Book review: Lonely Planet - Central Asia, by Bradley Mayhew et al
When one thinks of vacation spots, Central Asia doesn't always come to mind. But the five countries in the region - Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan - are slowly becoming travel destinations.
by Bradley Mayhew et al
Lonely Planet
4.5 stars
Audrey Sze
When one thinks of vacation spots, Central Asia doesn't always come to mind. But the five countries in the region - Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan - are slowly becoming travel destinations.
Their natural beauty and centuries of history make for some of the most underrated, best-kept secrets in the world.
The latest Lonely Planet guide offers a selection of itineraries for those looking to hit specific landmarks and routes, such as tracing the footsteps of early traders along the ancient Silk Road or trekking, and horse-riding alongside local nomadic herders across the mountainous valleys of Karakol and Altyn Arashan in Kyrgyzstan.
For those wishing to travel back to the times of Alexander the Great, Genghis Khan and Tamerlane, there's the historical city of Merv, in Turkmenistan. The city is a Unesco World Heritage Site, and home to archaeological remains dating back to the Bronze Age. Or visit the city of Samarkand in Uzbekistan for some of the world's most breathtaking Islamic architecture lined with colourful tile works.
Lastly, for a sensory overload, make a quick pit stop at the local bazaars selling spices, teas, herbs and dried fruit.