Overseas Adventure Travel - The Stans of Central Asia: Turkmenistan & Uzbekistan 2021
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YOUR O.A.T. ADVENTURE TRAVEL PLANNING GUIDE®
The Stans of Central Asia: Turkmenistan & Uzbekistan
2021
Learn how to personalize your experience on this adventure
Small Groups: 8-16 travelers—guaranteed! (average of 13)
®
Overseas Adventure Travel
The Leader in Personalized Small Group Adventures on the Road Less Traveled
1
®
Overseas Adventure Travel
347 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210
Dear Traveler,
At last, the world is opening up again for curious travel lovers like you and me. Soon, you’ll once
again be discovering the places you’ve dreamed of. In the meantime, the enclosed O.A.T. Adventure
Travel Planning Guide® should help you keep those dreams vividly alive.
Before you start dreaming, please let me reassure you that your health and safety is our number
one priority. As such, we’re requiring that all O.A.T. travelers, Trip Experience Leaders, and
coach drivers must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 at least 14 days prior to departure. Our
new, updated health and safety protocols are described inside.
The journey you’ve expressed interest in, The Stans of Central Asia: Turkmenistan & Uzbekistan,
will be an excellent way to resume your discoveries. It takes you into the true heart of the
culture, thanks to our small groups of 8-16 travelers (with an average of 13). Plus, our Central
Asian Trip Experience Leader will reveal their country’s secret treasures as only an insider can.
You can also rely on the seasoned team at our regional office in Istanbul, who are ready to help
24/7 in case any unexpected circumstances arise.
Throughout your explorations, you’ll meet local people and gain an intimate understanding of
the regional culture. During A Day in the Life of a farming village outside of Bukhara, we’ll help
make Samarkand bread and dine with local villagers for a firsthand look at what life in rural
Uzbekistan is like. And in Turkmenistan, we’ll visit an Akhal-Teke horse farm, where we’ll
talk with the owner and get a rare glimpse of these proud golden stallions that are beloved by
the nation. Plus, a portion of our proceeds goes toward the charitable efforts of Grand Circle
Foundation: inside you’ll also see how your travel dollar helps make the world a better place.
We understand that no two people are the same. That’s why more than 80% of our travelers
take advantage of the freedom to personalize their experience. Join the 78% of travelers who
extend their time abroad. Add the pre-trip extension to Tajikistan: Khujand & Dushanbe, post-
trip extension to Kyrgyzstan: Cholpon-Ata, Karakol & Bishkek and Kazakhstan: Almaty, or both of
these extensions to your Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan adventure.
I hope you find this O.A.T. Adventure Travel Planning Guide® helpful. If you have any
further questions, don’t hesitate to contact one of our Regional Adventure Counselors at
1-800-955-1925.
Warm regards,
Harriet R. Lewis
Vice Chairman
Overseas Adventure Travel
P.S. For further peace of mind, please know that we are EXTENDING our Risk-Free Booking
Policy through 12/31/21. Learn more at www.oattravel.com/risk-free-booking.
2
WHAT’S INSIDE
TRIP SUMMARY
It’s Included . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Departure Dates and Prices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Leader in Solo-Friendly Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Grand Circle Foundation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Freedom to Personalize Your Experience . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
DETAILED DAY-TO-DAY ITINERARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
ESSENTIAL TRAVEL INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Travel Documents & Entry Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Rigors, Vaccines & General Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Money Matters: Local Currency & Tipping Guidelines . . . . . . . 52
Air, Optional Tours & Staying in Touch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Packing: What to Bring & Luggage Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Climate & Average Temperatures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
About Your Destinations: Culture, Etiquette & More . . . . . . . . 69
Demographics & History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Resources: Suggested Reading & Movies . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Health & Safety Measures – Vaccines Required . . . . . . . . . . 93
MAP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
3
Lower prices than last year—a value of $1000 per couple
The Stans of Central Asia:
Turkmenistan & Uzbekistan Small Group Adventure
Uzbekistan̆¦ÖŭĞĴāłŶ̵̇ÖĿÖũĴÖłù̵̇ ŽĴĞÖũÖ̇bĞĢƑÖ̇pŽĴŽŭ̵Ά̵Turkmenistan̆ŭĞėÖðÖŶ̵
Countries: 2 Ά!ĢŶĢāŭ̆6
Small groups: 8-16 travelers—guaranteed! It’s Included
(average of 13)
• International airfare, airport transfers, • 16 small group activities
ː˗ùÖƘŭĕũŋĿ $ 5495 government taxes, fees, and airline fuel
surcharges unless you choose to make
your own air arrangements
• Explore in a small group of 8-16
travelers (average group size of 13)
Includes international airfare
Travel from only $306 a day • All land transportation and 1 • Services of 2 local O.A.T. Trip
Experience Leaders, 1 in Uzbekistan
internal flight
and 1 in Turkmenistan
ː˖ùÖƘŭĕũŋĿ $ 4195 • Accommodations for 15 nights • Gratuities for local guides, drivers, and
Without international airfare • 38 meals—16 breakfasts, 13 lunches, luggage porters
FREE Single Supplement
and 9 dinners (including 2 Home-
Hosted meals)
• 5% Frequent Traveler Credit toward
your next O.A.T. trip—an average of $484
Maximize Your
To get a richer view of the Included Features on this adventure,
Discoveries & Value watch our Trip Itinerary video at www.oattravel.com/slk2021
Optional extensions:
¦ÖıĢĴĢŭŶÖł̆bĞŽıÖłùͽ'ŽŭĞÖłðā
5 nights pre-trip from $2595
Travel from only $519 per night
bƘũėƘơŭŶÖł̆!Ğŋķťŋł̟ŶÖ̇bÖũÖĴŋķͽ
ĢŭĞĴāĴÖłùbÖơÖĴĞŭŶÖł̆ķĿÖŶƘ
7 nights post-trip from $2695
Travel from only $385 per night
Uzbek boy with bread,
-Samarkand, Uzbekistan
The Stans of Central Asia: Turkmenistan & Uzbekistan
4
The Stans of Central Asia: RISK-FREE BOOKING POLICY: RESERVE WITH
CONFIDENCE—NOW THROUGH 12/31/21
Turkmenistan & Uzbekistan We will waive any change fees if you transfer to another departure date for
any reason—up until 24 hours prior to departure.
