Behavior rules in the countryside of Uzbekistan

Greeting
Men greet each other by shaking hands, hugging each other (close friends), or putting the right hand across the breast to the heart while bending the head slightly. Women kiss close female friends but usually put the right hand to the heart and nod slightly to greet bypassers.

Dressing rules
Villagers are used to dressing conservatively according to the Muslim tradition. Shorts and miniskirts, as well as sleeveless tops, are not appreciated.
Colored caps (called doppi) are worn by women. Men use black and white doppi or fur caps in winter.

Taking photographs of people
Please ask for permission if you take photos of people. If they refuse, respect the decision. If you take a photo, people will appreciate it if you offer to send them a copy. Make sure to follow through with your promise.

Bargaining
In the bazaar, bargaining is normal and expected. The seller will be glad to reduce the price. Do not bargain in “fixed price shops”. The price in the guesthouses is not negotiable.

Table rules
People sit on tapchans (tea-beds), Supas (tea platforms out of clay) or Ayvons (Roofed tea beds) on Kupacha mattresses. When entering, do not step on the tablecloth in the middle of the tapchan. Sit cross-legged (men) or fold your legs sideways (men and women). Do not stretch your feet in a manner that your soles are visible to people across the tea bed. Elderly people use cushions to lean on comfortably.

The tee will be poured by the host three times into a tee blow before serving it to the guests. Do not be surprised if the host fills your tea bowl only half. It is polite to be attentive and refill the cups of the guests regularly.

Bread
Bread is regarded as precious and holly. Never throw bread away. After breaking the bread lepioshka do not put the bread chunks on the table upside down.
Never buy or bring bread as a present in uneven numbers. Only at funerals, uneven numbers of bread are brought as a gift.

Shoes
Take off your shoes before entering a house or a mosque. The housewife might arrange your shoes ready to slip in when you come out.

Gifts
There are many children that you meet while walking in the villages. Please do not hand out sweets and pens on the streets as it encourages begging.