The trip includes a visit to the Aral Sea which is a frightening realisation of what man can do to the environment in a relatively short space of time. Quite thought provoking. The rest of the trip is spent bathing in the fantastic architecture of Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand and reliving the glory days of the Silk Road. Although slightly touristy in some aspects this does not detract from the unique splendours and sights which are a "must see" in your lifetime.