2021 Dates & Prices See details at www.oattravel.com/riskfree-booking.
MAY 4-13;
SEPTEMBER- MAY 18-29;
DEPART FROM APRIL OCTOBER JUNE NOVEMBER
New York $5595 $5795 $6195 $5495
Washington, DC $5695 $5895 $6295 $5595
Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles,
$5795 $5995 $6395 $5695
Miami, San Francisco
Detroit, Houston, Minneapolis, Phoenix $5995 $6195 $6595 $5895
Dallas, Denver, Orlando, Philadelphia,
$6095 $6295 $6695 $5995
Portland, San Diego, Seattle
Tampa $6195 $6395 $6795 $6095
Additional departure cities are available. Upgrade to Business Class may be available for the international portion of your flight. Call for details.
MAY 4-13; MAY 18-29;
APRIL SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER JUNE NOVEMBER
Without international airfare $4295 $4495 $4595 $4195
SLK2021
Critical Air Information
Below, you’ll find the East and West Coast cities with the longest flight times. For more information on average flight times
based on your gateway city, visit www.oattravel.com/slk2021.
GATEWAY DEPART RETURN
Hours Typical Connection Hours Typical Connection
Philadelphia (East Coast) 27 hrs 2 25 hrs 2
Portland (West Coast) 30 hrs 2 32 hrs 2
Prices are per person. Airfare prices include government taxes, fees, and airline fuel surcharges. All prices and availability are effective as of the date of this
publication, and are subject to change without notice. Standard Terms & Conditions apply, please visit our website: www.oattravel.com/tc. Every effort has been
made to produce this information accurately. We reserve the right to correct errors.
For specific departure dates, current availability, and detailed pricing, visit www.oattravel.com/slk2021pricing
SAVE UP TO 10% WITH FREE SINGLE SUPPLEMENTS
OUR GOOD BUY PLAN SHARE YOUR LOVE OF TRAVEL
We offer FREE Single Supplements on all
New travelers you refer will instantly save
The earlier you reserve your departure of our adventures and pre- and post-trip $100, and you’ll earn increasing rewards—
and pay in full, the more you’ll save—up extensions. up to a FREE trip!
to 10%—plus, you’ll lock in your price. Each departure has limited solo space
For details, visit www.oattravel.com/va
For details, visit www.oattravel.com/gbd available—call today to reserve.
Publication Date 12/28/20
Information & Reservations 1-800-955-1925 www.oattravel.com/slk2021
5
Leader in Solo-Friendly
Travel
Solo traveler with young women in Sarajevo, Bosnia
The leader in solo-friendly travel for Americans—by the numbers
More than 50,000 15,000 single More than 90% of 51 exclusive women’s
solo travelers joined us spaces with a FREE solo women travelers departures featured on
in the past two years— or low-cost Single rated their adventure 25 of our most popular
on their own or with a Supplement in 2021—a excellent adventures—10 of
friend or relative 76% increase from 2019 which are single-only
departures
6
WHO IS A SOLO TRAVELER? EXCLUSIVE WOMEN’S DEPARTURES
Traveling solo doesn’t necessarily mean traveling alone— There’s something special about traveling in a group of
some travelers opt to bring a friend or family member just women. Maybe it’s the camaraderie and friendships
along for the adventure, sharing accommodations and that form when women meet other women who share
discoveries. Others prefer exploring on their own, with their passion for travel. Or maybe it’s how, in a group
the security and camaraderie group travel provides. of their peers, women feel supported and confident
However you choose to see the world, you can feel to take risks and try new things as they explore. In
confident when exploring with the leader in solo- recognition of the special solidarity that often develops
friendly travel among our women travelers, we are offering 51 exclusive
women’s departures of our popular adventures. These
FREE SINGLE SUPPLEMENTS 2021 departures provide intrepid women travelers
an opportunity to connect with one another while
We’re committed to supporting our solo travelers who
experiencing local culture in a variety of destinations
want to explore the world, so we offer limited FREE
including Israel, Morocco, and more. Alongside a female
Single Supplements on all Small Group Adventures,
Trip Experience Leader on most of these adventures, you’ll
every trip extension, and our Stopovers, too. Plus, we’ve
delve into the heart and soul of your destination—from a
increased the number of single spaces to 18,000 on 2021
woman’s point of view. Together, you’ll share meaningful
departures—a 23% increase from 2019. See details at
moments, whether you’re helping with a student’s lessons
www.oattravel.com/solo.
at a local school, engaging in a spontaneous conversation
with a female artisan as you browse through a craft
YOU’LL ALWAYS FEEL SAFE AND SECURE market during your free time, and beyond.
With 36 regional offices around the world, your safety
and security is our first priority. Our regional associates
know your adventure inside and out, and are ready to help
should the need arise. And a local Trip Experience Leader Recent Awards
is there to ensure you always feel part of the group.
They’re great at organizing activities to help develop
camaraderie among all group members.
TRAVEL AMONG FRIENDS
Small groups of 8-16 travelers (average of 13) are ideal
for connecting with fellow travelers. Since three out of
eight travelers explore with us solo, you’re sure to forge USA Today “Best Tours”
special bonds as you experience the world. 10Best Readers’ Presented by
Choice Awards Solo Traveler
Solo travelers at Nijo Castle, Kyoto, Japan
7
Changing People's Lives
One village, one school, one person at a time
Dear Traveler,
In 1992 we established Grand Circle Foundation, an entity
of the Lewis Family Foundation, as a means to give back to
the world that had already given us so much. We’ve pledged
or donated more than $200 million worldwide to support
the education of young people and the preservation of
international treasures and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Of course, none of this would be possible without your
help. A portion of our proceeds is donated to Grand Circle
Foundation—so just as your life will be enriched by the
discoveries you’ll make on your journey, you’ll also help to
enrich the lives of the people you’ll meet along the way.
Thank you for traveling with us, and for helping to change
people’s lives.
Love and peace,
Harriet R. Lewis
Chair
Grand Circle Foundation
Students at St. Mary's Primary School,
Hwange, Zimbabwe
8
GIVING BACK TO THE WORLD WE TRAVEL
By bringing cultures together and teaching us about
our shared humanity, travel has the power to change
the world, one heart at a time. When determining how
we can help the people, schools and communities we
visit, we always ask for the wisdom of local leadership
and the involvement of the community to ensure we
are providing what is needed. We currently support 109
schools and organizations in 59 countries.
JOIN OUR GENEROUS TRAVELERS
We consider each and every one of our travelers to
be partners in our worldwide giving. Some travelers,
however, are so inspired by the schools and villages
they visit, they are compelled to give more. In fact,
our travelers have donated more than $1 million in
2019 alone.
