10 Fun facts about Uzbekistan to celebrate the new Visa free regime

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On 1st February 2019 a visa-free regime was established in Uzbekistan for 45 countries for 30 days from the date of entry. These countries include the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand and most European nations. Our American and Canadian friends will still need to apply for an E-Visa prior to entry. Full details of the new regime can be found here.

To celebrate this exciting news, we have compiled a list of 10 fun facts about Uzbekistan! 

  1. Uzbekistan has a population of just over 32 million people; most of whom live in rural areas.
  2. Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, has the biggest metro system in Central Asia. Some of the stations feature marble ceilings, engraved metal and chandeliers. This year is the first time that photography has been allowed in these beautiful stations.
  3. None of Uzbekistan’s rivers lead to the sea.
  4. Uzbekistan is one of two doubly landlocked countries in the world (that is, a country completely surrounded by landlocked countries) can you guess the other doubly landlocked country? Comment down below!
  5. Uzbekistan is home to the world’s largest open-pit gold mine. The county produces 4.5 million kilograms of gold per year!
  6. The national dish is Palov or Plov; made of rice, mutton, onions and grated carrot. According to local legend this dish was invented by the cooks of Alexander the Great.
  7. Melon is a popular fruit in Uzbekistan; they have over 150 different varieties!
  8. Lepioshka (bread) is never laid upside down or placed on the ground as this is said to bring bad luck.
  9. Traditionally, the most respected guest at dinner is seated the farthest from the entrance to the house.
  10. Uzbekistan can be visited on many of our Central Asia Overland Adventures! Join us in 2019 on any of the following trips to experience this fascinating country:

 

BISHKEK to ASHGABAT (20 days) Silk Road Highlights

BISHKEK to ASHGABAT (36 days) Silk Road Highlights and Kyrgyzstan Overland

BISHKEK to TBILISI (42 days) Kyrgyzstan to Caucasus

BISHKEK to TBILISI (8 weeks) Kyrgyzstan to Caucasus

BISHKEK to ISTANBUL (9 weeks) The ‘Stans, Iran & Turkey

BISHKEK to ISTANBUL (11 weeks) Kyrgyzstan, Iran, The ‘Stans & Turkey

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