Uzbekistan Statistics

Capital:  Tashkent

Area:  447,400 km ²

Climate:  desert climate with long, hot summers and mild winters

Population:  27,606,007 (est. 2009)

Languages:  Uzbek, Karakalpak

Government-EconomyGovernment Type: Presidential republic

National Holiday: September 1 GDP: $85.188 billion (est. 2009)
GDP – per capita (PPP): $3,015 (est. 2009)

Information for Foreign Students in UzbekistanGetting There Tashkent airport itself is reasonably modern and has various international carriers operating as well as the national Uzbekistan Airways. Though the airport infrastructure is good, the staff is not. Expect pointless bureaucracy and an unhelpful attitude from most of them. Baggage claim and customs procedures can be time-consuming - allow two hours.

Obtaining a Visa Please visit the following website (http://mfa.uz/eng/mfa/web_links/) and find the link for the closest Uzbek embassy where you will find detailed information regarding the process for a student visa. Within 3 days of entrance to the country, you need to register an official statement indicating the address at which you are staying. Most hotels do this for you but if not then you must do it on your own. Just know, also, that at immigration you will be asked to declare all the money you are bringing into the country; just make sure you have less money when you leave, as the Uzbek government doesn't want foreign currency leaving the country.

Money Currency used in Uzbekistan is the som. However the US dollar is the foreign currency of choice. ATMs are generally unhelpful as they are often empty. Some cash machines do dispense US Dollars, but be sure not to leave the country with more foreign currency than you came with.

Health
Uzbekistan has not implemented a no-smoking policy in bars and restaurants, unlike many Western countries. Consequently, enclosed spaces can be very unpleasant for non-smokers, especially in the cold weather. Fruits and vegetables should be peeled before consumption. Avoid drinking Uzbek (locally produced) vodka. Most Uzbek Vodkas are not good and can even dangerous to your health.

Safety For the most part, Uzbekistan is generally safe for visitors, perhaps the by-product of a police state. Normal precautions should be taken, as one would in virtually any country. Especially in the cities (few travelers will spend much time overnight in the small villages), be careful after dark, avoid unlighted areas, and don't walk alone. Even during the day, refrain from openly showing significant amounts of cash. Men should keep wallets in a front pocket and women should keep purses in front of them with a strap around an arm. Avoid wearing flashy or valuable jewelry which can easily be snatched.

TransportationYou can travel by private taxi, minibus, or normal bus. While there are official taxis, most cars will become taxis if you wave them down. Meters are rare, so negotiate the price beforehand. During the day the metro(underground train)is the good option. After 12 p.m. you are recommended to use taxi services. It is better to call the taxi (car-service) to pick you up in advance. Some car-services can serve the foreign speaking tourists. You can get more information in the hotel.