Information
National Arts and Crafts of Uzbekistan Arts of Uzbekistan
The artistic culture of Uzbekistan is based on all the best achievements of the Uzbek people throughout history. National arts and crafts occupy a prominent place in the cultural heritage of Uzbekistan. In the Middle Ages, Uzbek arts developed against the background of the art of interlacing, which had become widespread. The many national crafts and arts include engraving on copper, wood and plaster-based materials; jewelry arts; carpet making; ceramics; ornamental embroidery, gold embroidery; decorative currying of tanned leather; silk spinning; manufacture of decorative braids; inlaid works on musical instruments; painting on papier-mâché; creation of decorative boxes for local tobacco; baskets, cribs, chests and many other types. Over the centuries, Uzbek national crafts and arts have both increased and decreased, but the transmission of artistic traditions from one generation to another has never ceased.
Khan-Atlas silk production
Turkmen Carpets
Suzanne Uzbek
Varnished Miniature
Uzbek Tubeteika
Blue Ceramic
Handmade products from the artisans of Andijan
Photography in Uzbekistan
UZBEKISTAN WEATHER:
Uzbekistan has an extreme continental climate. It is usually warmer in the south and colder in the north. The average temperatures in December are -8°C (18°F) in the north and 0°C (32°F) in the south. However, extreme fluctuations are measured as low as -35°C (-31°F). During the summer, temperatures can reach 45°C (113°F) and above. The humidity is low. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are generally the most pleasant times to travel. In the fall, it's harvest time and the markets are full of fresh fruits. If you are interested in hiking, summer (July and August) is the best time, because the summers are almost dry. In recent years, Uzbekistan has been particularly affected by global warming and the drying up of the Aral Sea, which has changed from cold and snowy winters to mild winters with less rainfall by making it possible to travel in winter.
Cuisine of Uzbekistan
Uzbek cuisine. Food of Uzbekistan
A particularly distinctive and well-developed aspect of Uzbek culture is its cuisine. Unlike their nomadic neighbors, the Uzbeks have had a sedentary civilization for centuries. Between deserts and mountains, in oases and fertile valleys, they cultivated cereals and domesticated livestock. The resulting abundance of products allowed Uzbeks to express their strong tradition of hospitality, which enriched their cuisine.
The seasons, especially winter and summer, greatly influence the composition of the basic menu. In summer, fruits, vegetables and nuts are omnipresent. Fruits grow in abundance in Uzbekistan - grapes, melons, watermelons, apricots, pears, apples, cherries, pomegranates, lemons, persimmons, quinces and figs. Vegetables are no less abundant, including some lesser-known species such as green radishes, yellow carrots and dozens of varieties of pumpkins and squash, in addition to the usual eggplants, peppers, turnips, cucumbers and succulent tomatoes.
The winter diet traditionally consists of dried fruits and vegetables and canned food. Hearty dishes of noodles or pasta are also common in cold weather.
In general, mutton is the preferred source of protein in the Uzbek diet. Fat-tailed sheep are valued not only for their meat and fat as a source of cooking oil, but also for their wool. Beef and horse meat are also consumed in substantial quantities. Camel and goat meat are less common.
Uzbek dishes are not particularly hot and fiery, although certainly tasty. Some of their main spices are black cumin, red and black peppers, barberry berries, coriander and sesame seeds. The most common herbs are coriander (fresh coriander), dill, persil, celeriac and basil. Other seasonings include wine vinegar, generously applied to salads and marinades, and fermented milk products.
The wide range of breads, both sourdough and unleavened, is a staple food for the majority of the population. The flatbread, or "no", "lepyoshka" is usually baked in tandoor ovens, and served with tea, not forgetting at every meal. Some varieties are prepared with onions or meat in the dough, others are garnished with sesame seeds or kalonji.
Central Asia is famous for the richness and delicacy of its fermented milk products. The most predominant are katyk, or yogurt made from sour milk, and suzma, filtered curd similar to cottage cheese, which are eaten plain, in salads or added to soups and main courses, which gives a unique and delicious flavor.
Plov or Osh, the Uzbek version of the "pilaff" ("pilav"), is the flagship of Uzbek cuisine. It consists mainly of fried and boiled meat, onions, carrots and rice; with raisins, barberry berries, chickpeas or fruits added for variety. Uzbek men are proud of their ability to prepare the most unique and sumptuous pilaf. The oshpaz, or master chef, often cooks pilaf over an open flame, sometimes serving up to 1000 people from a single cauldron during holidays or occasions such as weddings. It certainly takes years of practice without the possibility of failure to prepare a dish, sometimes containing up to 100 kilograms of rice.
Tea is revered in the most beautiful of Oriental traditions. It is offered first to any guest and there is a whole subset of customs surrounding the preparation, offering and consumption of tea. Green tea is the drink of hospitality and predominates. Black tea is preferred in Tashkent, although both teas are rarely taken with milk or sugar. An entire part of their food culture is devoted solely to the consumption of tea. Some of them include samsa, bread, halva and various fried foods.
The "chaykhana" (tea room) is a cornerstone of traditional Uzbek society. Always shaded, preferably located near a fresh stream, the chaykhana is a gathering place for social interaction and fraternity. Uzbek men in robes gather around low tables centered on beds adorned with antique carpets, enjoying delicious pilaf, kebabs and countless cups of green tea.
Learn more about Uzbek national dishes (shurpa, chuchvara, manty, samsa)
Obi-No (Lepyoshka)
Pilov Sumalak
TOURIST SEASONS
Due to the peculiarity of the climate, the first half of the tourist season falls on the spring months: March, April, May, and the second half is in August, September and October. There is also a tourist activity in winter for lovers of the mountains and winter ports (skiing, snowboarding).
