Khiva – pronounced with a ‘ch’ as in ‘charisma’ – is undeniably one of the most beautiful places in Uzbekistan. And Khiva has charisma. This stunning oasis in the endless deserts of Central Asia once served as an important ‘gas station’ along the historic Silk Road. Today, Khiva is one of the most beautiful historical cities in Uzbekistan and rightly occupies a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List.