Having just finished her studies at New York University, Veena is making the most of a few months off before she starts the next phase of her working life. I’ve been following Veena on Instagram at @NYCtoNomad, and to say she’s making the most of the time is an understatement. She’s ticking off some serious bucket list trips including: Saudi Arabia, Patagonia, Nepal, and the topic of today’s conversation, Uzbekistan. I love Veena’s seize the day attitude – something I would definitely like to have more of. As well as her willingness to prioritize travel. We also discuss how she managed to visit several countries as part of her studies at NYU. One of the world’s great under explored destinations, Uzbekistan has been on my radar for a couple of years. I talk frequently about the benefits of visiting “off the beaten track” sort of destinations, and Uzbekistan is definitely one of those. We talk about what it’s like as a tourist destination, how Veena found it as a solo female traveller, and why using local tour guides are a great way to support the local economy and maximise your time in a destination. Connect with Veena https://www.instagram.com/nyctonomad/ The podcast is sponsored by Bookitlist If you’re looking for unique travel adventures both near and far, make bookitlist.co your first port of call. While you’re there, if you like the sound of anything you see, you can add it to your online book-it-list to take advantage of great discounts when you book. Have you got a story to share? Have you planned the trip of a lifetime and want to tell me about it? [email protected] www.instagram.com/lukerichaa Read my book, Koh Tao, for free Leo’s looking for the perfect place to propose to the love of his life. When they arrive in the Thai tropical paradise of Koh Tao, he thinks he’s found it. But before he gets an answer, she’s nowhere to be seen. www.lukerichardsonauthor.com