Khiva

2 September 2012

I am staying with a family in the old town of Khiva.

This always me to get a unique insight into their family life whilst taking in the beauty of this well preserved old town with a trading history which included a market for slaves. The streets wind in between mosques, medrasssas and palaces. All have the mud and brick walls typical of this region and most are ornate with exquisite blue tiles.

Yesterday the town was packed with people as it was independence day in Uzbekistan. It was great to see families, friends and couples having such a great day out. I have some funny photos of people enjoying rides on the very dated ferris wheel, children eating hotdogs and kebabs and the police trying to stop young couples wondering off into the woods!