About Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan, in the ancient cradle between the Amu-Darya and Syr-Darya rivers with the area of 447,400 sq km and population 25,981,000, it is the most historically fascinating of the Central Asian republics. Within it are some of the oldest towns in the world, some of the Silk Road's main centres and most of the region's architectural splendours. Ancient cities of Uzbekistan were located on the ancient Silk Road, the trading route between China and the West.

The capital of the country is Tashkent- once the fourth largest city in the former USSR, is Central Asia's hub and has better international flight connections than any other city in the region. You can reach Tashkent by National aircompany Uzbekiston Hava Yollary (has regular flights to London, Paris, Athens, Amsterdam, Frankfurt and meny other cities). In addition you can go by British Airways, Aeroflot or Pulkovo.

88% of the population are Muslim (mostly Sunnis), 9% Eastern Orthodox. Official language- Uzbek, but also Russian and Tajik.

The best period to visit the country is from April-October,the weather is mild and in April the desert blooms briefly. In Fall it's harvest time, and the markets are full of fresh fruit.

In general, there are no strict limitations on clothing, especially in Tashkent and other major cities. In some provinces, however, such as Ferghana Valley, it would be better to avoid wearing shorts. Same rule is applied when visiting religious places, mosques, mausoleums, etc.

Unlike tea, coffee is not popular among Uzbeks. In certain places it is not possible to get coffee. There are rarely hotels offering french coffee, instead there is instant coffee available.

Uzbekistan's official currency is Som. Soms come in banknote denominations of 100, 200, 500, and 1.000. Coins, although exist, are rarely used.

In some places, it is possible to pay by credit cards. Master Card and Visa are accepted.

During the past few years, luxurious hotels were built in Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara, which are managed by western hotel operators. In addition, there are a number of licensed independent hotels and B&B's that provide suitable accommodation at much lower price. It is necessary for visitors to obtain a registration during the stay in Uzbekistan, which is usually provided by the hotel that you will stay. Most tourist hotel rooms have a shower, private bath, air conditioning, telephone, satellite TV with international channels like CNN, BBC, ESPN.