Uzbekistan’s Hidden Textile Treasures

My textile trip to Uzbekistan was an extraordinary experience facilitated by the thought, care and planning that went into the event by the team at Silk Road Treasure Tours. From the moment we were greeted at the airport by our delightful and efficient guide Mohigul Isomova and our extremely competent driver, we felt at home. The hotels (Bukhara, Tashkent, Samarkand, Ferghana, Khiva) in which we stayed were all well-appointed, clean and comfortable and the staff most accommodating. Breakfasts were buffet style with a wide range of food to cater to all tastes.

Mohigul in particular was an extraordinarily competent, considerate and charming hostess. Her skills as a textile  guide were impressive. She had a plan for each day (with the emphasis on avoiding crowds) but was flexible in accommodating any changes we requested. She cheerfully supported and facilitated unscheduled morning teas/shopping/photography/etc stops that enhanced our Silk Road journey and our enjoyment of it. No request was too onerous and when I developed an annoying cold, she procured the requisite “cures” so I could continue the journey more comfortably. Time and again she proved herself sensible to our needs, wants and interests. We were always comfortable in her presence and with her decision making. The food in Uzbekistan was delicious and Mohigul assisted us in discovering Uzbeki treats in the bustling Silk Road bazaar as well as choosing dishes in restaurants and cafés that suited our tastes as well as dietary requirements. The wine tasting in Samarkand was a particular highlight as I work in the wine industry in Australia. The train journeys from Tashkent to Samarkand and Bukhara were wonderful. Such an efficient, clean and comfortable way to travel! I am also thoroughly impressed with Uzbekistan Airlines. Smooth take-offs and landings, wonderful Uzbekistan food (not often one can say that these days) and during our internal flight from Khiva to Tashkent, the attendants were responsive and efficient. Our drivers were on the whole great. Negotiating some of the traffic challenges required considerable skill and patience.

Meeting with and being entertained by Zulya Rajabova’ s family was one of the many highlights of our Uzbekistan trip. Such kindness and hospitality were completely unexpected. We were warmly welcomed, feted and entertained. We are both huge fans of arts and crafts and textiles, so witnessing traditional skills being practiced was of particular interest. I loved our trip. I cannot speak more highly of the care and attention shown to us and will certainly recommend Silk Road Treasure Tours, its wonderful staff and stunningly beautiful, clean, safe Uzbekistan.