Giving Back in
BETTER OUR OWN COMMUNITIES— Different Ways
ALL AROUND THE WORLD Support from the Grand Circle Foundation takes many
In addition to the destinations where we travel, we forms—and is based on what's needed most. In one
strive to better the communities where we work—from school alone in Tanzania, we have completed projects
our headquarters in Boston to our 36 offices around ranging from providing a new water system and building a
the world. In Boston, more than 99% of our associates new girl's dormitory to installing a solar powered electric
participate in community service each year. Worldwide, fence to prevent elephants from wandering through
nearly all of our offices organize annual community the school grounds. And in Morocco, we partnered
service events of their own. with the Imik Smik Women’s Center of Aït Benhaddou
after learning about the efforts of the 13 women who
wanted a place built where they could gather together
to develop new skills to improve their lives, and gain
some independence in this traditionally male-dominated
region. We were thrilled to provide funds that enabled
construction to begin on this worthy project.
How you can help
• Donate to a school or village that inspired you during
your travels. Because we charge no administration
fee, 100% of your donation will be used to help change
Learn more about the many ways people’s lives.
we help change lives together at
• To learn more about ongoing Foundation projects,
www.grandcirclefoundation.org you can sign up for our weekly e-newsletter, the Inside
Scoop, at www.oattravel.com/community/the-inside-
scoop. When you do, you’ll not only receive updates
on Grand Circle Foundation, but the latest news and
discoveries on all things Grand Circle and Overseas
Adventure Travel.
9
Freedom to Personalize Your Experience
Your Choice, Your Adventure, Your Way
We recommend you spend extra time in a destination to truly make your adventure everything you’ve ever dreamed about—in fact, 85% of our
travelers are personalizing their experience in more than 85 countries. Call us at 1-800-955-1925 to discuss personalizing your adventure
today or visit us online at www.oattravel.com/personalize-slk2021.
āƩłāÈŋŽũRùāÖķdāłėŶĞŋĕŶÖƘ̝arrive early,
' • Stay overnight (or for a few days) in Istanbul, a common connecting
stay later & more city on this adventure, or in a destination of your choice
Extending your time in a destination can improve your overall travel Please note: Our Adventure Specialists can help you plan your airfare if
experience—and allow you to seek out even more eye-opening cultural you’d like to “break away,” however since this option is completely on your
interactions. Your local Trip Experience Leader will help to ensure you’re own, you will need to plan your own accommodations, meals, tours, and
getting the personalized experiences you’re looking for. With their transfers.
unmatched understanding of Central Asian culture, it’s no surprise to Back-to-Back Adventures: 90% of travelers who combined two
you that 94% of our travelers rate their Trip Experience Leader excellent. trips anywhere in the world rated it excellent
From extending your travels—whether with us or on your own—to If you’re already overseas, why not see more of the world and avoid
building in time to ensure a smooth beginning and end to your Small another international flight? Plus, you’ll save $250-$350 per person
Group Adventure, the choice is yours. Here are some of your options: when you reserve two trips right after one another.
Maximize Your Time & Value: 55% of travelers take an extension
ũĢƑÖŶāùƑāłŶŽũāŭ̆¦ũÖƑāķĢłÖłāƗóķŽŭĢƑāėũŋŽťŋĕÖŭ
Trip extensions give you more time, allowing you to get refreshed and
acclimated before your adventure begins or before your return to the U.S. ĕāƒÖŭ˓
On this adventure, you have two extensions to choose from, including Reserve an exclusive departure with your friends and family. It’s
Tajikistan: Khujand & Dushanbe—which 92% of our travelers have simple: You choose the people you travel with, the departure date, and
rated excellent—and Kyrgyzstan: Cholpon-Ata, Karakol & Bishkek and the size of your group. O.A.T. does the rest.
Kazakhstan: Almaty—which 96% of our travelers have rated excellent.
“Break Away” Options: 30% of travelers spend more time abroad ĢũzťŶĢŋłŭ̆mŋũāŶĞÖł˔ˏͮŋĕŶũÖƑāķāũŭóŽŭŶŋĿĢơā
Before or after your main adventure or trip extension, “break away”
ŶĞāĢũƪĢėĞŶŭ
anywhere you’d like to go to do more exploring entirely on your • Choose your departure city and airline
own. Extend your time abroad with the following options: • Depart from one city and return to another
• Spend more time in Tashkent before, or in Ashgabat after, • Upgrade your seat or choose a specific meal option
your adventure
Haji Yaqub Mosque, Dushanbe, Tajikistan Nomad family, Ala Archa, Kyrgyzstan
The Stans of Central Asia: Turkmenistan & Uzbekistan
10Overseas
Adventure Travel SM
Since 1978
The Stans of Central Asia:
Turkmenistan & Uzbekistan
2021
18-Day Small Group Adventure
EXTEND YOUR TRIP
PRE-TRIP
Tajikistan: Khujand & Dushanbe
POST-TRIP
Highlights of Kyrgyzstan & Kazakhstan
Your Day-to-Day Itinerary
11OVERSEAS ADVENTURE TRAVEL
Overseas Adventure Travel, founded in 1978, is America’s leading adventure travel company. The New
York Times, Condé Nast Traveler, The Los Angeles Times, Travel + Leisure, The Wall Street Journal, US News
& World Report, and others have recommended O.A.T. trips. But our most impressive reviews come from
our customers: Thousands of travelers have joined our trips, and 95% of them say they’d gladly travel
with us again, and recommend us to their friends.
A WORD ABOUT ADVENTURE TRAVEL
Our adventure in Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan is designed for people who want a different kind of
travel experience. We seek out unusual experiences, in out-of-the-way places where ordinary tours
don’t go. Unlike most group tours, ours is a small group experience that seeks to provide a more
intimate and up-close view of life in these Central Asian countries. Traveling with no more than 15
others, you will find that camaraderie is an integral part of the experience.
Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan are developing countries, with poor infrastructure and many dirt roads.
The overall quality of travel services is not what you would find in the United States or Europe. Travel
and schedules here can be sometimes unpredictable, and there may be times when we cannot follow
your published itinerary exactly. The sequence of places visited may vary. In these cases we ask that you
bring an open mind and a sense of humor. We are experienced in responding to changing circumstances
on the spot, and will do whatever it takes to ensure your comfort and satisfaction.
To best enjoy this trip, bring an open curiosity, an adventurous spirit and a willingness to adapt and
make the best of every situation. After all, that is the definition of adventure.
INCLUDED IN YOUR PRICE
» Explore in a small group of 8-16 travelers » 16 small group activities
(average group size of 13) » Services of 2 local O.A.T. Trip Experience
» International airfare, airport transfers, Leaders, 1 in Uzbekistan and 1 in
government taxes, fees, and airline fuel Turkmenistan
surcharges unless you choose to make your » Gratuities for local guides, drivers, and
own air arrangements luggage porters
» All land transportation and 1 internal flight » 5% Frequent Traveler Credit toward your
» Accommodations for 15 nights next O.A.T. trip—an average of $484
» 38 meals—16 breakfasts, 13 lunches, and 9
dinners (including 2 Home-Hosted meals)
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
12WHAT THIS TRIP IS LIKE
PACING hours. You may also experience difficulties
» 6 locations in 17 days with two overland during internal flights as the Turkmenistan
drives of up to 9 hours and Uzbekistan airports are very crowded
and arrival and departure times can be
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS erratic. Traveling to this region of Central
» Not appropriate for travelers using Asia can be challenging, but the rewards
wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility aids make these potential difficulties well worth
the effort.
