THE HAIRY GIRAFFE… IN UZBEKISTAN
Bringing back souvenirs from a trip is more than just a tradition; it’s capturing the very essence of a journey. Each item brought back in our suitcases becomes a tangible link to the cultures, landscapes, and unique experiences encountered around the world.
So, what souvenirs do we bring back from a trip to Uzbekistan?
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Uzbekistan is renowned for its vibrant fabrics and intricately decorated carpets. After all, we’re at the heart of the Silk Road! You’ll find numerous markets in Khiva, Bukhara, and Samarkand. You’ll be spoilt for choice if you wish to bring back silk, cotton, or wool fabrics. As expected along the Silk Road, Uzbek markets also abound with spices: cumin, paprika, sumac, and more.
Khiva is renowned for its ceramics adorned with delicate patterns. Bowls, plates, and ceramic tiles can be magnificent souvenirs that evoke traditional Islamic art.
Ikat is a centuries-old dyeing and weaving technique, producing unique and vibrant patterns. Ikat shawls, often handcrafted, are popular souvenirs in Uzbekistan. However, they tend to be quite expensive.
You’ll also find traditional fur hats, particularly in Khiva. They’re often worn during special occasions and come in a variety of styles and sizes. However, you might not feel inclined to wear the most extravagant models on a daily basis!
So, what souvenirs did we bring back?
We absolutely loved the small ceramic statues, available almost everywhere (although they were less expensive in Khiva and much pricier with lower quality in Samarkand).
We also brought back bread stamps: if you bake your own bread, you simply press the nails against the dough before baking. However, be cautious as the nails tend to rust, rendering the stamp more of a decorative kitchen item once its primary function is lost.
When one thinks of the Silk Road, camels often come to mind. Since silk garments remain quite expensive, we brought back a camel wool scarf—truly incredibly soft!
Lastly, let’s not forget that Uzbekistan is a former republic of the USSR: vodka culture remains prevalent. It’s the perfect opportunity to stock up. Moreover, Uzbekistan-produced vodka is much cheaper than the one made in Russia, even if both bottles are from the same brand. However, it’s advisable to plan for checked luggage to bring back that much liquid…
Find all our other articles on Uzbekistan (itinerary, our impressions, and more) here:
