27/8 - Turkmenabat to Bukhara

Not many distance planned for the day, therefore a more relaxed kick-off.

First challenge started with finding the way out of Turkmenabat towards the border, however after a couple of U-turns and picking up a Turkmen taxi driver and hitchhiker, we found our way towards the border. We arrived at the border around 1pm, time enough to enjoy a tasteful lunch in front of the gate which would open around 2pm. Less than 2 hours later and 3 Sprites less, we entered Uzbekistan, avoiding on the edge the thermometer presented by the local doctor, looking after swine flu.

The first impressions over Uzbekistan were comforting us as everyone wave and smile, welcoming us. The discovery of Bukhara exceeds our expectations with dozens of ancient madrassas, mosques and forts. The old city has proven itself well protected as it took us over an hour to find a way in. the sugar on the pie came with a tasteful local dinner on joyful Lyabi Hauz Square where many Uzbeks meet at night.

As we plan to stay two nights in Bukhara, thanks to our current progress, it became also the right time for some laundry :-)

To be continued..

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