Ten Reasons to Visit Samarkand, Uzbekistan
There are many reasons to visit Samarkand, most notably its status as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Central Asia. For more than… Read More »Ten Reasons to Visit Samarkand, Uzbekistan
Samarkand – Comprehensive Guide for Travelers
Samarkand is, by any reasonable measure, an ancient city. It has been continuously inhabited for more than 2,750 years, making it one of the world’s… Read More »Samarkand – Comprehensive Guide for Travelers
Real Reasons Behind Dodo Extinction in Mauritius
Everyone who visits the beautiful island of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean inevitably comes across the sad story of the dodo – a flightless bird… Read More »Real Reasons Behind Dodo Extinction in Mauritius
The Pamplemousses Botanical Gardens in Mauritius – Visitor Guide
The Pamplemousses Botanical Gardens were opened in 1770. The land for the gardens was chosen much earlier, back in 1736. This is the first botanical… Read More »The Pamplemousses Botanical Gardens in Mauritius – Visitor Guide
La Pirogue Mauritius – Hotel Review
If you love Africa, visiting the gorgeous island of Mauritius is a must. It offers so many natural wonders, like beautiful waterfalls, the Seven Colored… Read More »La Pirogue Mauritius – Hotel Review
Top Ten Things to Do in Mauritius with Kids
If you visit the island Mauritius, you will quickly discover that there are many things to do with kids. From whale watching to exploring the… Read More »Top Ten Things to Do in Mauritius with Kids
Ten Interesting Facts about Mauritius
Listing ten interesting facts about Mauritius is easy. This small island in the middle of the Indian Ocean is not only incredibly beautiful, but also… Read More »Ten Interesting Facts about Mauritius
Packing List for Drive, Chip and Putt Golf Tournament
The Drive, Chip and Putt junior golf tournament only happens once a year. So, it’s important to make sure that your child takes all the… Read More »Packing List for Drive, Chip and Putt Golf Tournament
How to Prepare for Drive, Chip and Putt Tournament
Drive, Chip and Putt is one of the most popular junior golf tournaments. In order to sign up your child for this tournament, you have… Read More »How to Prepare for Drive, Chip and Putt Tournament
Best Time to Visit Uzbekistan
The best time to visit Uzbekistan will depend on two main factors. First, the objectives of your trip. Are you coming to see the major… Read More »Best Time to Visit Uzbekistan
Top Ten Things to Do with Kids in Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Tashkent has a lot of great places to visit with kids. This is not surprising, given that Uzbekistan has a very young population and many… Read More »Top Ten Things to Do with Kids in Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Where to Find the Best Plov in Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan is famous for its plov. Both locals and foreigners enjoy eating it. In Tashkent, there are so many places where you can try this… Read More »Where to Find the Best Plov in Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Institute of Sun – Interesting Day Trip from Tashkent
Tashkent offers ample opportunities for day trips. One of the attractions which you can see while visiting Parkent is the Institute of Sun. The drive… Read More »Institute of Sun – Interesting Day Trip from Tashkent
Living in Tashkent: Comprehensive Guide for Expats
When our family was planning to move from the US to Uzbekistan for a couple of years, we read a lot of online information. Some… Read More »Living in Tashkent: Comprehensive Guide for Expats
Sukok Forest – Perfect Day Trip from Tashkent
Sukok Forest is a great place to visit if you want to go hiking near Tashkent. Everyone will agree: Tashkent is a nice place to… Read More »Sukok Forest – Perfect Day Trip from Tashkent
Best Restaurants in Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Even before I moved to Tashkent, I knew that Uzbekistan was famous for its food. After spending almost three years living in this country as… Read More »Best Restaurants in Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Detailed Guide to Visiting Fergana Valley, Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan is famous for many impressive historical landmarks, so Samarkand and Bukhara are some of the first cities you’d normally visit. But if you want… Read More »Detailed Guide to Visiting Fergana Valley, Uzbekistan
Pyramids of Giza & Cairo Tour – Detailed Guide
Are you interested in visiting the Egyptian pyramids? If so, our recent experience with the Pyramids of Giza and Cairo 1-day tour may be useful.… Read More »Pyramids of Giza & Cairo Tour – Detailed Guide
Fifteen Interesting Facts about Uzbekistan (by an Expat)
Are you considering visiting or relocating to Uzbekistan? If so, it’s a good idea to learn some basic facts about this country. In this post,… Read More »Fifteen Interesting Facts about Uzbekistan (by an Expat)
From Travel to Fiction: How I Wrote a Novel Inspired by my Trips
I’ve always been an avid traveler, but the idea of writing fiction novels inspired by my travel only came to my mind a few years… Read More »From Travel to Fiction: How I Wrote a Novel Inspired by my Trips
