A travel content creator has shared his experience of visiting what he calls the 'cheapest country in the world', where a beer costs under £1 and a meal just £2.60. Lourens, known as @l.ourens on Instagram, is a Dutch travel creator with over 15,000 followers. He regularly posts about discovering unknown destinations and aims to visit every country in Europe, having already visited 47. In a recent reel, he showcased Uzbekistan, describing it as the most budget-friendly destination he has encountered after visiting more than 60 countries.
Unbeatable Affordability
In the video, Lourens explains: 'I went to the cheapest country in the world, where you can have a beer on a terrace for about €1 (87p) and stay in a local apartment for about €15 (£13) per night.' He adds that the capital city feels like a mini Dubai, with modern glass towers and a spotless metro, yet also boasts ancient buildings, rich culture, and local cuisine. At one restaurant, a local dish cost around €3 (£2.60) per person.
Beyond the Capital
For those not drawn to Dubai-style architecture, Lourens recommends a luxury high-speed train for around €15 to Samarkand, a cultural hub where he saw 'one of the most beautiful buildings of the ancient Silk Road.' He also suggests a guided day trip across the border to Tajikistan to see the Seven Lakes, which feature clear water and pristine mountain views.
Social Media Buzz
The post garnered over 70,000 likes. One user exclaimed: 'One of my favourite countries ever!' Another agreed: 'I just left Uzbekistan and it's amazing.' A third commented: 'Looks so interesting, I love the idea of going somewhere that's not over-touristy.'
Is Uzbekistan the Cheapest?
While Uzbekistan ranks among the most affordable destinations, it is not technically the absolute cheapest. Countries such as Pakistan, Egypt, Libya, and India generally have a lower cost of living. Within Central Asia, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan are often considered even more budget-friendly.
Safety Considerations
Uzbekistan is widely regarded as safe for tourists, with many rating it among the safest countries they have visited. The UK government advises general safety but warns of terrorism risks and advises avoiding protests. Popular destinations like Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara have strong security and a visible police presence. Areas near the Afghan border are strongly discouraged, and parts of the Fergana Valley near Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan remain mined or have a history of unrest. Uzbekistan recently ranked #1 in the Solo Female Travel Safety Index, with low reports of harassment. Street crime is uncommon, and walking alone after dark in major cities is considered safe.
