Dear Intrepid World Travelers,
As it is said in Oriental wisdom: “Better seeing once than hearing 100 times.” Come with us to Central Asia, to the crossroads of the ancient Great Silk Road along trade routes between China and Europe. Our Silk Road SERIES also includes tours of China – from Xi’an to Kashgar, and west, though Iran to the Caspian en route to its ultimate western terminus, the Roman Empire. Modern-day travelers can be a part of the vast flow of explorers, writers, conquerors, academicians and theologians as well as traders who have traversed these routes.
In the Jewels of the Silk Road, we’ll explore the Uzbek cities of Khiva, Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara, which are testimony to a unique ancient history and a rich heritage.
v Visit Tashkent, a 2,000 year old city with extensive parks and gardens.
v See the 12th-century Minaret that was as a lighthouse for caravans crossing the desert.
v Stroll the ancient streets of Khiva, a UNESCO city reserve.
v Travel along the legendary Silk Road to the ancient city of Bukhara.
v Experience Samarkand, the “Eden of the Orient”.
v Search out treasures and shop for bargains at the Silk and Chorsu Bazaars.
v Uncover the mysteries of Tamerlane, the great Turkic warrior and conqueror, the founder of Uzbek statehood, and visit his birthplace.
We are offering an extension to the eastern part of Uzbekistan, the fabled Ferghana Valley and the rugged, mountainous and beautiful now independent country of the Kyrgyz Republic. Both components are carefully designed to help you discover the little known but thoroughly fascinating countries of exotic bazaars, caravanserai, madrahsahs, and the traditional hospitality of a warm and friendly people. Be aware though that the Kyrgyz Republic does not yet have the tourist infrastructure Uzbekistan does, so be prepared for no frills accommodations.
Today’s Uzbekistan is one of the pearls of Oriental and Moslem culture, with outstanding cuisine and breathtaking nature. Come with us and follow Central Asia’s Silk Road!
Gwen Erwood
President, Travel Concepts International
Foundation
