Spotlight on Tashkent!

🇺🇿Tashkent Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, is a city that exceeded my expectations. Although I was a bit apprehensive about visiting Central Asia for the first time, I found Tashkent to be a surprisingly developed city. One of the most surprising aspects was the temperature! Contrary to the "Central Asia = dry and cool" image, it was as hot as Japan, with intense sunlight. The cityscape of Tashkent is a fascinating blend of development and modernity 🌆 ✅ A fusion of Soviet-era remnants and modern urban design 🏛️🏙️ The city features wide roads, green parks, and a mix of modern architecture, creating a unique landscape. While Soviet-era apartments remain, new skyscrapers and commercial facilities are on the rise. As the largest city in Central Asia, Tashkent boasts an impressive scale. ✅ Immaculately clean metro 🚇 Tashkent is home to Central Asia's only metro system, and its stations are artistically stunning. Built during the Soviet era, each station has a unique design. The "Kosmonavtlar Station," with its space-themed decorations, was particularly impressive! ✅ Cleanliness and safety 🌿 The city was more organized and cleaner than I expected, with very little litter. It also felt safe, even when walking at night. ✅ Friendly and kind locals 🤝 Many people were quick to offer help when I looked lost. Even with my limited Russian, they were kind and accommodating. Must-visit spots in Tashkent 🏛️ 📍 Hazrati Imam Complex 🕌 A symbol of Uzbekistan's Islamic culture, this complex features 16th-century mosques and madrasas adorned with beautiful blue tiles. It also houses the world's oldest Quran, the "Usman Quran." 📍 Amir Timur Square 🗿 This square features a statue of Uzbekistan's hero, Timur, on horseback. It's a central location surrounded by luxury hotels and shopping malls. The square is beautifully lit at night, creating a great atmosphere. 📍 Tashkent TV Tower 📡 Standing at 375 meters, it's the tallest structure in Central Asia. The observation deck offers a panoramic view of Tashkent. Built during the Soviet era, it has a retro vibe. 📍 Chorsu Bazaar 🛍️ Tashkent's largest market is a lively spot where you can experience local life. It offers everything from fresh fruits, spices, and nuts to traditional Uzbek dishes. The massive blue dome of the market is a sight to behold. 📍 Tashkent Metro 🚇 The metro stations, influenced by Soviet design, resemble art galleries. Recommended stations include: - "Kosmonavtlar Station" (space-themed blue decorations) - "Alisher Navoi Station" (inspired by Uzbek literature) - "Pakhtakor Station" (traditional blue tile patterns) Uzbek cuisine I enjoyed in Tashkent 🍽️ 🍛 Plov Uzbekistan's national dish! Made with lamb, rice, carrots, and spices, it resembles Japanese takikomi gohan. The freshly cooked plov from bazaar stalls was aromatic and delicious. 🥟 Manti Uzbek-style steamed dumplings filled with juicy lamb and seasoned with spices. They're traditionally eaten with sour cream. 🥖 Non Uzbekistan's bread culture is unique! The naan, crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, pairs well with any meal. ☕ Uzbek Chai In Uzbekistan, it's customary to drink chai after meals. This green tea, served without milk, has a simple flavor. Impressions and summary of Tashkent ✅ My first visit to Central Asia, and Tashkent turned out to be a much more developed city than I imagined! ✅ The infrastructure, including the metro and roads, was well-maintained and clean. ✅ Summers are as hot as Japan, so be prepared for strong sunlight. ✅ Uzbek cuisine is simple yet delicious, with plov being a standout dish. Tashkent is often called the "Gateway to Central Asia," and my visit helped me understand why. It's a unique place where urban development, Islamic culture, and Soviet heritage intersect, blending history and modernity in a fascinating way.