UZBEKISTAN

Arguably the most interesting country in Central Asia. It is steeped in so much history it will make you dizzy. The country boasts of once being one of the most valuable trade routes of the ancient world - the famous "Silk Road", with many of country's cities being located along this route. But the down side of this was the constant stream of invaders who wanted to access the wealth of riches that came along the road. These included the Huns, Alexander the Great, Genghis Khan and many more in-between.

The most pleasant times to visit Uzbekistan are the springs and autumn months. This is manly due to the milder climate and the seasonal flora. The country offers good watersports including rafting and kayaking during the winter months and the district of Chimgan is home to some ski runs. The Angren River Valley of Uzbekistan also offers some excellent hiking trails through the Pamir Alay Range. The country is home to some of the most beautiful examples of Islamic religious buildings in the world. With some of the finest mosques, minarets and mausoleum being found in Bukhara, Khiva, and Samarkand.

The cost of living in Uzbekistan is generally good with Tashkent being home to many cheap restaurants but hotel rates can seem relatively high. Another useful tip is to only take new crisp notes, as some retailers will not accept old used notes. Visitors to this surprising country will find some of the oldest towns in the world, many architectural remains of once lost civilisations and some of the world's most beautiful examples of Islamic religious buildings.

Worldmark's range of services include:-

Due to our extensive overseas network we are able to offer any client a full range of services. These can be purchased individually or as part of a package.

* Discounted fares with Uzbekistan Airlines.
* Discounted hotels.
* Business Invitations / Supports.
* Private car transfers.
* Sightseeing & Guided Tours
* Rail & Air tickets
* Chauffeur & Car Hire

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Tashkent

The capital of Uzbekistan can be found sitting in the fertile valley of Fergana on the banks of the Cherchik River and was once the 4th largest city of the former USSR.

It has since developed into one of the major hubs of Central Asia, but thanks to the 1966 earthquake little remains of its 2,000 year old history. But a stroll around the "OLD TOWN" district reflects some of this history with its mosques and mud brick houses. Another attraction that should not be missed is the CHORSU BAZAAR, which is a huge open market that draws crowds from all around the country. There are also many pretty mosques’ that will be of interest to visitors, such as the grand KUKELDASH MEDRESSA, which dates back to the 15th century. The city is also home to some interesting museums such as THE MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS, with its collection of 1000-year-old Buddhist statues, the 60-year-old MUSEUM OF APPLIED ARTS, as well as various historical museums and galleries.

Due to the city's unique location it developed rapidly into a trade hub for Eastern Europe, India, Asia and the Middle East. Modern day Tashkent has blossomed into a city of parks, bustling squares, gardens, and ancient monuments.

We can offer discounted rates at the following hotels:-

Le Meridien,Radisson SAS, Inter-Continental,Shodllk Palace,Uzbekistan Hotel and Sheraton Tashkent.

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Other destination suggestions:-

Bukhara

Is one of most ancient cities in Central Asia with many buildings spanning 1,000 years. It's many beautiful mosques & minarets have witnessed over 2,500 years of history. There are over 100 state protected buildings with the main sights consisting of, Labihauz a 17th century plaza built around a pool and 3 domed bazaars. Then you have the tallest ancient building in Asia, the 154ft high Kalan minaret and finally the Ismail Samani, an elegant mausoleum dating back to approximately 905.Together with the cities of Samarkand and Khiva, it contributed to the development of Central Asia.

SUGGESTED HOTEL:- Bukhara Hotel and New Bukhara Hotel.

Khiva

Dates back to the 8th century when it was a trading post on the Silk Road for the Caspian Sea & the mighty Volga River. The town's highlights include the beautiful KALTA MINOR MINARET, the KUKHNA ARK FORTRESS, the elegantly decorated TOSH-KHOVLI PALACE, and the highly respected PAHLAVON MAHMUD MAUSOLEUM.

Shakhrisabz

Sits south of Samarkand and is home to some of the area’s finest analogical finds. Such as AK-SARAY PALACE with its 131ft coloured mosaic entrance and the grand DORUSSIADAT. The area is also a honeycomb of tombs of its past inhabitants and the enormous KOK-GUMBAZ MOSQUE.

Samarkand

One of the oldest and most famous cities in the world. It was founded in the 5th century B.C. The city is renowned for it's historical architecture & monuments and a wonderful town-museum filled to the brim with examples of medieval Moslem architecture. The REGISTAN is a collection of elegant buildings; BIBI-KHANYM MOSQUE was once the world’s biggest mosque but has since collapsed due to numerous earthquakes but is still home to the MAIN BAZZAR, and finally the tombs of SHAH-ZINDA STREET. The city and its surrounding area are full of history & stunning archaeology.

SUGGESTED HOTELS:- Afrosiab Hotel, Central Samarkand Hotel and the Samarkand Hotel.

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Travel Warning / Information

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Uzbek Independence day celebrations will take place on 1st September. There will be increased security throughout the country, particularly in Tashkent. It is likely that streets will be closed at times and security checkpoints will be in place.

We advise against all but essential travel to Andizhan and Kara-Su regions in Eastern Kazakhstan until further notice. Visitors should also avoid any public gatherings or demostrations that may take place throughout the country.

Due to unrest in Kyrgyzstan following their recent elections, the Uzbek authorities have tightened controls on the Uzbek - Kyrgyz border and closed border crossings. Travellers should also remeber that some of Uzbekistan's borders are mined and are potential flashpoints and avoid all but essential travel to areas bordering Afghanistan,Tajikistan,and Kyrgyzstan. There are also tightened controls on the Uzbek - Kyrgyz border.

There is a high threat from terrorism in Uzbekistan. You should be particularly vigilant in public places, including areas frequented by tourists such as bars, restaurants and hotels. Visitors should also pay attention to any security announcements by the Uzbek authorities. Uzbekistan’s borders are potential flashpoints and some are mined. You should avoid non-essential travel to areas bordering Afghanistan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan.We advise all British travellers to be vigilant and stay in touch with the embassy.

There have been occasional muggings and petty crime against foreigners, sometimes by off-duty policemen or those pretending to be policemen. Keep valuables out of sight and avoid unlit or remote areas. Avoid walking at night. Photographing apparently innocent subjects can upset the authorities and you should check before using a camera.

Travellers should also ensure that they have comprehensive travel insurance prior to departure.

This information is correct and current as of 10/5/04 and was provided by the FCO Update service.

Health Information

Drink only bottled water. There have been outbreaks of Hepatitis A, Meningitis and Diphtheria in Uzbekistan. You should seek medical advice before travelling. There has also been a confirmed case of malaria contracted in the Termez region. You should consult your doctor about anti-malarial drugs before travelling to this area.

Comprehensive medical and travel insurance is essential.

We recommoned that all travellers check with their GP prior to depature or refer to the Department of Health’s website at: Department of Health.

All information is current as of 10/5/04

Worldmark Travel can provide official Ministry approved invitations. These take 10 days and are required prior to any traveller obtaining a visa.

Please contcat this office for further details,an application form and costs.

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E-Mail Worldmark.uk@hrgworldwide.com

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