Uzbekistan

Sophie Ibbotson and Max Lovell-Hoare have lived and worked in Central Asia since 2008. During this period they have become deeply involved in the region's tourism industry, devising national tourism strategies, advising USAid and OSCE on tourism development, promoting the destination through the BBC and print media and working with local companies to improve their offerings to tourists.

This is the most detailed guide to Central Asia's most populous country and the heart of the historic Silk Road. Strikingly beautiful yet little understood, "Uzbekistan" finally has a guide to inspire independent travelling, with all the in-depth practical information required, highlighting epic landscapes through to awe-inspiring architecture. Practical details are entwined with cultural, literary, social, religious and historical curiosities to make an entertaining companion and guide. It includes up-to-date and personal reviews of accommodation, restaurants and entertainment venues across all budgets. Alongside historical detail and anecdotes, exceptional colour photography brings to life places, people and local traditions as they appear today. Comprehensive bird-watching and wildlife sections are provided by experienced twitcher and BBC journalist Ben Tavener and there is a thorough introduction to the Uzbek and Russian languages.

A detailed guide to the heart of the historic Silk Road. It highlights Uzbekistan's strikingly beautiful epic landscapes through to awe-inspiring architecture. Practical details are entwined with cultural, religious and historical curiosities to make an entertaining companion. Comprehensive bird-watching and wildlife sections are provided by experienced twitcher and BBC journalist Ben Tavener.

Part One: General InformationChapter 1: Background informationChapter 2: Practical informationPart Two: The GuideChapter 3: Tashkent and environsChapter 4: Fergana Valley and the EastChapter 5: Samarkand and Dzhizak ProvincesChapter 6: Qasha Darya and Surkhan Darya ProvincesChapter 7: Navoi ProvinceChapter 8: Bukhara ProvinceChapter 9: Khorezm ProvinceChapter 10: Republic of KarakalpakstanAppendices and Index.