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Travel + Leisure Launches Dedicated Central Asia Edition, Spotlighting Silk-Road Treasures

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Friday, November 14th 2025 at 9:07 GMT by Travel + Leisure

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Travel + Leisure Unveils a New Central Asia Edition – A Fresh Lens on an Ancient Silk‑Road Region

Travel + Leisure, the world‑renowned magazine that has guided wanderers from the pristine fjords of Norway to the bustling streets of Tokyo, has announced the launch of a brand‑new Central Asia edition. The move signals a bold expansion of the brand’s global footprint and a commitment to bringing the rich tapestry of Central Asia—Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Afghanistan—to a broader audience. Launched in March 2024, the new edition will be available in both print and digital formats, and will provide travelers with an authoritative guide to the region’s most evocative destinations, hidden corners, and emerging travel trends.

Why Central Asia?

Central Asia, a vast landlocked expanse that once pulsed with the rhythm of the Silk Road, has been a relatively under‑represented region in mainstream travel media. Travel + Leisure’s Editor‑in‑Chief, Maria Ortiz, explains: “The region’s allure lies in its juxtaposition of ancient heritage and rapid modernity. From the towering peaks of the Pamir Mountains to the architectural marvels of Samarkand, Central Asia offers a spectrum of experiences that challenge conventional travel narratives.” The magazine’s editorial team has worked closely with local journalists, scholars, and tourism officials to craft a series of stories that weave together history, culture, and contemporary travel.

The new edition will feature an array of content that caters to both seasoned travelers and those curious about the “hidden gems” of Central Asia. Among the highlights are:

• Silk Road Trailblazers – An immersive itinerary that follows the historic trade route, spotlighting the iconic cities of Bukhara, Khiva, and Tashkent.
• The Pamir Panorama – A deep dive into the “Roof of the World,” complete with travel guides to hiking, camel trekking, and the unique lifestyle of Pamiri communities.
• Caspian Coastlines – A feature on the lesser‑known beaches of the Caspian Sea, with a focus on sustainable tourism practices in the region’s coastal towns.
• Aral Sea Revival – A report on the environmental efforts to rejuvenate the Aral Sea, including the story of the “Sea of Fishes” project and its impact on local economies.

Rich Multimedia and Interactive Tools

Beyond its print pages, the Central Asia edition is also set to launch a dynamic online presence at travelandleisure.com/centralasia. The website will host high‑resolution photo galleries, 360‑degree videos, and interactive maps that allow users to virtually explore key sites before they book a trip. One standout feature is the “Central Asia Passport,” an online tool that aggregates recommended itineraries, must‑visit hotels, and curated cultural experiences tailored to travelers’ preferences.

Travel + Leisure has partnered with the Central Asian Tourism Council to ensure that the digital platform includes up‑to‑date visa information, regional travel advisories, and booking links for flights and accommodations. A dedicated “Plan Your Trip” section offers customizable itineraries, from a two‑week “Samarkand to the Steppe” tour to a one‑month “Siberian & Central Asian” experience.

Print Edition: A Premium Traveler’s Companion

The print edition—spanning 112 pages—will be released as a quarterly supplement in the magazine’s flagship issue lineup. Each issue will be priced at $29.95, with a special subscription offer of $129.95 for one year. Print buyers can expect high‑quality photography, detailed maps, and hand‑picked recommendations for restaurants, boutique hotels, and local artisans. A special “Travel Tips” sidebar will give practical advice on navigating regional customs, currency, and transportation.

Travel + Leisure’s distribution network will cover the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and select European markets, with an eye toward expanding into emerging markets in Asia and Africa. The magazine will also be available at major newsstands and online retailers such as Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

Collaboration with Local Voices

A distinguishing feature of the Central Asia edition is its focus on authentic, locally‑derived content. The editorial team has enlisted well‑known writers such as Sofia Makhmudova from Tashkent and Jasmin Tashpulat from Almaty, who bring first‑hand insight into their cities’ cultural landscapes. These writers contribute personal essays, culinary reviews, and travelogues that go beyond conventional guidebook descriptions.

In a press release, Travel + Leisure’s Director of Content, David Chen, highlighted the partnership with local tourism boards: “We are committed to fostering responsible tourism. By collaborating with regional authorities and local businesses, we aim to promote sustainable practices while showcasing the economic benefits of travel for Central Asian communities.”

What Readers Can Expect

With the Central Asia edition, Travel + Leisure hopes to accomplish three key objectives:

1. Educate – Provide readers with a nuanced understanding of Central Asia’s history, culture, and contemporary issues.
2. Inspire – Encourage adventure seekers to explore beyond the typical travel circuits.
3. Connect – Build a bridge between travelers and local communities, promoting cultural exchange and responsible tourism.

The inaugural issue will be released on April 1, 2024, and will include an exclusive feature on the upcoming “Tajikistan Marathon” as well as a behind‑the‑scenes look at the restoration of the historic “Bukhara Bazaar.” The magazine also plans to host a virtual launch event on its website, featuring a panel discussion with regional experts and a live Q&A with the editorial team.

Final Thoughts

Travel + Leisure’s Central Asia edition represents a significant step forward in diversifying the stories that dominate travel media. By offering a blend of in‑depth reportage, practical travel advice, and immersive multimedia, the new edition positions itself as an essential resource for anyone eager to experience the “hidden heart” of Central Asia. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler looking to deepen your exploration or a curious novice planning your first journey into this fascinating region, the Central Asia edition promises a fresh, insightful perspective that’s both academically rigorous and richly sensory.