Built as part of a programme to create a showcase of Soviet arts, architecture, ambition and ability, the Tashkent metro system is well worth the descent into the underworld to see it’s fabulous, varied stations.

The Savitsky Museum. Nukus, Karakalpakstan, Uzbekistan. A fabulous tale of art salvation, subterfuge and obsession, resulting in the world’s second largest collection of Soviet avant-garde artworks, deep in the deserts of Karakalpakstan.

Everyone is advised to travel to Uzbekistan during two short shoulder seasons. Are they missing out? We think they might be….by travelling in winter you get to see all landmarks without crowds and in bright and glorious winter sunshine. We’d definitely urge you to consider travelling ‘out of season’

Uzbekistan is rightly lauded for it’s wonderful ceramics. Many visit only the workshops in the Fergana valley, in Tashkent or perhaps Gijduvan. We particularly love the 17-generation family workshop of Ustad Oblakulov in Urgut, Uzbekistan. Some of our favourite things in our kitchen in Wales are from this very place.

Ayaz Kala

Madina Kasimbaeva master embroiderer, Tashkent, Uzbekistan