Tashkent Department Store (former TsUM), Tashkent

Whilst out shopping in Tashkent, it will be a crime not to visit the Tashkent Department Store, colloquially known as TsUM, the Russian abbreviation for the Central Department Store (Tsentral'niy UniverMag [Universal'niy Magazin]) which lingers on since the Soviet times.

This three-storey mall in the heart of the capital (just across the street from the Alisher Navoi Opera Theatre) is well worth stopping by if only for the first-hand experience of the 100% Soviet flair that persists here despite decades since the fall of the USSR.

The selection of products on sale is insane, from stuffed animals to shampoo to sunglasses to office furniture and more. On the ground floor you will find ceramics, jewelry, perfumes, stationery, household goods and chemicals, DVDs, a small grocery shop and currency exchange. The second floor carries clothing and footwear, bedding, pillows, blankets, fabrics, accessories and gifts. On the third floor there is furniture, mattresses, carpets and paintings, to mention but a few.

The local souvenir department deserves a special note and is absolutely excellent, especially if you are planning to leave soon and need a lot of souvenirs, all at once. In such case, coming here is a must, for there is literally a little bit of everything, from authentic Uzbek china (teapots, lyagans and bowls) and a decent selection of silk to fridge magnets, ceramic miniatures and many other lovely things that will remind you of your trip to the hospitable capital of Uzbekistan.

As for the prices, the household items like an electric charger, for instance, cost here not much different from the street market (which is usually cheaper), but the souvenirs are considerably more expensive. But you will love their gift wrapping, rest assured, and, if you need corporate gifts for your top management, then this is the place!

Also, if you want to try local cuisine, you'll be pleasantly surprised that the national-style beshbarmak (a staple local dish) is cheaper at TsUM than anywhere else.