The Uzbek population is mainly made up of ethnic Uzbeks which are an ethnic Turkic group, however there are significant minorities of Russians, Tajiks, Kazakhs, Karakalpaks and Tartars. Nearly 90% of the population are Muslim. However, there are Orthodox Christians and Buddhists, Jews as well as Jews who live within the country. Uzbeks are, like their Central Asian counterparts, are popular for their warmth and welcoming. People are typically greeted with handshakes. It’s also considered polite to ask several questions regarding the person’s family , health, and lifestyle – without necessarily waiting for an answer.
Uzbekistan tours are a great opportunity to sample local cuisine and get some ideas back to you. A typical meal could consist of meals like palov, which is rice mixed with carrots, onions, and meat, or mutton cooked in an oven called a tandir. Uzbeks can also enjoy dumplings known as manti as well as a local variation of Kebabs. You can enjoy your Uzbek cuisine with a cup of traditional black or green tea, or a drink of yogurt known as the ayran. Uzbekistan, although a predominantly Muslim country, is also a secular country that allows you to enjoy the local wines.
Uzbekistan is part of the Central Asian group between Asia and the Middle East. It is bordered by Kazakhstan, Tajikistan Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, and Kyrgyzstan. Uzbekistan has a coastline along the Aral Sea as well as the large, but very shallow lake Sarygamysh. Around 80% of the country is covered in the Kyzyl Kum, also known as the red sand desert. There is a small amount of fertile soil in the Fergana Valley. The Tian Shan Range is located in the southern region of the Uzbekstan mountains.
Uzbekistan’s bazaars are a shopper’s paradise. There, bargaining isn’t just a way of life but it’s also a good laugh. Tashkent’s markets, especially the Chorsu Bazaar are great places to shop for bargains. Shop for soviet memorabilia such as stamps and portraits of Lenin and uniforms for military and hats. Additionally, you can purchase local souvenirs like intricately decorated pottery, vibrant clothes, rugs and jewellery that is made of traditional silver. The Bukhara bazaar is perhaps one of the most beautiful, with its rows of fresh produce and smiling locals.
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