Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – The old city of Khiva is protected by an intact and impressive fortified wall. Walking within the confines of the Itchan Kala, feels like strolling back in time. There is an ethereal feeling of fantasy with a deep sense of history and spirituality.

Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – I met a new furry friend inside the courtyard of the Kalan mosque; after a few head scratches the black shadow followed me throughout my visit. We temporarily named him Gato 2. As we walked back out through the Po-i-Kalyan I was sideswiped by a mini two legged creature in a giddy state.

Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – We walked back through the Bagcha-Darvaza gate of Khiva after a jaunt outside the Ichan Kala; coincidently discovering a lovely eighteenth century plastered portico with carved wooden beams adjacent to a mini subterranean mosque. As we wandered through in admiration, the curators extended us some of their lunch.

Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – We arrived into the old port city of Muynak (Mo‘ynoq) via a dusty part of the silk road. Evident on our travels were remnants of cotton cultivation; the result is that the Aral Sea has been reduced to mostly sand. Standing on the port-side seabed one can't help but accept. The present day desert was once a salt water oasis; its abundance, now reduce to a graveyard for once floating ships.

Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – Wandering around the heart of Samarkand, one can't miss the Registan. Standing in the centre of the public square one is surrounded by three madrassas, each with a portal and an inner courtyard. Each one impressive, with handpainted tile work in varied hues of blues and turquoise. One can't help but feel miniature amidst the patterned, textured walls.

Türkiye (November 2019) – My visit to Istanbul was a tease, a brief layover after a whirlwind of silk road activity. Built in 360 AD, formally an Orthodox cathedral, converted during the Ottoman empire into a mosque. The Aya Sofya museum is a spectacular place space where people of all faiths seems to connect with deep appreciation. There's an outstanding mix of classical Christian iconography with remnant of original mosaics, opulent candelabras, holy Islamic script and a minbar adoring the interior of the mesmerizing structure. Despite the ongoing renovation, tourists and selfies are abundant.

Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – Traipsing around in the Silk Road city of Khiva; the epic centre of cross culture knowledge, wisdom, religion and trade has been a long held dream. Walking the historical stone roads and taking in the breathtaking blues, turquoise and white painted tiles have been mentally stimulating. The site of numerous sufi tombs are tranquil and peaceful similar to moments visiting with familiar ancestors long since past, perhaps in part because this assignment honours my grandparents.