The name Uzbekistan carries with it an air of mystery. During our trip along the Silk Road, I was amazed to discover that three of the Silk Road’s most important cities lie in Uzbekistan: Khiva, Bukhara, and Samarkand. These cities were key stops for traders passing by with their caravans and camels loaded with silk, spices, and other items. Today, Uzbekistan is opening up to tourists — but get here quick, because this country is poised on the edge of mass tourism!