Alessio Viviani, hometown — Brescia, Italy, age 27, airline pilot, @alessio_viviani_photography
About trip to Uzbekistan
I have a big passion for photography, traveling, and aviation. I have been traveling for about 10 years and I have visited about 25 countries so far. I chose Uzbekistan because I wanted to visit and explore more of Central Asia. Plus I was inspired by pictures of architecture. I heard about Uzbekistan by name, but I didn't know anything about it before the travel.
I chose Uzbekistan because I wanted to visit and explore more of Central Asia
In Uzbekistan, I have been to Tashkent, Bukhara, Khiva, and Samarkand. I have been in the country for 10 full days, and if you have the same time available I would suggest visiting all of these cities. If you have less time, Khiva and Samarkand have been the best for me.
About expectations and impressions
I was expecting to find extraordinary architecture and culture, find good people and amazing places to film and photograph. Expectations matched the reality for sure. I have been watching the sunset in front of the Registan in Samarkand, not for one but two times. Simply magic.
The first impression was about a safe, beautiful and pleasant country
The first impression was about a safe, beautiful and pleasant country. I arrived at night and I was looking forward to waking up the morning after and go explore the capital. It was one of the most beautiful trips I have done in my life.
About favorite places and architecture of Uzbekistan
Samarkand and Khiva have been the cities I liked most. Mainly because there are many historical and religious sites to visit and they are all very beautiful. In Tashkent, unfortunately, a few places were closed for restoration. What I especially loved is the architecture and historic buildings. All the mosques are beautiful and unique and are worth a visit.
In Samarkand, I loved the Registan for its history and architecture and for the beautiful sunset you can enjoy just watching the main square. In Tashkent, I liked the Chorsu bazaar for the atmosphere and crowd. I loved walking inside the ancient city in Khiva and explore every corner of this small citadel. I liked walking around the main square in front of Nadir Divan-begi Madrasah in Bukhara.
About people and national cuisine of Uzbekistan
I spent only 10 days in this country, but I have always found friendly, nice and passionate people. People speak a little bit of English around, and if they don't we could always find a way to understand each other with gestures or pictures.
I have also liked the cuisine which I would define simple but tasty. I have tried the Shurpa, Lagman, Manti, Somsa, different kebabs and of course the Uzbek bread. I liked most of the dishes especially the Lagman, which I have got almost every day.
About plans
My life plan is to travel as much as I can, and I am lucky to travel when I work. So I plan to travel and take pictures. I am planning to visit Vietnam, Bhutan, Cambodia, Laos in the near future.