Amirsoy Ski Resort in Uzbekistan- Detailed Visitor’s Guide
If you happen to be in Tashkent in winter and like alpine skiing or snowboarding, you are in luck. An international ski resort called Amirsoy… Read More »Amirsoy Ski Resort in Uzbekistan- Detailed Visitor’s Guide
Ten Mistakes to Avoid When Visiting Dubai
Everyone who has been to Dubai will agree: this place is incredible. It’s a city like no other. A tourist paradise with millions of things… Read More »Ten Mistakes to Avoid When Visiting Dubai
Top Ten Things to Do with Kids in Dubai
Dubai is a paradise for families with kids. If you want to have fun and are willing to pay for it, you’re definitely in the… Read More »Top Ten Things to Do with Kids in Dubai
Jaz Belvedere Resort, Sharm el Sheikh – Hotel Review
Our family stayed at the Jaz Belvedere Resort, Sharm el Sheikh in the fall of 2024. This five star resort is part of the Jaz… Read More »Jaz Belvedere Resort, Sharm el Sheikh – Hotel Review
Best Hotels and Resorts in Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt
Sharm el Sheikh boasts many excellent hotels and resorts to choose from. Here, you will find large resorts of major hotel chains (e.g., Four Seasons),… Read More »Best Hotels and Resorts in Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt
Diving and Snorkeling with Kids in Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt
Sharm el Sheikh is a world famous snorkeling and diving destination. Consequently, if you come here, you want to make sure you and your kids… Read More »Diving and Snorkeling with Kids in Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt
Rano Eco Village – Lovely Day Trip from Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Rano Eco Village is located about 40 km away from Tashkent in the Parkent district, making it ideal for a relaxing day trip from Uzbekistan’s… Read More »Rano Eco Village – Lovely Day Trip from Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Top Ten Reasons to Visit Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt
Sharm el Sheikh is a renowned tourist destination on the Red Sea coast of Egypt. I visited it multiple times and always marveled at the… Read More »Top Ten Reasons to Visit Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt
7 Day Ultimate Orlando Itinerary for Families
Orlando, FL is a magnet for families with kids. The city houses over 18 different amusement parks which will appeal to every taste. These include… Read More »7 Day Ultimate Orlando Itinerary for Families
Titanic – the Artifact Exhibition in Orlando, Florida
The Titanic artifact exhibition in Orlando is a great place to visit if you want to take a little break from amusement parks, the noise… Read More »Titanic – the Artifact Exhibition in Orlando, Florida
3 Days in Paris: The Perfect Itinerary for Your Visit
Paris is a perfect city to spend a couple of days. The challenge is, there are so many things to do. Without careful planning, you… Read More »3 Days in Paris: The Perfect Itinerary for Your Visit
Bukhara, Uzbekistan: The Ultimate Visitor’s Guide
Bukhara is an ancient city which strikes the visitors by its beautiful architecture and relaxed atmosphere. As soon as you make your way to the… Read More »Bukhara, Uzbekistan: The Ultimate Visitor’s Guide
5 Day Washington DC Itinerary – History, Hiking, Art and Culture
I moved to DC about two decades ago and never regretted it. Washington is a wonderful place to live in. It’s also a great city… Read More »5 Day Washington DC Itinerary – History, Hiking, Art and Culture
The Hope Diamond and other Famous Gems in Washington DC
You’ve probably heard of the iconic Hope Diamond. But do you know the incredible history behind it? And are you aware that the diamond is… Read More »The Hope Diamond and other Famous Gems in Washington DC
Tips for Visiting Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Without doubt, Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is one of the best museums in DC. Its vast collection will take you on a tour… Read More »Tips for Visiting Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Complete Guide to Smithsonian National Zoo in DC
The National Zoological Park (or simply National Zoo) is one of the best places families can visit in Washington DC. This 163-acre zoo is one… Read More »Complete Guide to Smithsonian National Zoo in DC
NOVA Wild – Interactive Zoo in Reston, VA
NOVA Wild is an interactive zoo located in Reston, VA (about 40 minute drive from DC). It’s a good option for a day trip from… Read More »NOVA Wild – Interactive Zoo in Reston, VA
National Museum of the American Indian in Washington DC
The National Museum of the American Indian is a great place for families to spend their morning or afternoon. This museum is part of the… Read More »National Museum of the American Indian in Washington DC
Landmarks of Paris: La Madeleine
The Church of Saint-Marie-Madeleine (or simply La Madeleine) is a famous Catholic church in central Paris. It’s located on Place de la Madeleine in the… Read More »Landmarks of Paris: La Madeleine
Landmarks of Paris: The Pantheon
The Pantheon is a monumental structure with a large stone dome situated in the Latin Quarter of Paris. This landmark is famous for its grandiose… Read More »Landmarks of Paris: The Pantheon