» You must be able to walk up to 3 miles
unassisted each day and feel comfortable
ACCOMMODATIONS & FACILITIES
walking up and down stairs
» All accommodations are hotel-standard,
» We reserve the right for Trip Experience with a variety of amenities and personal
Leaders to restrict participation, or in some service, as well as private baths
circumstances send travelers home, if their
limitations impact the group’s experience
CLIMATE
» Due to the varied geography of the
destinations on this adventure, you will
experience a wide range of temperatures
and weather conditions; summer
temperatures in Ashgabat can approach
100°F, but spring and fall can be as cold as
50°F at night
» Spring and fall nighttime temperatures can
be even colder (30°F) on the optional trip
extensions
TERRAIN & TRANSPORTATION
» Travel on city streets, paved and unpaved
roads, with several walking tours along
uneven streets
» We drive overland in an air-conditioned
coach and air-conditioned train to Bukhara
FLIGHT INFORMATION
» Travel times from the U.S. to Uzbekistan
will be 18-32 hours with a connection in
Istanbul, Turkey. Flights typically arrive in
Tashkent in the middle of the night and you
may arrive at your hotel in the pre-dawn
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
13The Stans of Central Asia:
Turkmenistan & Uzbekistan
YOUR DETAILED ITINERARY
BEGIN YOUR ADVENTURE WITH AN OPTIONAL PRE-TRIP EXTENSION
5 nights in Tajikistan: Khujand & Dushanbe
Day 1 Depart U.S. Day 5 Overland to Khujand • Meet
artisans in Istaravshan
Day 2 Arrive in Istanbul, Turkey • Fly to
Dushanbe, Tajikistan Day 6 Explore Khujand • Excursion to
Arbob Cultural Palace
Day 3 Explore Dushanbe
Day 7 Overland to Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Day 4 Discover Dushanbe • Local
interaction
Day 1 Depart U.S. Dinner: On your own. Your Trip Experience
Leader can provide suggestions.
Afternoon/Evening: Depart the U.S. for your
flight to Tashkent, Uzbekistan, via Istanbul, Evening: The evening is free for your own
Turkey. The particulars of your arrival overseas discoveries, or perhaps you’d like to rest after
will be detailed with your flight itinerary and your travels.
airline tickets.
Day 3 Tashkent
Day 2 Arrive in Istanbul, Turkey • Fly to • Destination: Tashkent
Tashkent, Uzbekistan • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Destination: Tashkent • Accommodations: Lotte City Hotel or similar
Afternoon: You’ll arrive in Istanbul, where Early Morning: About 1am (depending on
you’ll board your connecting flight to Tashkent, your flight) you will be met at the airport by
Uzbekistan. Depending on your flight schedule, an O.A.T. representative and transfer 15-20
you’ll arrive late on Day 2 and transfer to your minutes by van to your hotel, located in the
hotel or very early on Day 3. Travelers who took center of historic Tashkent. Upon arrival,
our pre-trip to Tajikistan: Khujand & Dushanbe you will check in and receive your room
will arrive in Tashkent either very early this assignments. We spend two nights in our
morning or late this afternoon for the last day Tashkent hotel. Depending on where we stay,
of their pre-trip extension. our centrally-located hotel may feature an
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
14elegant restaurant, bar and lounge, and gym. Evening: We’ll drive back to the hotel after
Your rooms will likely include a courtyard or dinner around 8:30pm, or you can choose to
opera house view, double bed, and a private make more discoveries on your own.
bathroom.
Freedom To Explore: During your two days in
Breakfast: Served buffet-style at the hotel Tashkent, you have the freedom to explore this
beginning at 7am, with Central Asian and ancient Central Asian city on your own during
American options. your free time. Below are a few recommended
options for independent explorations:
Morning: The morning is yours to rest from
your day of travel before exploring Tashkent • Explore the Museum of Victims of Political
this afternoon. You’ll meet your small group Repression: Divided into ten parts, this
around 12:30pm for an orientation walk and museum tells the history of the Uzbek people
Welcome Briefing held at the hotel. killed or imprisoned by the government
during the time of the Soviet Union.
Lunch: Around 2pm at a local restaurant in
Tashkent, with traditional Uzbek dishes that • How to get there: A 10- to 15-minute taxi
often include rice, vegetables, meats, and are ride, about $1 USD.
made with fresh, local ingredients. • Hours: 9am-5pm, Tuesday-Sunday.
• Cost: About $7 USD.
Afternoon: Around 3pm, we’ll enjoy a walk
• Discover the State Art Museum of
to Independence Square, which represents a
Uzbekistan: As one of the largest museums
symbol of freedom for the Uzbek people who
in Central Asia, the State Art Museum
declared their independence from Russia in
houses unique works of Eastern and Western
1991. The square is home to the Shahidlar
European art. Founded in 1918 with a
Xotirasi Memorial Complex, a blue domed
collection of 500 pieces, today the museum
rotunda and fountain that pays tribute to the
showcases around 50,000 pieces.
innocent shahid (martyrs) who were killed
during Stalin’s purges. We’ll also visit the • How to get there: A 15- to 20-minute walk.
Crying Mother Monument, constructed in 1999 • Hours: 10am-5pm, Tuesday-Sunday.
to honor the 400,000 Uzbek soldiers who died • Cost: About $7 USD.
in World War II. • Enjoy a show at the Alisher Navoi Opera and
Ballet Theatre: One of the leading centers
After taking in the grand architecture of the
for performing arts in the region, the theater
Alisher Navoi Theatre, we’ll head back to our
seats 1,400 and has a repertoire of opera,
hotel around 4:30pm for free time on our own
ballet, theater, and musical performances.
before dinner. Perhaps you’ll explore the many
underground stations along the Tashkent • How to get there: A 5- to 10-minute walk.
Metro—each one different with ornate mosaics, • Hours: Shows begin after 5pm, daily.
tiled archways, and domed plazas. Please note: Although performances are
scheduled daily, occasionally they do not take
Dinner: Our group will depart the hotel at place. To avoid disappointment, travelers
around 6:15pm to enjoy a Welcome Dinner of wishing to see a performance are advised to
regional specialties at a local restaurant. contact their Trip Experience Leader prior
to their adventure so that tickets can be
pre-reserved.
