Hello there!
Is this a strange question? Let me give you some context first.
We’re heading to Uzbekistan with a group of six friends. We’ve been close since our youth, though life has scattered us to different cities. The plan is a 12-night road trip from Tashkent to Khiva.
But this isn’t just a casual getaway. We’re also celebrating our husbands’ birthdays. And not just any birthdays—all three of them were born in March of the same year, and they’re hitting a milestone: 60!
So, here I am, racking my brain for something special to gift them during our trip. I always aim to give “joy and great memories” rather than physical items. Past gifts included paragliding in Armenia’s SkyPark and Thai massages by the beach. But what kind of unique experiences can I offer “our boys” in Uzbekistan? For now, I know one birthday will be in Bukhara and the other two in Khiva.
We also want to capture some unforgettable photos in traditional Uzbek clothing. Any suggestions on where to do this for the most authentic backdrop?
in Samarkand, at the Ulugh Beg Madrasa in the Registan complex, there’s a little shop where you can rent both men’s and women’s traditional clothing. Photos taken there, amidst the iconic architecture, will definitely stand out. However, renting a full outfit isn’t cheap—it can cost anywhere between 150,000 and 350,000 UZS per set.
In Bukhara and Khiva, there are plenty of street vendors selling colorful skullcaps and other traditional items. You can always try them on for free and snap a picture or two if you don’t feel like buying.
P.S. Keep in mind that what takes two hours by train can take 4.5 hours by car. And the last 100 km from Bukhara to Khiva? Locals still call it “the very bad road” because the highway isn’t fully constructed yet.
in Bukhara
Here are some ideas:
Thanks for the suggestions! I’d already been considering the hammam idea.
Just yesterday, my friend and I were reading about it and laughing. Apparently, the Old Bukhara Baths, built in the 16th century, have never been renovated. Locals use them until 3 PM, but after that, you can rent the place privately. Each guest gets their own bath attendant who will entertain you with stories about local life, give you a massage, and bathe you.
Now, how do we convince our elders to entrust themselves to this experience?
As for the Shukhov Tower—I hadn’t heard of it, but I’ll look it up!