The sky is the first thing that stays with you. Dry air makes the light sharp, ridgelines turn from dusty gold at noon to deep violet at dusk, and market stalls glow with fruit, nuts and bright woven cloth. Hospitality runs deep here, and a pot of tea is usually how every conversation begins.
The climate is arid to semi-arid, with cold winters, hot summers and plenty of sunshine, so spring and autumn are the gentlest seasons to be outdoors. Dress for big swings between day and night. A Local Friend walks beside you, explains the customs and turns a long afternoon into the story you tell afterwards.
