Spring Social - Republics of the Silk Road

Description

6p Social

6:30p Dinner and presentation

Presented by Stephen Carmichal, Ph.D. and Susan Stoddard

“Journeying aboard the Golden Eagle, we will travel through the magnificent ‘Five Stans’ – a fascinating patchwork of countries, stitched together by a shared history of Sovietisation, yet fiercely independent in identity. From the magnificent mosques and bustling bazaars of Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan to the breath-taking verdant expanse and ethereally tranquil landscapes of Tajikistan and Kazakhstan, this incredible 14-day adventure is your invitation to one of the world’s greatest train journeys.”

Actually, we only visited 4 “Stans”: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan.  Why not Turkmenistan?  The historical sites were as magnificent as expected, but we were surprised at the modern architecture and cleanliness of the cities. Marriage customs varied by country; some brides were “kidnapped”.  In another country families spent their fortunes on a wedding. Food both on and off the train was very generous, varied and beautifully presented.  The journey was an opportunity for us to learn about and sample life in a part of the world many Americans don’t get to experience!