Touching down in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, marked a personal milestone – my 70th country visited. This ancient city, a jewel of the Silk Road, is over 2,750 years old, rivaling the age of Rome in its historical depth. My exploration today was enriched by the company of an Indian couple and their enthusiastic 5-year-old son, along with Ismira, our knowledgeable local Uzbek guide, whose passion for her city’s history and culture was infectious.

Our first stop was the magnificent Gur Emir Mausoleum. The intricacy of its Islamic architecture and the striking azure of its dome were breathtaking. But it was the Registan that truly captivated us. This iconic square, bordered by the architectural wonders of the Ulugbek Madrasah, Sher-Dor Madrasah, and Tillya Kori Madrasah, stood as a testament to Samarkand’s storied past. The young boy’s eyes sparkled with wonder at the sight, mirroring my own awe in the face of such historic grandeur.

We meandered through the Bibi Khanym Mosque, absorbing its grand scale and storied past, and then onto the Shah-i-Zinda, a necropolis known for its stunning avenue of mausoleums adorned with vivid blue tiles. The day culminated in the lively Siab Bazaar, a sensory overload of colors, sounds, and smells, offering a slice of everyday Uzbek life.