Travelling in beautiful Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan is the Stan most travellers should start with—and the one that may completely change how you think about Central Asia. If you want a journey built around Silk Road cities, dramatic history, easy logistics, and surprisingly little jet lag, this episode shows why now is the time to go. Simon and Carl Meadows break down what makes Uzbekistan the standout destination in the region, from the best seasons to visit to the smartest way to structure a trip. Carl shares more than 20 years of firsthand experience travelling through Central Asia, including how the country has changed over the last decade and why first-time visitors are often best served by a small-group tour capped at just 12 people. Discover why spring and autumn are the sweet spots for weather, why summer temperatures can reach 40 to 45 degrees, and why a 14-day itinerary is a great length if you want to do the country justice. The conversation also covers practical details: direct flights from the UK, minimal jet lag, straightforward entry for many British and EU travellers, and hotels and high-speed trains that make getting around easier than many people expect. Explore the must-see cities that keep drawing travellers back: Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva. Carl explains what makes each one different—from Tashkent’s overlooked depth to Samarkand’s unmissable Registan, and Bukhara’s walkable old city to Khiva’s sense of stepping back centuries. Curious about the Stans but unsure where to start? This episode offers a clear answer, with useful advice for planning a cultural trip, choosing between group and private tours, and deciding whether Uzbekistan is worth the long-haul flight. Spoiler: it may be one of the easiest and most rewarding long-distance trips you can take. Simon hosts the conversation, while Carl Meadows brings more than two decades of Central Asia travel experience and practical guidance on when to go, what to see, and how to travel there well.