Penjikent to Samarkand Days 32 May 31st 2019
(Title from The Golden Journey to Samarkand by James Elroy Flecker )
Our final morning in Tajikistan with Guide Extraordinairre Afredan. On to another “Stan” and another border crossing.
Goodbye Tajikistan we will be back.
As we made our way towards Samarkand – once part of Tajikistan- until the complex history of the regions and Stalin redrew boundaries in the 1940s.
A short stop at the excavation of ancient Sarazm and shortly after that we were hauling bags out of the car for the final time. A sad goodbye and the long walk across no-mans land. A cheery generous goodbye from the Tajik border guards and an equally friendly generous welcome from the Uzbek guards.
And on to Samarkand. I had high hopes – childhood stories of Ancient Samarkand, early poems, romantic notions.
Once through formalities we stood waiting – we figure with packs and gear we are easy to spot. We could not see a likely driver until Sharvkhat popped up with sign under his arm! On to the much anticipated Samarkand.
Immediately set out from hotel to explore our area heading towards the Plov restaurant recommended we lost our way in a very pleasant amble through the tree lined streets and parks. Settled for a Plov lunch (for me) and Samsa (for him) at a place we stumbled upon – Afrodita Super Osh – simple restaurant, delicious Plov and perfect Samsa – light crisp layered pastry around a filling of meat, onions and juice.
As we finished lunch the rain came suddenly and heavily. Decided on afternoon siesta and exploration of the famous Registan Square later in the day.
Our evening time at Registan Square was spent watching and photographing the changing light. Watching the sunset catch the buildings. Watching the people promenading, sightseeing, picnicing and taking our photo.