• Cost: About $10-$30 USD.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
15Day 4 Explore Tashkent • Controversial of Uzbekistan, which traces the history of the
Topic: Life in Uzbekistan more than 100 ethnic groups that make up the
country today.
post-Soviet Union •
Visit Chorsu Bazaar Around 2:30pm, we’ll regroup and drive about
• Destination: Tashkent 30 minutes to the Savitsky Karakalpakstan Art
• Included Meals: Breakfast Museum in nearby Nukus. The museum hosts
• Accommodations: Lotte City Hotel or similar the second largest collection of avant-garde
Russian art in the world and is recognized
Exclusive O.A.T. Activity: This afternoon, as one of the premier art institutions in the
we’ll meet with a local woman to learn more Eurasia region. Today, it will provide the setting
about the Controversial Topic of life in for our discussion of the Controversial Topic
Uzbekistan (a former Soviet state) after the of life in Uzbekistan after the Soviet Union’s
collapse of the Soviet Union. As we’ll learn, collapse.
many Uzbek residents feel independence isn’t
all it’s made out to be. Read more about this In 1991, after some seventy years of Soviet rule,
discussion below. the Republic of Uzbekistan officially became an
independent nation. In the West, the fall of the
Breakfast: Served buffet-style at the hotel Soviet Union was celebrated: communism had
beginning at 7am, with Central Asian and failed, and a new era of freedom and democracy
American options. was ushered in to the many countries behind
Morning: Around 8:30am we’ll drive about the Iron Curtain. In Uzbekistan, independence
15 minutes to Tashkent’s Old Town, where has brought sweeping changes to every aspect
we’ll explore Barak Khan Madrassah, a of private and public life—but as we’ll learn,
historical monument that has become a not all of these changes have been welcome. In
center for local artists and craftsmen. We’ll fact, certain Uzbeks are even nostalgic for the
also get to see Islam’s most holy relic, one of Soviet days of old. To learn more about this split
the world’s oldest Korans, and visit Chorsu in public opinion, we’ll meet with Marinika
Bazaar, Tashkent’s famous green-domed Babanazarova. Ms. Babanazarova, 65, is the
market featuring acres of spices, produce, and former director of Savitsky Karakalpakstan Art
traditional crafts. We’ll head back to the hotel Museum. She served as director during both
at around 12:30pm. the Soviet and post-Soviet periods, and thus
experienced the changes brought about by
Lunch: You’re free to enjoy lunch on your own. independence firsthand.
Your Trip Experience Leader can recommend
local restaurants to try. Or, join them for a visit To understand why the split opinion, it also
to the famed Central Asian Plov Centre, which helps to understand the Soviet system of
specializes in plov, the savory Uzbek dish made government that reigned in Uzbekistan from
of rice, meat, and spices. 1920. The U.S.S.R. controlled all of its satellite
states (including Uzbekistan) tightly, with a
Afternoon: You’ll have a couple of hours of centralized government based in Moscow. All
free time to explore Tashkent on your own. You major decisions, legislation, infrastructure,
may choose to join your Trip Experience Leader and public services were outsourced to Kremlin
on a visit to the History Museum of the People officials in Moscow. While some viewed this
as oppressive, it also brought new technology
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
16and modern ways of thinking to many of the Evening: The evening is yours for independent
more rural, developing states. It also created explorations. Perhaps you’ll head to Broadway
somewhat of an expertise vacuum, with Alley, where you can hunt (and bargain) for
lower-level Uzbek officials taking orders from local crafts, artwork, and souvenirs.
higher-ranking officials in Moscow.
This proved problematic after independence.
Day 5 Journey to Samarkand • Visit
Suddenly, after decades of relying on the mausoleum of Tamerlane
U.S.S.R., Uzbekistan was left on its own with • Destination: Samarkand
little experience in how to successfully run a • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
government and manage a developing country. • Accommodations: Sultan Boutique Hotel
Since 1991, the Uzbek government has worked or similar
hard to improve the economy, increase access
Activity Note: Today, we will drive about six
to education, and bolster its national health
hours by bus to Samarkand, making stops along
systems. And in many ways, these efforts are
the way for bathroom breaks and to stretch
working: A majority of Uzbek residents say
our legs.
their lives are better now than they would
be if they were still under Soviet rule. But Breakfast: Served buffet-style at the hotel
notably, most Uzbeks who say this are between beginning at 7am, with Central Asian and
the ages of 15 and 44—meaning they either American options.
weren’t alive or were very young during the
Soviet period. In fact, Uzbeks over 65 are more Morning: We depart our hotel by bus around
than three times as likely as their younger 8am to begin our journey to Samarkand, one
counterparts to say that their lives were better of the oldest cities in the world. Established
before independence. during the middle of the first century BC,
Samarkand—like many Silk Road cities—was
During the hour or so that we spend with her, conquered and claimed a number of times,
Ms. Babanazarova will share her thoughts on including by the troops of Alexander the
Soviet rule, and how her life and career changed Great, the Arab Caliphate, and Genghis Khan.
after the the collapse for about 20 minutes. This ancient city known for mosques and
We’ll also have the chance to ask her our mausoleums has been at the crossroads of
questions for about 40 minutes, a rather rare diverse cultures and religion since the eighth
experience for Westerners to learn about life century BC. Today, Samarkand is divided into
behind the Iron Curtain. Experiences like this the old and new city, which has become an
are made possible because of O.A.T.’s strong intersection of historical monuments, cultural
regional connections. centers, shops, and educational institutions.
We’ll finish up at the museum around 4pm and Lunch: At a local restaurant in Samarkand
make the return drive back to our hotel. The around 1:45pm featuring local cuisine.
rest of your afternoon and evening are yours to
do as you’d like. Afternoon: We’ll continue our overland journey
and check into our hotel at about 3pm. Upon
Dinner: On your own—your Trip Experience arrival, we’ll have a couple of hours to relax
Leader can provide recommendations. or explore Samarkand on our own. Depending
on where we stay, our hotel will likely feature
amenities such as wireless Internet and a sun
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
17terrace. Typical rooms may include a private diversity of this ancient city. If you visit both
bathroom, in-room safe, and refrigerator. churches, plan to spend about 2 hours total,
Around 5pm, we’ll depart for a tour of Gur including a 5-minute walk between them.
