The Uzbek population is mainly made up of ethnic Uzbeks who are considered to be a Turkic group, however, there are also significant minority groups of Russians, Tajiks, Kazakhs, Karakalpaks and Tartars. Nearly 90% of the population are Muslim. However, there are Orthodox Christians and Buddhists, Jews, and Jews that reside in the country. Uzbeks, as their Central Asian counterparts, are popular for their warmth and welcoming. It is common to shake hands with people and ask them questions about their family as well as their health and personal lives.
Uzbekistan tours allow you to taste the local cuisine and share some tips with others. A typical meal could include palov (rice cooked with onions, meat, and carrots) or mutton baked in the form of a the tandir. Uzbeks are also able to enjoy dumplings called manti, and a variety of kebabs. Take advantage of your Uzbek cuisine with some traditional black or green tea or drinking yogurt, which is known as Ayran. Uzbekistan, although a predominantly Muslim country, is a secular state that allows you to enjoy the local wines.
Uzbekistan is part of the Central Asian group between Asia and Middle East. It shares borders with Kazakhstan, Tajikistan Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan and Kyrgyzstan. Uzbekistan has a coastline that runs along the Aral Sea as well as the huge, but relatively shallow lake Sarygamysh. The Kyzyl Kum (also known as the “red sand” desert) covers approximately 80% of the country. Only a small portion of the Fergana valley has fertile land. The Tian Shan Range is located in the southern regions of the mountains in Uzbekistan.
The bazaars in Uzbekistan are a dream for buyers. Shopping here isn’t just an opportunity to make money and have a good time. The Tashkent markets, especially the Chorsu Bazaar, are great to find bargains. You can find Soviet memorabilia like as stamps and portraits of Lenin as well as military uniforms and the hats. Other local souvenirs include pale and intricately patterned pottery, vibrant rugs and clothing, and jewellery made with traditional silver. The Bukhara bazaar is perhaps the most photogenic, with its abundance of fresh food and smiling people.
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