UZBEKISTAN CURRENCY
All payments must be made in "Sum", the national currency of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Currency exchange offices are available in all cities of Uzbekistan. All foreign currencies can be converted at the main offices of banks. Preferred currencies-US dollars and Euros
CREDIT CARDS IN UZBEKISTAN
Credit cards (Amex, Visa and Master Cards) are generally accepted in most hotels and restaurants here. However, this is not a very well-developed system, so it is also advisable to take a good amount of money with you, in order to avoid any awkward situations. You can exchange your credit card for cash in some hotels, for example Uzbekistan, Radisson SAS, Intercontinental, Markaziy, etc. but it depends on the actual availability of the local currency (Sum) in the ATM at the time of withdrawal. It is also possible to withdraw money from your credit card at the central building of the NBU (National Bank of Uzbekistan) and in all regional branches of this bank.
CLOTHING
Very light and loose clothing (preferably made of cotton or natural fibers) is recommended for daytime use, with a light sweater and/or a casual jacket for cooler evenings. Due to the large amount of walking tours in dry, dusty and sometimes rough areas (i.e. dirt, cobblestones, etc.), comfortable and strong walking shoes with solid soles and support are essential. You may need to remove your shoes at the entrance to some religious sites. There are no special dress requirements for visiting Islamic religious sites, except that you must take care to cover most parts of your body, including your arms and legs. Above all, travelers are encouraged to dress for comfort rather than fashion. Valuable jewelry and any clothing that needs special attention should be left at home. Due to the very high risk of sunburn, your clothing should offer as much protection as possible. A hat with good shade protection and sunglasses are essential. In some regions, the average visitor may seem extremely wealthy in the eyes of the local population. A sumptuous jewelry display, bulging handbags and wallets and a neck full of cameras will make you stand out in the crowd. Be discreet and respectful of the local culture and traditions and take a minimum of valuables.
LUGGAGE
A shoulder bag with a strong strap or a small backpack is the most convenient way to carry cameras and personal belongings during your stay. All your luggage must be secured with a padlock. Always make sure that all cases and bags are clearly labeled. The label must bear your name and the details of your destination, but not your home address. It's a good idea to label your luggage inside. This will allow the airport authorities to identify your luggage in case of loss or removal of the tags. Never leave your luggage unattended at airports or train stations. Your free air baggage allowance is 20 kg per person, plus an additional carry-on bag in the cabin on domestic flights in Central Asia, with the exception of Turkmenistan, where the maximum baggage allowance is 10 kg. Because you will be traveling to certain regions where the travel conditions are rather basic, travelers are strongly advised to limit their luggage to a main suitcase or a backpack and a carry-on bag for the night. As recommended under CURRENCY and SECURITY, an important part of your luggage will also be your wallet to safely transport your travel documents.
HEALTH in UZBEKISTAN
You will be traveling to regions that are largely free of major infectious diseases, so there is no official vaccination obligation for foreign visitors. However, we strongly advise you to consult your doctor or your Vaccination Center to find out the health warnings in force and the recommended vaccinations. Since it is practically inevitable in regions where the water is rich in mineral and metal salts (as is the case in Central Asia), it is worth preparing for minor gastric ailments. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for recommended remedies. In all the regions where you will travel, one of the main health warnings is dehydration. Maintain a regular consumption of non-alcoholic liquids at all times. Sunburn is another major problem. Bring adequate sunscreen lotion and a wide-brimmed hat. If you wish, you can also bring vitamins, throat lozenges, gargles to prevent basic infections, cold/flu tablets, aspirin, bandages, antiseptics and antibacterial cream. Please inform us if you have any allergies or special medical foods that may need special attention during the trip, and if your doctor has prescribed any medications, make sure that you have enough supplies to last for the duration of your vacation. Important: Please make sure that you carry in your hand luggage any medication that you may need in case your suitcase is separated from you.
SECURITY
Individual safes are not always available in Uzbek hotels. An essential part of your luggage is a comfortable coin purse, which can be worn under your clothes. At all times, you must carry your main documents with you (currency, traveler's checks, plane tickets, passports, visas, etc.) Although it is highly unlikely that you will encounter any physical danger, minor thefts in crowded public places may occur and all precautions must be taken to avoid losing anything of value. In accordance with local legislation, you must hand in your passport at the hotel reception upon arrival to allow the registration of your passport details by the hotel. Your passport will normally be available again after a few hours. Do not forget to collect it before departure.
PHOTOGRAPHY IN UZBEKISTAN
No obstacles are presented to visitors who wish to photograph places of historical interest. Photography inside certain religious monuments and in airports, train stations or near military installations may not be allowed. If in doubt, ask your local guide. Please also note that there are fees for photography in most tourist sites (not included in the price of your visit). Film and batteries are available in major cities, but we recommend that you buy your supply before your arrival, especially if you have the latest model or a sophisticated type of camera that requires a specific type of film and/or batteries.
DRINKS
Local mineral water contains a higher level of minerals than Western or bottled spring water and the taste can be rather "salty" (these mineral waters are considered healthier than European spring or mineral waters). Imported spirits and wines are available, but in some places the provenance of some spirits and wines is questionable and the prices inflated. As a result, you are advised to buy your favorite alcohol duty-free before your arrival.
INCIDENTAL EXPENSES
You will be responsible for covering the incidental costs of your hotel such as telephone calls, room service, minibar in your room and laundry. Before leaving all the hotels of the tour, please make sure that you have checked with the reception all the personal expenses that the hotel may have made in your room.
TIP
Travelers may wish to express their appreciation - a reward for an additional service - to the porters, waiters, drivers and guides. The degree of appreciation may vary, and our policy is to leave this to your discretion. This is usually given individually in an envelope at the end of the visit/service.