Emir, the mausoleum of conqueror Tamerlane
• How to get there: A 10- to 20-minute walk.
and his descendants. During our visit, we’ll
• Hours: 9am-7pm, daily.
also note how Gur Emir features architectural
• Cost: Free.
components that inspired the Taj Mahal. We’ll
depart Gur Emir around 6:15pm for dinner. Day 6 Explore Samarkand •
Dinner: Around 6:30pm, we’ll enjoy dinner at a Visit Shah-i-Zinda necropolis •
local restaurant with regional options available. Home-Hosted Dinner
• Destination: Samarkand
Evening: We’ll return to our hotel around
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
8:15pm and the rest of the evening is yours
to enjoy. You can retire to your room for the • Accommodations: Sultan Boutique Hotel
night or ask your Trip Experience Leader for or similar
recommendations. Exclusive O.A.T. Activity: This evening
we’ll venture into the home of a family in
Freedom To Explore: During your three days
Samarkand, where we’ll enjoy a Home-Hosted
in Samarkand, you have the freedom to explore
Dinner. This is a special opportunity afforded to
this ancient Silk Road city on your own during
us by our small group size and made by possible
your free time. Below are a few recommended
by the regional connections of our local Trip
options for independent explorations:
Experience Leaders. During our shared meal,
• Experience the memorial complex of Imam you’ll learn more about daily life in Uzbekistan
al-Bukhari: Visit one of the most revered from these residents, and take part in the
pilgrimage sites in Islam, the al-Bukhari’s customs and culinary traditions of the region.
mausoleum, along with other spiritual build- Read more about this experience below.
ings and an educational training center.
Breakfast: Served buffet-style at the hotel
• How to get there: A 20- to 25-minute taxi beginning at 8am, with Central Asian and
ride, about $5 USD. American options.
• Hours: 9am-7pm, daily.
• Cost: About $3 USD. Morning: At around 9am, our group will depart
for a city tour of Samarkand. Our discoveries
• Immerse yourself in Uzbek art at the
will include Registan Square, where we’ll walk
Hunarmand craft center for diverse arts. Here
to the Old Quarter to view its hidden courtyards
you’ll find the work of local textile makers,
and tangled alleyways. We’ll stroll through the
ceramics artisans, painters, woodcarv-
expansive courtyard of marble flagstone at the
ers, and more.
Bibi-Khanum Mosque—a structure that legend
• How to get there: A 15- to 20-minute walk. says was a gift to Tamerlane by one of his wives.
• Hours: 9am-7pm, daily. We’ll also have free time to explore the Siab
• Cost: Free. Bazaar, where fruit and vegetables grown from
• Visit two of Samarkand’s largest churches— the rich soil of the Zarafshan Valley are sold in
Russian Orthodox and Roman Catholic—to a colorful market. Around 12:45pm, we’ll take a
get a further glimpse into the religious 15-minute bus ride to a local restaurant.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
18Lunch: Around 1pm, we’ll have lunch at a local salads, and for dessert, a kek—an Uzbeck cake
restaurant, featuring typical Uzbek dishes. made with honey and condensed milk. As you
dine, you’ll get to know your hosts—what
Afternoon: We’ll depart the restaurant around
their lives are like, what they do for work,
1:45pm to drive to Shah-i-Zinda, a towering
what challenges they face. You may take this
necropolis where a cousin of the prophet
opportunity to ask them any questions you have
Muhammad is buried. The name of the tomb
about Uzbek traditions, politics, and religion.
translates to “Tomb of the Alive King,”
You might even share a little bit about what
which refers to its original shrine and what is
brought you to this part of the world. This is
likely the grave of Qusam ibn-Abbas, who is
an excellent (and rare) opportunity to connect
said to have brought Islam to the area in the
with locals one-on-one, and is made possible
seventh century.
by O.A.T.’s regional connections and by our
Then, we’ll return to our hotel around 3:30pm small group size.
for some free time. Perhaps you’ll enjoy
Evening: We’ll return to the hotel around
a wine tasting and tour of a local winery,
8:30pm where you may retire to your room to
where eight wines, balsams, and cognacs are
rest before tomorrow’s explorations.
produced on site.
Around 6:15pm, we’ll meet back up at our Day 7 Samarkand • Controversial Topic:
hotel and board our bus for a 15-minute drive Arranged marriages in Uzbekistan
to reach the home of a local family. There, with two local women • Hike in the
we’ll participate in what many travelers Gissar Mountains
describe as a highlight of their adventure: a
• Destination: Samarkand
Home-Hosted Dinner. To ensure you have
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
an intimate and authentic experience, we’ll
break into even smaller groups of no more • Accommodations: Sultan Boutique Hotel
than 5 travelers and visit different homes. Each or similar
family will be different, but all are likely to Exclusive O.A.T. Activity: Today’s discoveries
live in single-family homes and have multiple include an enlightening conversation with two
generations living under one roof together. local women about the Controversial Topic of
This is a unique opportunity to learn more arranged marriage in Uzbekistan. We’ll speak
about life in the region—so come hungry for candidly about how this cultural tradition has
your home-cooked meal, and bring plenty of been falling out of favor since the end of Soviet
questions for your generous hosts. rule, and hear personal perspectives of what life
is like for married women in Uzbekistan. Read
Dinner: Upon arrival at our separate homes
more about this experience below.
around 6:30pm, we’ll be welcomed inside
and given a tour. Then, we’ll all sit down Activity Note: We’ll spend two hours this
together for a meal of home-cooked cuisine morning hiking over uneven and sometimes
and cross-cultural exchange. A typical Uzbek steep terrain along trails in the Gissar
dinner starts with a selection of snacks and Mountains. Travelers who do not wish to
nibbles such as dried fruit, nuts, and small participate in this hike may stay back at the
sweets. Then, depending on what your host hotel and enjoy a free morning to explore
family chooses to cook, you’ll likely share on your own.
a traditional stew, prepared vegetables and
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
19Breakfast: Served buffet-style at the hotel arranged marriage has become increasingly
beginning at 7am, with Central Asian and unpopular; today, a majority of Uzbek couples,
American options. especially those living in urban areas, have
chosen their spouses because of love instead of
Morning: Our small group will depart the hotel
family arrangements.
at 8:30am and drive approximately 40 minutes
outside Samarkand to the foothills of the Gissar Today, there is great debate about the role
Mountains. We’ll set off on a hike that will take of arranged marriage in Uzbekistan, and
us along shepherd trails to enjoy the verdant we’ll hear both sides during our hour-long
mountain scenery. We’ll break up our journey conversation with two local women. First,
by enjoying a cup of tea on the trail. Our hike we’ll speak to a woman who was wed to her
concludes at Ohilik, a small mountain village, husband in an arranged marriage when she
where we may get to spend some time engaging was 19 years old. Now in her 40s, the pair are
with the locals before returning to Samarkand. still together, and our speaker will offer her
We’ll pick up the rest of our group at the hotel firsthand perspective about the rewards and
around 12:45pm to depart by bus for lunch. challenges of living in an arranged relationship.
