Uzbekistan

Travel tips for Uzbekistan: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Cards widely accepted. While Visa and Mastercard work well in major cities, hotels, and the Yandex taxi app, travelers advise carrying local cash (UZS) for bazaars, rural areas, and as a backup for occasional foreign card glitches.

Try the food

Plov (Palov): A hearty, slow-cooked rice pilaf layered with tender lamb or beef, yellow carrots, onions, and sometimes raisins or chickpeas.
Shashlik: Skewered and charcoal-grilled chunks of marinated meat, typically mutton or beef, served with thinly sliced raw onions.
Manti: Large, steamed dumplings filled with minced meat, fat, and onions, usually served with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt.
Samsa (Somsa): Flaky, tandoor-baked pastry triangles stuffed with savory fillings like minced lamb, onions, or pumpkin.

Say it in Uzbek

Hello: Salom
Thank you: Rahmat
Please: Iltimos
Excuse me: Kechirasiz
How much is this?: Bu qancha turadi?
The bill please: Hisobni keltiring
Yes / No: Ha / Yo'q
Goodbye: Xayr

Essentials

Voltage: 220V, 50Hz
Driving: Right side
SIM tip: Purchase a local SIM card from Beeline, Ucell, or Mobiuz at the official kiosks in Tashkent International Airport, or install a regional eSIM before you travel.

Etiquette

Always use your right hand to give or receive items, especially money or food, and check your restaurant bill for an included 10-15% service charge before leaving an additional tip.