©
@ flickr cc Jean-Pierre Dalbéra
Uzbekistan Travel Guide
©
@ flickr cc Jean-Pierre Dalbéra
When you're ready to go souvenir shopping in Uzbekistan, first port of call should be the Chorsu Bazaar and its wide range of traditional goods.
Take a wander around the Chorsu Bazaar if you want to take homesome great Uzbek souvenirs. You'll find stunning scarves along with silk fabrics , rugs, wall hangings as well as fabulous jewelry, with or without semi-precious stones. Regarding jewelry, do check its quality before you hand your money over. You should also check out Samarkand's ceramic center and pick up some of its classic blue/green/pale white pottery.
Give a rug as a gift, but be careful! You'll need an export license from the Ministry of Tourism and Culture. Bukhara has particularly beautiful ones.
During your vacation in Uzbekistan, you'll quickly see it's a land of artists. You'll find numerous, stunning paintings at an affordable price. You'll no doubt fall for at least one painting, particularly if you find yourself in Bukhara. Don't be afraid to negotiate the price of suzanis, the traditional wall hangings with patterns that vary from town to town.
On the food side, during your trip, you'll probably have become a fan of round Uzbek loaves that are shared around the table You can also bring back typical, sweet pastries and treat your friends to a tasty snack. Sadly, packing a serving of plov will not be possible - you'll have to make do with savoring this spicy, national dish of mutton, veg, rice and raisins during your trip. You'll also be able to try samsas - triangular, savory pastries stuffed with meat, potatoes and pumpkin. And you musn't miss out on a bowl of their delicious lamb and vegetable Shourpa soup.
As with many Asian countries, this is the time to stock up on spices!