While the road has not always been easy—being
Lunch: At a local restaurant featuring local
absorbed into a new family and living with
cuisine around 1pm.
in-laws required some adjustment—she and
Afternoon: We’ll depart lunch around 2:15pm her husband have nonetheless lived a rich and
for the 15-minute drive back to our hotel, fulfilling life together, in which she has been
arriving at around 2:30pm. Upon arrival, able to pursue her own career goals.
we’ll have some free to pursue independent
Then, we’ll get another perspective when we
discoveries. Perhaps you’ll elect to explore the
meet a woman in her 20s who married for
collections at the Samarkand History Museum
love—over the objections of her family. We’ll
or visit the Ulugh Beg Observatory, one of the
hear her story of how she and her husband
most advanced observatories of the ancient
defied cultural expectations to forge their
Islamic world, dating back to the 1420s. The
bond, and about the challenges faced by other
observatory was destroyed in 1449 by religious
young women like her who must overcome
fanatics but was rediscovered in 1908 during an
obstacles to marry the partners that they love.
archaeological excavation of the site.
Our speaker is also a university graduate and a
Shortly before 5pm, we’ll take a 15-minute teacher; she’ll speak with us about how many
drive to a local school to meet with two of her female peers are striving to achieve
Uzbek women for a conversation about a an education and lead a career-driven life,
Controversial Topic: arranged marriage in and about the resistance they often face from
Uzbekistan, and how cultural attitudes toward their family and more conservative factions
marriage and the role of women in society have in society.
changed over time.
Our conversation will offer valuable firsthand
Traditionally, marriages in Uzbekistan have insight into the thorny subject of arranged
been arranged in advance by the families of the marriage in Uzbekistan. Some within the
bride and groom—girls and boys were often country, especially in rural regions, still hold
paired off and married before they turned 20. to the old ways. Proponents point out that
Since the end of Soviet rule in 1991, however, arranged couples benefit more strongly from
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
20the wisdom and guidance of their families to Morning: We’ll depart the hotel around 9am
build a more stable relationship—arranged and head to the train station for a 1.5-hour
marriages have only a 4% divorce rate. Critics, journey to Bukhara. After our train pulls into
however, claim that arranged marriages the station at Bukhara shortly before 11:30am,
deprive women of choice and force them into we’ll take about a 15-minute taxi ride to
traditional submissive gender roles—many our hotel. Our Bukhara hotel resides within
arranged brides are expected to deliver a child a UNESCO World Heritage Site of the city,
within the first year of marriage. and the building retains its historic charm
with its wood-carved ceilings and original
Our two speakers will each spend about 10
wall paintings. Typical rooms may include a
minutes sharing their points of view, and
television, mini bar, wireless Internet, and a
we’ll then have about 40 minutes of open
private bathroom. Before we check in to our
conversation to ask questions of our own.
rooms, we’ll set off on a 30-minute orientation
While our guests are members of different
walk of the area, which will end at a nearby
generations, both were born in Uzbekistan,
restaurant.
and can offer unique perspectives of how
expectations for young women in this country Lunch: Around 12:30pm at a local restaurant in
have affected the trajectory of their lives. Bukhara, with regional cuisine.
Following our enlightening conversation, we’ll Afternoon: At about 1:45pm, we’ll walk back
board our bus and drive about 15 minutes back to the hotel and check in to our rooms. Then,
to our hotel, arriving around 6:15pm. You have we’ll have a couple of hours to settle into our
the remainder of the day free for your own rooms or to head out for some independent
discoveries. exploring of this ancient holy city. Around
5pm, we’ll begin a walking tour of the city at
Dinner: On your own this evening. You can
Lyab-i-Khauz, an ensemble of madrassahs and
ask your Trip Experience Leader for dining
historical buildings built around a quiet plaza in
recommendations.
the shade of mulberry trees, often frequented
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the by tea-sipping, chess-playing Uzbek locals.
rest of your evening as you wish, whether We’ll also see Bukhara’s famous domed
you want to retire to your room to rest before bazaars, a series of ancient arcades occupied by
tomorrow’s discoveries or take in the views on money changers, hat makers, rug merchants,
a stroll through the city. jewelry vendors, and more. Our tour concludes
at around 6:15pm, and then we’ll take a
15-minute walk to a local restaurant.
Day 8 Train ride to Bukhara • Walking tour
of Bukhara Dinner: At a local restaurant around 6:30pm
• Destination: Bukhara featuring a selection of Central Asian dishes.
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Evening: After dinner, we’ll take a 15-minute
• Accommodations: Amelia Boutique Hotel walk back to our hotel, arriving around 8pm.
or similar The rest of the night is free to strike out on
Breakfast: Served buffet-style in our hotel your own or retire to your room before our
beginning at 7am, with Central Asian and full day of exploring Bukhara tomorrow.
American options.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
21Perhaps you’d like to relax in one of the oldest Day 9 Full-day tour of Bukhara • Explore
running hammams (spas) in the world at Ark Citadel
Hammomi Kord.
• Destination: Bukhara
Freedom To Explore: During your three days • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
in Bukhara, you have the freedom to explore • Accommodations: Amelia Boutique Hotel
this architecturally-preserved destination on or similar
your own during your free time. Below are a
Activity Note: During our full-day tour of
few recommended options for independent
Bukhara, we’ll walk approximately 2.5 miles as
explorations:
we take in the sights of the city.
• Experience relaxation, Uzbek-style at
Breakfast: Served buffet-style in our hotel
Hammomi Kord: Relax in one of the oldest
beginning at 8am, with Central Asian and
running hammams (spas) in the world with
American options.
ancient spa treatments ranging from massag-
es to steams. Morning: We’ll embark on a full-day tour
• How to get there: A 10- to 15-minute walk. of Bukhara with our Trip Experience Leader,
• Hours: 9am-6pm, daily. departing the hotel by bus around 9am.
