, and they rejected two of the $100.00 USD notes. The receptionist said they were old (to me they looked new and were newly sourced from the bank). However, he pointed out that the newer notes had special makings, and a shiny ribbon running through them, and that what I had did not. Strangely, no one else accepted the notes, not even the country I visited after Uzbekistan. However, luckily, one merchant paid less than the going rate for them as a favour to me. Additionally, the hotel did not accept Euro as payment, ONLY United States of America Dollars. So please be aware when visiting Uzbekistan.
This scenario reminded me of a similar situation in Bulgaria where the Euro note had a tiny tear and was rejected by all Money Cambios, except for one who paid me less than the current rate…take it or leave it. Therefore respect your money and always keep it in good condition, especially while travelling. Additionally, when buying dollars for travel do not accept any old notes from the banks.
ABOUT THE PEOPLE OF UZBEKISTAN
The Uzbeks, are the largest Turkic group outside Turkey and third-largest from the former Soviet Union. It is the most ethnically diverse country in Central Asia. It comprises 80% Uzbekistanis, 6% Russian, and 5% Tajikistanis. Making up the remainder of the population are Ukrainians, Koreans, Kyrgyz, Armenians, Kazakhs, Jews, Germans, etc. However, with such a multi-ethnic group, the people somehow make it work to maintain peace and harmony. From my observation, they seem to get along quite well.
Uzbekistanis are predominantly Muslims as previously mentioned. However, with only some of the women fully covered, one will not believe they are in a Muslim country. Because similar to Tajikistan, the smallest country in Central Asia, the men do not wear the Thobes (long garbs) or wear the headdress. Generally, Uzbekistanis are very outgoing and friendly people. They are hospitable, helpful, and kind to their visitors. From the hotel staff to the store clerks, supermarkets, marketplaces, taxi drivers, etc. all were quite warm and pleasant. Additionally, looking at the appearance of the Uzbeks, some looked like Chinese descent, and others in the majority, looked more like Europeans. However, those with the “Chinese features” were less outgoing. Nonetheless, I felt welcomed and quite at home in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
Uzbekistan, the Country in the Heart of Central Asia Cont....
On several occasions, the locals extended true hospitality to me. For example, I remember entering a business establishment to ask for assistance on the exact pickup spot on the map of the YandexGo taxi. Because my exact location for pickup was not showing on the App, I needed some help. On entering the building, I was met by a young lady who listened and then invited me to sit. Then to my surprise, she asked if I would like a cup of tea or coffee, which I declined, but she insisted, so I gratefully accepted a cup.
She then explained that sometimes due to no-stop zones, the taxi may not come directly in front of a building but nearby. She then looked at the address and said she would guide me to it. Within two minutes the taxi arrived, I thanked her for the tea, and we both went around the building where she guided me to it. How sweet was that?! I cannot remember the company’s name, but they appeared to be the development of the city’s infrastructure. Because they had miniature-sized replicas of current and future buildings in Tashkent.
Additionally, the people must care for their own, because I saw not beggars or street dwellers in the city or anywhere else outside Tashkent.
UZBEKISTAN SAFETY AND SECURITY
Regarding security and safety in Uzbekistan, it is the safest country in Central Asia. It also captured the top spot for lowest violent crimes, severe weather, and mental health in 2023. Additionally, in 2024, it is the only one of the five countries in Central Asia with low travel risks. The others are recognized as countries with an average travel risk.
As a consequence, I felt safe throughout my stay. Needless to say, it felt like any regular day as in one of the other 50 safest countries around the world, that I previously visited. I walked alone day and night, without looking over my shoulder. Besides, police officers were always quite visible everywhere, especially at the tourist spots. I am unsure if this is a deterrent and reason for the low crime rate in the country, or if the people are just lawful citizens. Suffice it to say, I experienced no pickpockets or petty crimes, and heard of no robberies or other criminal activities during my stay.
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HOW EXPENSIVE ARE THE ACCOMMODATIONS, MEALS, AND TRANSPORTATION?
Prices for everything in Uzbekistan are fairly inexpensive. The meals, accommodation, and all public transportation (buses, minibuses, metro/rail, and taxis), are also, simply cheap. For example, my hotel which was really nice, cost less than $25.00 USD per night and with free breakfast (#Ad check it here on Booking.com). I used the ridesharing App taxi service (YandexGo) instead of the bus because it was economical and accessible. Even its delivery food service was economical, time-saving, and perfect for those refusing to go out at night or on snow-covered days.
The other forms of public transportation like buses, the subway (I used once only to view the many gorgeous metro stations), railways, and other taxis are even more economical. However, I chose to use YandexGo because of its price, reliability, and convenience.
