Uzbekistan was my first big adventure, and my very first trip to Asia. Little did I know at the time that this one trip would spark my love for unusual, off-the-beaten-path destinations and influence so many of my travel choices in the years that followed. The funny thing is, Uzbekistan wasn’t even on my radar. At the time, I probably couldn’t have pointed it out on a map, let alone imagined myself planning an entire trip there independently, without joining a tourist group. I was definitely hesitant, and, if I am honest, a little scared at first. But I am so glad I didn’t let fear win. Saying yes to Uzbekistan opened the door to a completely new way of travelling, and it’s safe to say I have been chasing that feeling ever since.