Travel + Leisure Launches Central Asia Edition to Spotlight the Region’s Rising Tourism Appeal

Travel + Leisure has expanded its global footprint with the launch of Travel + Leisure Central Asia, a new edition dedicated to showcasing one of the world’s most culturally rich yet underexplored regions. The brand will feature a print magazine as well as a digital website, YouTube channel, and active social media presence aimed at global travelers seeking authentic experiences.

A Region Opening Its Doors to the World

The platform’s editor-in-chief, Barno Ikramova, said the mission is to help travelers discover the “energy of our cities and the silence of our mountains,” pointing to the region’s growing enthusiasm for international tourism. Central Asia—comprising Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan—has seen increasing government efforts to enhance accessibility.

Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan have introduced easier visa policies and upgraded airport infrastructure, making cross-border travel smoother. Several countries now offer visa-free entry to travelers from multiple nations, positioning Central Asia as a strategic gateway to the historic Silk Road.

A Digital Gateway to Discovery

The newly launched Travel + Leisure Central Asia website will serve as a hub for destination guides, travel news, hotel recommendations, and first-person narratives. Readers can expect a mix of practical travel advice and inspirational content crafted with input from government tourism boards.

The digital platform will also feature updates from local authorities regarding new cultural sites, museum openings, transportation improvements, and tourism policies, helping travelers plan safe and seamless itineraries.

Feature Stories Across Five Countries

Early features on the platform highlight the region’s extraordinary diversity. One article explores the mountain lakes of Kazakhstan, promoted as some of the most scenic natural sites in Central Asia. Another story focuses on Khujand in Tajikistan, an ancient Silk Road city celebrated for its history and cultural vibrancy.

Cultural features include coverage of the newly opened Almaty Museum of Arts, which showcases works by global artists including Yayoi Kusama. According to Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Culture, the museum represents a major milestone in expanding the nation’s international arts scene.

Outdoor-focused stories take readers to dramatic landscapes such as Yangikala Canyon in Turkmenistan, known for its towering cliffs and surreal desert panoramas. The canyon is recognized by Turkmenistan’s State Committee for Tourism as one of the country’s most remarkable natural wonders.

Hotel and Resort Experiences Across Central Asia

Travel + Leisure Central Asia also provides curated hotel reviews recommended by national tourism boards. Featured properties include:

• Arman Dala Resort, Kazakhstan – a nature-inspired retreat surrounded by steppe landscapes

• Archabil Hotel, Turkmenistan – located near Ashgabat’s major cultural attractions

• Dostyk Hotel, Kazakhstan – a longstanding landmark known for its classic hospitality

• InterContinental Tashkent, Uzbekistan – a premium hotel in the heart of a fast-growing tourism capital

These reviews offer travelers trusted insights into comfort, safety, amenities, and cultural immersion.

Central Asia’s Growing Global Appeal

Ikramova shared that uniting five culturally distinct nations under one platform was both challenging and rewarding. The digital edition will continue adapting with updated travel insights, regional stories, and expert recommendations.

Travel + Leisure Central Asia joins globally recognized editions covering Southeast Asia, Italy, Hong Kong, and India. Its launch aligns with rising international interest in Silk Road destinations, where history, spirituality, and adventure blend seamlessly.

Government tourism authorities across the region are also promoting eco-tourism, cultural festivals, heritage conservation, and responsible travel initiatives, supporting a sustainable tourism future.

A New Companion for Global Explorers

Travel + Leisure Central Asia emerges as a comprehensive guide for travelers seeking meaningful and culturally immersive journeys. With detailed travel tips, engaging stories, hotel insights, and destination reviews, the new platform brings the landscapes, cities, and traditions of Central Asia closer to global audiences.

For travelers seeking beauty, heritage, wilderness, and authenticity, this new edition opens the door to one of the world’s most soulful and less-explored regions—where ancient routes, modern cities, mountains, and deserts create unforgettable experiences.