The benefit of saying Yes! . . . occaisionally.

A beautiful Suzani embroidery


 It is now 111 days till I leave for my 2 tours of Uzbekistan. The original tour sold out so fast, we had to add another, which will start on March 23rd. I get breathless with excitement just thinking about it . .

 Since my move to Ireland I haven't been saying Yes! to too many things, I wanted to settle into my new environment and not get too distracted. And then came Covid, so I REALLY settled in. So when Isha from Aahilya Holidays first asked me to lead a tour for her, I said no. 

You may remember that I led 4 tours to Jaipur with Jamie from Coluricious in the early days of tutors of and artists leading travel tours. I think I felt that I had done with travel and I was happy to be settled where I was.

Discover new foods
 

However, I have always dreamed of exploring Uzbekistan, the colours, the textures and the general romance of the country. But never, ever, thought I would be able to actually go. So when Isha suggested we go to Uzbekistan - I said Yes! It was as simple as that. I am now devouring any book I can find about Uzbekistan, it's history and it's culture. What a privilege and an opportunity.

The tours will offer an in depth look at the stunning Islamic architecture and the beautiful textiles that are created in this fascinating country. Such wonderful design inspiration. All that colour and texture - I just can't wait to get there.

There are just 2 places left on the tour that leaves on March 23rd 2025. If you have ever been intrigued by the history of the Silk Route and want to learn more about it, then this is the tour for you . . 

Here is the link to the tour, you can see the full itinerary here -www.aahilyaholidays.com

Pomegranates are a popular design motif in Uzbekistan. They are depicted in such rich colour.

This will be a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture of this remarkable country. I am particularly interested in the strong clean shapes of the Islamic architecture. Because the forms of the buildings are simple, you really notice the glorious coloured tiles in geometric designs.

Wonderful geometric designs. Fabulous design inspiration.


Exquisite colour and design

The simple forms of the buildings allow the coloruful tile designs to show off to best advantage.
 

Beautiful ceramics decorated in traditional Uzbek designs

 
I can't wait to see, and handle, the gloriously coloured Suzani embroideries. I am sure a few will be coming back home with me.

I have already started to pack a few things into my travel bag. I will be packing very light as I will be buying an extra case in Uzbekistan to fill with some beautiful things that I couldn't possibly leave behind.

It really is a dream come true.


 x x x

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