22 to 26 Sep, 2022 - Tashkent - (Uzbekistan)
After our minbus to the border, we crossed in to Uzekistan on foot. Since the distance from the border to Tashkent down town is not great, the easiest way to go is by taxi. Our driver was named Aladdin. He made a comment about having a Jasmine at home, but surely that was a joke. He promised he was not a genie, and was unable to grant wishes.
Our time here in Tashkent was very low key and unstressed. A few days which were uncluttered. Staying with a friend, Caroline, we just got in to a laidback, Tashkent rhythm. Eating and markets, some mosques, and some errands. Jo had some sewing done, and I got a shave. My shave felt a little rushed, but I realised why - as I paid, and we were ushered out of the shop, the barber grabbed his prayer mat, locked the door, and hurried with the throngs for Friday prayers.
Walking back through the market, with many stalls temporarilly abandoned, we noticed some opportunistic thieves taking advantage of the absent marketeers. A couple of pigeons were helpting themselves to the piles of nuts and grains that were still arranged and on display for potential sale.
Doesn't Everyone have a Friend Living in Tashkent
Caroline, a former colleague of Jo's, now living in Tashkent, who is putting us up in her apartment while we spend some time here.
Chorsu Bazaar
Looking down in the bustling market place of Tashkent's Chorsu Bazaar. This is just the inner building, the original heart of the market, which now spans multiple city blocks in every direction. It is the largest market in Central Asia.
Prayer Hall
Inside the Hazrati Imom Friday Mosque. A recent construction, yet soon to be superseded by a shadowing construction almost next door. Inside was nice to visit, not so typically decorated with unusual colours and straying from the typical patterns. Outside, beautiful green marble and wooden features gave it a more traditional look.
“Please Give me more Attention”
Nunu. Or as we started calling her, Noonesy. Caroline's adorable dog. Heaven forbid if you should stop patting her for a minute or two.
Building of the Museum of Applied Arts
The small museum is contained in a handful of small buildings on the grounds of this house. The building itself is a true item of the collection.
Pottery Man on a Donkey
An item in the collection - Museum of Applied Arts, Tashkent.
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