One Couple - One Guide

Andre (driver) and Furkat (guide)

Due to a series of unfortunate incidents the other travelers who were going to join us for the Uzbekistan pre-trip all had to cancel.  That left Randall and me as the only travelers in our “group”.  Our small entourage consists of 2 travelers, one guide and one driver.

I’ve talked with travelers who enjoy this type of travel, but frankly I was a bit concerned about how it would work out.

• What if we don’t like our guide?  We do.
• What if we run out of things to say or can’t think of questions to ask?  Not a problem.
• Will our guide eat meals with us?  Yes, most of the time and it’s wonderful to have someone who can interpret the menu and customs.
• What if we get bored with one another?  Not yet!

On the road to Shakhrisabze

Muslim curator of Jewish synagogue

After several days we’ve decided this is a great way to travel.  We can adjust the schedule for longer times in areas of interest and shorter times in others.  

• Want to take a photo?  We’ll wait.
• See something not on the itinerary?  Stop and do it.
• Want an afternoon snooze?  No problem.  
• Not interested in buying carpets?  We’re out of here!
• Have a question?  You’ve got an answer.  

We ran into some other OAT travelers a couple days ago.  They are on the same trip we are - just one day ahead.  I’m surprised OAT didn't ask us if we would move up a day to join them rather than provide a car and driver just for us, but we’re glad they didn’t.

Home visit to learn to make Samarkand bread.