DESCRIPTION:

Discover Uzbekistan, one of Central Asia’s most compelling republics. This is a remarkable journey through history along the old Silk Road, where ancient trading routes once linked China to the Mediterranean. Uzbekistan lies at the cultural and geographic crossroads of the region.

 

Follow the Silk Road through the oases of Bukhara, Samarkand, and Khiva, all UNESCO Sites. Begin in Tashkent’s old city before moving on to the beautifully preserved medieval city of Khiva. Then drive through the haunting Kyzylkum Desert to Bukhara and Samarkand, two of the most iconic and enthralling cities to grace the historic Silk Road, and explore the winding alleyways, tiled madrassahs and beautiful palaces. In the 14th century, Temur (Tamerlane) made Samarkand the capital of his empire. Samarkand, a true crossroads of culture, is a must see for all travelers visiting the Central Asia.

 

On this journey, learn about the laws and traditions of the Jewish peoples of Uzbekistan, who have thrived for centuries in this mostly Islamic region. The Jews of Uzbekistan can be divided into two categories: the Ashkenazim who came to the region from other parts of the Soviet Union during Soviet rule and sometimes earlier, and the indigenous Bukharan community, which has its own Tajik-Jewish dialect, and which traces its roots back many centuries. Unique communities of Jews carried on their distinctive traditions throughout the region for hundreds of years. After centuries of difficult existence, one of the world’s most isolated Jewish communities nearly disappeared amid immigration to Israel and the US. Today, several thousand remain, optimistic that they can now practice their faith without fear and educate their children in Jewish schools. The Jewish quarters in the cities of Uzbekistan are well-preserved. Experience the thrill of history and the story of a people in this truly amazing part of the world.

 

CONSIDER:

While the accommodations are as comfortable as possible for the region, they will vary from superior tourist class hotels to small intimate hotels.

 

OPTIONAL EXTENSIONS & ADD-ONS:

Can be customized to visit other "Stan" countries: Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, or also Iran.