These slow Soviet-era trains plying the 4669km of track offer a inexpensive, unhurried way of exploring this Central Asian republic, connecting the capital city of Tashkent with Samarkand, Bukhara of Silk Road fame.

Creature comforts are in short supply, with intermittent ceiling fans to combat the heat of the Qizilqum "red sand" Desert skipping past your window, a samovar for hot drinks at the end of each carriage & dusty berth spruced up with fresh linen. It's a time to read, gaze out at a monotonous view & break bread with your fellow passengers, possibly over a slug of vodka. Everything feels a bit old and in need of an upgrade but therein lies the charm.