In mid-September, the ancient Silk Road city of Samarkand, Uzbekistan was thrust into the spotlight as leaders of member nations of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) convened for their annual summit. For visitors, one particular venue should have left an impression — the Silk Road Samarkand, a sprawling brand new complex that served as the conference venue and luxury lodging for the city’s special guests.
The modern facility houses a congress hall, multiple hotels, parks, sports grounds, restaurants and shops. Developers are hoping the Silk Road Samarkand can become Central Asia’s next major tourist attraction.