Disneyland Paris: One Day Itinerary
Is it worth visiting Disneyland Paris for just 1 day? Many families come to Paris for only one week, or even several days. Naturally, the… Read More »Disneyland Paris: One Day Itinerary
Top Ten Things to Do in Paris with Kids
Paris is a fantastic city to visit with kids. In this post, I’ve listed ten activities which are fun, interesting and relatively light, so that… Read More »Top Ten Things to Do in Paris with Kids
Zaamin National Park in Uzbekistan – Tips for Your First Visit
Zaamin National Park is usually not on the radar of tourists who visit Uzbekistan. Let’s face it: Uzbekistan is most widely known for its ancient… Read More »Zaamin National Park in Uzbekistan – Tips for Your First Visit
Magic City Tashkent – All You Need to Know Before Your Visit
Magic City Tashkent (“Tashkent Disneyland”) is a modern amusement park in Tashkent that was opened several years ago. Both adults and children will find the… Read More »Magic City Tashkent – All You Need to Know Before Your Visit
Ten Must See Artworks in Paris and Amazing Stories Behind Them
Paris has thousands and thousands of incredible artworks in its collections. It’s impossible to see them all during your visit to Paris, no matter how… Read More »Ten Must See Artworks in Paris and Amazing Stories Behind Them
Chateau de Fontainebleau: Ultimate Visitor’s Guide
If you are visiting Paris, one of the best day trips you can take is to see the Royal Chateau de Fontainebleau. Brief history of… Read More »Chateau de Fontainebleau: Ultimate Visitor’s Guide
Golf in Tashkent
Tashkent offers great opportunities for playing golf. The weather in Uzbekistan is quite mild, with little rain and many warm days even throughout winter. Not… Read More »Golf in Tashkent
Guide to Visiting Bongoyo Island, Tanzania
Visiting Bongoyo Island is one of the best day trips you can take in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Bongoyo is a small uninhabited island with… Read More »Guide to Visiting Bongoyo Island, Tanzania
Our First Six Months in Tashkent
Moving to a new country is never easy. Saying goodbye to your friends, relatives and favorite places is heartbreaking. Packing all your belongings is a… Read More »Our First Six Months in Tashkent
An Unforgettable Trip to Zanzibar
When my work first took me on a trip to Zanzibar some years ago, I felt incredibly lucky. I was finally going to see the… Read More »An Unforgettable Trip to Zanzibar
Winter in Tashkent
This is our family’s first winter in Tashkent. We moved to Tashkent from Washington DC in August of 2023. With all the settling in, time… Read More »Winter in Tashkent
Tashkent Zoo – History, Exhibits, Activities, Pictures of Animals
Visiting Tashkent Zoo is one of the best activities for families in Tashkent. It’s perfect for kids. Adults will also find the trip to the… Read More »Tashkent Zoo – History, Exhibits, Activities, Pictures of Animals
Five Things to Do and See in Abu Dhabi
When I think about Abu Dhabi, several things immediately come to mind. Stunning mosques. Gorgeous palaces. Tremendous hospitality. An ability to relax and not to… Read More »Five Things to Do and See in Abu Dhabi
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi
I immediately spotted this masterpiece when I was in a taxi, going to my hotel from the airport in Abu Dhabi. The snow white domes… Read More »Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi
First Junior Tennis Tournament in the US- Tips for Parents
At 7 years of age, my daughter Elizabeth has just completed her first junior tennis tournament in the Washington DC area. She played at the… Read More »First Junior Tennis Tournament in the US- Tips for Parents
Guide to Visiting Uganda
When I think about Uganda, many things immediately come to mind. First, the gorgeous weather all year round. Uganda lies on the equator. The weather… Read More »Guide to Visiting Uganda
Perfect Family Vacation in Jekyll Island, GA
Jekyll Island is an amazing place to visit. It has rich history, great hotels, awesome restaurants, nice weather, fresh air, and a lot of things… Read More »Perfect Family Vacation in Jekyll Island, GA
Beautiful Kyiv-Forever in my Heart
The golden domes of the Saint Sophia Cathedral glittering in the sun. The snow-white flowers crowning the mighty chestnut trees in the spring. The gorgeous… Read More »Beautiful Kyiv-Forever in my Heart
Hryhoriy Skovoroda-a Famous Ukrainian Writer, Minimalist, and Avid Traveler
Ukrainian literature is beautiful and rich. It boasts a long list of famous writers and poets. I was lucky enough to take classes from a… Read More »Hryhoriy Skovoroda-a Famous Ukrainian Writer, Minimalist, and Avid Traveler
Crimea–the Beautiful Gem You’d Want to Visit Some Day
Crimea has always been a very special place for me and my family. We used to go to the southern coast of Crimea for summer… Read More »Crimea–the Beautiful Gem You’d Want to Visit Some Day
War in Ukraine-a Glimpse of Hope in the Darkness
Ever since February 24, 2022 happened, the lives of all Ukrainians changed forever. We found out what the word “war” actually means. The relentless Russian… Read More »War in Ukraine-a Glimpse of Hope in the Darkness