1. Witness the ancient architecture- Uzbekistan is home to some of the world’s oldest and most iconic architectural wonders, like the ruins at Samarkand and Bukhara, the Ichan-Kala in Khiva, and the Registan in Shakhrisabz.

2. Experience the vibrant culture- Uzbekistan is a varied and vibrant country, with a rich mix of cultural influences. Visit the artisan workshops of Khiva’s Old Town, take a stroll through the markets in Tashkent, and enjoy traditional folk performances.

3. Explore the Silk Road- Uzbekistan has long been a major stop on the ancient Silk Road, and you can see the great monuments and archaeological sites along the way. Stop in cities like Samarkand and Bukhara to explore the caravanserais, madrasas, and bazaars of the past.

4. Sample the local cuisine- Uzbek cuisine is known for its hearty dishes and flavorful use of spices. Try the national dish of palov, the stuffed manty dumplings, or the local favorite of plov, a rice-based dish.

5. See the Aral Sea- The Aral Sea was once one of the world’s largest inland bodies of water, but has since been almost completely drained. Despite this, it still holds a unique beauty, and you can take a boat trip to explore its islands and shorelines.

6. Visit the Fergana Valley- The Fergana Valley is known for its colorful mosques, medieval fortresses, and traditional villages. It’s also the home of some of the best handmade carpets and pottery in the region.

7. Take part in the Festival of the Desert- This annual festival is held in the Kyzylkum Desert and celebrates the nomadic culture of the region. You can watch horse races, take a camel ride, and listen to live music and dance performances.

8. Marvel at the mosques- Uzbekistan is home to some of the finest mosques in the world. Visit the Poi Kalon Complex in Bukhara and the Kalyan Mosque in Samarkand, both of which are decorated with beautiful tilework and intricate carvings.

9. Go to the opera- Visit the Alisher Navoi Grand Opera and Ballet Theater in Tashkent, one of the best opera houses in Central Asia. You can catch a