• Cost: About $20 USD. Bukhara is a prominent destination along
the Silk Road that grew wealthy on the trade
• Visit a private photo gallery in the former
that passed through. We’ll visit the opulent
Olimjon Caravanserai: The gallery displays
18th-century Bolo Hauz Mosque and the
interesting photos of Bukhara Jews, gypsies,
Chashma Ayub Mausoleum, the legendary
and candid city life from local photographer
spring brought forth by the prophet Job upon
Shavkat Boltaev.
striking the ground with his staff. And we’ll set
• How to get there: A 10- to 15-minute walk. off on foot through Old Town, exploring the
• Hours: 9am-7pm, daily. many mosques, mausoleums, and blue-domed
• Cost: About $1 USD. minarets of this UNESCO World Heritage
• Discover Bukhara’s poetic summer palace, Site—which still bears scars of a 13th-century
Sitora-i Mokhi-Khossa: Built in the early invasion by Genghis Khan. Our discoveries
19th century by Emir Nasrullah Khan, the also include the Ark Citadel, the city’s ancient
name translates to “Star, like the Moon,” and fortress. During the 19th century, the British
was dedicated to the Emir’s wife, who died in and Russian empires fought for dominance of
childbirth. Central Asia—a strategic rivalry called “The
Great Game”—and one of the most famous
• How to get there: A 15- to 20-minute taxi
ride, about $3 USD. moments in this struggle centered at the
Citadel and its connected prison. It was here
• Hours: 9am-7pm, daily.
that two British officers, Charles Stoddart
• Cost: About $3 USD.
and Arthur Connolly (the one who coined the
phrase “The Great Game”), were held in a
vermin-infested pit for two years before being
publicly beheaded and buried under the square
outside the main gate.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
22Then, at around 12:15pm, we’ll drive back to 700 residents where the chief occupation is
Lyab-i Hauz for our lunch. agriculture and the traditional ways of life carry
on. Cotton is the region’s largest crop, followed
Lunch: At a local restaurant in Lyab-i Hauz
by fruit and vegetable growing, and there is
around 12:30pm, featuring regional cuisine.
some small-scale animal breeding as well. Our
Afternoon: We’ll continue taking in the sights time here will give us a true taste of rural life in
of the city on our walk from the imposing Uzbekistan.
Kalyan Minaret back to our hotel. We’ll arrive
Upon arrival, we’ll have the chance to speak
back at our hotel by around 4:30pm, and you’ll
with a local chairman of the village who
have some free time to relax or explore more on
will enlighten us on some of the health
your own. You may wish to spend more time in
care, education, and social issues facing the
Lyab-i Hauz and take in the grand architecture
community. These include domestic violence,
of the Magok-i-Attari Mosque, dating back to
heating fuel shortages, and an aging village
the ninth century.
population. As we’ll learn, many of Nayman’s
Dinner: On your own—your Trip Experience youngest residents are leaving the village
Leader can provide you with recommendations. to move to the cities, where there are more
education and economic opportunities for
Evening: Free for your own discoveries. You them. As a result, those left behind wonder
can retire to your room for the rest of the who will continue the village’s traditions and
night or ask your Trip Experience Leader for way of life when they are gone. This is a great
recommendations. opportunity to learn about the challenges
facing this village and gain deeper insight into
Day 10 Bukhara • A Day in the Life of their culture.
Nayman village • Community lunch
Around 10:15am, after our conversation with
• Destination: Bukhara the chairman, we’ll walk to a local home in
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Nayman where three generations live under one
• Accommodations: Amelia Boutique Hotel roof. As we walk, your Trip Experience Leader
or similar will point out noteworthy sites in the town and
you’ll stop to mingle with any locals you might
Exclusive O.A.T. Activity Note: Today’s
see. In such a small and remote village, your
discoveries include A Day in the Life of Nayman,
presence is likely to be as exciting to the locals
a rural village outside Bukhara. During our time
as your visit here is to you. When we arrive at
here, we’ll take a walk through town and help
the family’s home, we’ll be welcomed in and
a locals prepare a meal, which we’ll then share
given a tour of their home. Then it’s time to roll
with them during a community lunch.
up our sleeves and get to work: We’ll be helping
Breakfast: Served buffet-style in our hotel to prepare our lunch, which may include
beginning at 7am, with Central Asian and local delicacies such as pilov (a rice dish) and
American options. dumplings. If you’d like, while the meal is
cooking you may also help out with the family’s
Morning: We’ll board our bus around 8:30am
chores. Depending on the season, you may be
and drive 45 minutes to the village of Nayman,
able to pick cotton or help harvest alfalfa.
where we’ll participate in A Day in the Life
experience. Nayman is a small village of about
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
23Lunch: Around 12:15pm, we’ll all meet up back across the Kyzylkum Desert on our way to
at the family’s home to share our community Khiva. We will follow the same route that camel
lunch. As we dine, take advantage to ask our caravans once traversed.
hosts any questions you may have about life in
The Silk Road was as much an exchange of
Nayman, their occupations, or what traditions
cultural values as it was an exchange of goods.
and customs they observe.
Gold, saffron, vegetables, and wine came from
Afternoon: At about 1:30pm, we’ll say goodbye the west, while ceramics, cinnamon, bronze,
to our gracious hosts and board our bus for the and silk made their way from the east. Along
return drive to Bukhara. We arrive back at our with these precious commodities came the
hotel around 2:30pm and have the remainder spread of religions and customs, many of which
of the afternoon free. You may choose to are still practiced in the region today.
explore on your own, or set out with your Trip
Lunch: Around 11:30am, we’ll stop at a local tea
Experience Leader on a discovery walk to meet
house for a picnic-style lunch organized by our
a local puppet master and go shopping in a
Trip Experience Leader.
nearby domed market.
Afternoon: As we continue on our journey to
Dinner: On your own. Perhaps you’ll try manti,
Khiva, we’ll stop to witness the Amu Darya
a dumpling popular in most Central Asian and
River, which in ancient times was regarded as
Soviet cuisines, filled with spiced meat, such as
the border between Greater Iran and Turan.
ground lamb or beef.
We reach our hotel in Khiva late this afternoon
Evening: Free to make independent around 5:30pm and have free time to settle in
explorations around Bukhara. Perhaps you’ll before dinner. Depending on where we stay,
venture to a local bar for a nightcap with fellow our hotel may feature a restaurant, bar, and
travelers. convenient Old Town location. Typical rooms
may include wireless Internet, a mini bar, and a
Day 11 Bukhara • Overland to Khiva private bathroom.
• Destination: Khiva Dinner: At the hotel restaurant at around 7pm,
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner featuring regional cuisine.
• Accommodations: Erkin Palace Hotel
Evening: The remainder of the evening is yours.
or similar
You are free to return to your room to rest from
Activity Note: Our overland journey to Khiva our long day of travel, or join fellow travelers
will take approximately nine hours by bus. for a nightcap in the hotel bar.
During our travels, we’ll make stops for
Freedom To Explore: During your two days
bathroom breaks, lunch, and to take in the
in Khiva, you have the freedom to explore the
scenic desert landscapes of Uzbekistan.
twisting alleyways and fabled walled city on
Breakfast: Served buffet-style at our your own during your free time. Below are a
hotel around 7am, with Central Asian and few recommended options for independent
American options. explorations:
Morning: We’ll depart the hotel around 8:30am
and experience the Silk Road the way centuries
of merchants did, as we spend the day traveling
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-955-1925
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