In From the Cold - Central Asia

With a rich culture and stunning natural landscapes, Central Asia is slated as one of the most popular emerging travel destinations for the year ahead, and for good reason.

If Central Asia isn’t already on your travel radar, perhaps it should be. With increased air access, the nations that make up Central Asia have opened up to tourism, allowing travelers the opportunity to soak up centuries of Silk Road history, delve into myriad cultures and traditions and explore the region’s pristine beauty. 

Georgia 

Already a destination that has seduced thousands of travellers with its world-class cuisine, ancient wine culture and friendly locals, Georgia is another locale at the intersection of Europe and Asia is reowned for its diverse landscapes, ancient history and vibrant culture. Spend some time in Tbilisi, the capital city, which offers a mix of old and new, with historic churches and timeless sulfur baths juxtaposed with modern architecture. 

If you’re a wine lover, head for the Kakheti wine region, consider the birthplace of wine, and famed for its boutique wineries. Alternatively, hike the many trails of Kazbegi National Park, including Mount Kazbek, before finding reflection at the stunning Gergeti Trinity Church, or step back in time at the ancient cave cities of Uplistsikhe and Vardzia. 

Uzbekistan

Another immensely popular Central Asia destination is Uzbekistan, and while Kazakhstan is thriving with modernity, Uzbekistan seems happy to stay in the past, with the country dotted with ancient palaces, mosques and mausoleums, many connected by the country’s very efficient high-speed railway network. Start off with a bustling visit to the fascinating Chorsu Bazaar and the Hazrati Imam complex, home to the ancient Quran of Caliph Utman, as well as beautiful Islamic architecture. 

Samarkand’s Registan Square is one of the country’s most iconic attractions and is wreathed by three madrashs adorned with intricate tilework; while history buffs will love the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, one of the largest and most magnificent in the Islamic world. You’ll also want to visit Bukhara for its Ark Fortress, an ancient citadel dating from the 5th century; Lyab-i Hauz, a historic plaza with a reflecting pool, surrounded by madrasahs and teahouses. If you have time, explore Khiva, with its UNESCO-listed walled city protecting well-preserved mosques, madrasahs and palaces; or delve into the Fergana Valley, a region famed for its silk production and timeless ceramics.

Armenia 

Best visited in the spring and autumn, the mountainous nation of Armenia is only now becoming a popular travel destination, especially among nature seekers and hikers. After exploring the capital, Yerevan, make the serene Lake Sevan, home to the picturesque Sevanavank Monastery with its stunning views of the lake (the largest in the country) and surrounding mountains, before following the walking trails of Dilijan National Park, known as the “Armenian Switzerland,” thanks to its lush forests and scenic landscapes.

It's easy to monastery-hop in Armenia as the country has more than its fair share, from the Haghartsin Monastery and Goshavank Monastery, known for its intricate stone carvings to the Tatev Monastery, accessible via the Wings of Tatev, the world’s longest reversible cable car. You’ll also love Gyumri’s old town, famed for its traditional architecture, cobblestone streets and vibrant cultural scene, and if you love wine, make for the Areni region, one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world, where you can sample local cuisine and vintages at boutique family-owned wineries.