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ABOUT UZBEKISTAN FOOD
Uzbekistan has a rich culinary heritage and is known for its meats, fragrant rice, and aromatic spices. With influences from Central Asia, the Middle East, and Russia, Uzbekistan’s food is unique and enticing. Its cuisine includes noodles, rice, bread, and meat (especially sheep) all sourced from their farmland as staples and the use of mild spices. However, I honestly thought that most of their cuisine was similar to Tajikistan’s but with milder spices.
TOP 5 UZBEKISTAN FOODS YOU MUST TRY
- Uzbek Plov/Palov (a rice pilaf which is the national dish of Uzbekistan. They normally serve it at weddings, festivals, and other special occasions. Similar to Tajikistan, they cook it in a Kazan with similar ingredients. The meal symbolizes the generosity and hospitality of the Uzbek people).
- Shashlik (tasty skewered and grilled pieces of marinated meat like lamb, chicken beef, or even horse (kebabs). They serve this dish with Lavash (flat bread), fresh vegetables, and sometimes a yogurt-based sauce called Suzma).
- Samsa (called the pride of Uzbek people. They make these are little cakes with dough and filled with ground meat, and sometimes pumpkin, potatoes, spinach, chicken, etc. They then bake them in a special clay oven called a tandoor which gives them a special taste and aroma popular. There are more than a dozen variations of Samsas, not only in cooking techniques but also filling. These versatile cakes vary in shape, size, and taste depending on the region in Uzbekistan in which they were made).
- Obi Non (a traditional Uzbeki bread they bake in a tandoori oven, with a crispy outside and chewy inside. It is a versatile and important staple throughout the country and accompanies other dishes).
- Shurpa (a hearty soup made with lamb or beef, vegetables like carrots, onions, potatoes, and various spices and they serve it with bread).
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TOP 5 MUST-SEE SITES OF INTEREST IN TASHKENT, UZBEKISTAN
More of an unlisted, must-see site of interest are the Metro Stations in Tashkent. Besides providing transportation, they are popular with visitors. Each is uniquely designed (they disallowed videos or photos in the subway before 2018, but now there are no restrictions). The most popular stations are Bodomzor, Alisher Navo, Kosmonovtlar, and Mustaqillik. Furthermore, the only other metro stations I have seen so beautiful are in Moscow, Russia.
- The Minor Mosque and the Ankhor Canal (the largest and most luxurious mosque in Uzbekistan. It is situated on the picturesque bank of the Ankhor Canal. During a sunny day, the building shimmers in the light as though it is glowing).
- The Tashkent TV Tower (it is the tallest structure in Central Asia and twelfth-tallest in the world at a height of 375 meters. It has a bars and restaurant, and an observation deck and offers a panoramic view of the city).
- Chimgon Mountains and Charvak Lake (take a day trip with a tour company and head out of the city on a two-hour drive to experience the sheer beauty of the gorgeous mountain and reservoir. They are two of Uzbekistan’s natural treasures and most popular in the region).
- Chorsu Baazar (this is the city’s most famous marketplace with everything you can imagine…from fruits to souvenirs. The aroma of spices, food, etc., and the entire atmosphere, is vibrant. It is truly a fun place to experience and to shop. It is certainly not a tourist trap, just a true authentic shopping experience).
- Samarkand or Bukhara (take a train ride to one of Uzbekistan’s cities and enjoy a different ambience and scenery and Uzbekistan’s most gorgeous cities. The nearest city is about four hours’ high-speed-train-ride away).
SUMMARY
Uzbekistan is an amazing, country with overwhelmingly hospitable people, delicious cuisine, and many interesting UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Moreover, it is a budget-friendly country, making it a great find for backpackers and those with a small travel budget. Yes, it is one of the less conventional countries, but it offers much more than many “touristy” ones. As mentioned before, it is very safe and is especially attractive to female solo travellers, like myself. I would highly recommend visiting Uzbekistan, the country in the heart of Central Asia. Visit and Enjoy.
Minimum 15% saving available on new accommodation bookings at participating properties indicated by the “Early 2025” badge on the search results and room selection pages. Saving varies depending on the destination country, a full breakdown of discounts is detailed below: minimum 20% saving on properties in Asia and Oceania; minimum 15% saving elsewhere. Bookings must be made before 9:59 am CET on 01/04/25 for stays with check-in from 01/01/25 and check-out on or before 01/04/25. Discount applies to the cost of room only (excluding any additional fees or taxes). If you make any changes to your booking you may lose your discount and be liable for the full amount. Discount cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion except Genius discounts. Room rates labelled “Partner Offer” are excluded from this promotion. This offer is provided by the participating property and subject to availability.
Uzbekistan, the Country in the Heart of Central Asia Cont....
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