Stephanie Classmann: “I use all opportunities to attract tourists to Uzbekistan”

Stephanie Clasemann from Germany studied psychology and philosophy and is a family therapist and hypnotherapist.

She works at the Center for Family Psychology, is engaged in creative activities, and is the author of the book “Sacred Uzbekistan: Following in the Footsteps of the Great Sufis” and recently began writing “Finally Back in Bukhara”.

In 2023, an unforgettable event happened in Stephanie Classmann’s life. For her contribution to promoting Uzbekistan’s tourism potential, the Tourism Committee of the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan awarded her the “Tourism Devotee” badge.

We decided to tell our compatriots about the achievements of this creative woman from Germany and her special love for Uzbekistan. With the help of the Uzbekistan Embassy in Berlin, we arranged an interview with Stephanie Classmann.

– You are inspired by the culture and identity of Uzbekistan and its ancient monuments. Your love for this country is special. Many of your works are dedicated to Uzbekistan. What are you working on now?

– In 2021, I released a travel guide to Uzbekistan, and in 2023 – stories about this amazing country, - says Stephanie Classmann. – These days, I started writing a novel about Uzbekistan, this beautiful country on the Great Silk Road. This will be my first big job.

– Would you please tell us more about the plot of the new novel?

– Uzbekistan, of course, occupies a central place in this work. The plot of the work is still a secret. But I called it “Finally Back in Bukhara”. Maybe I’ll change the name later. Time will tell. In any case, I am sure this creative work will be exciting and reveal to readers all the beauty and charm of your country.

– When are you planning to visit Uzbekistan again?

– On March 14-28, I plan to organize a trip to Uzbekistan for a group of Germans. This trip was postponed for a long time due to the pandemic. I am looking forward to visiting the ancient cities of Uzbekistan again.

– Is there still an opportunity for those who want to participate in this trip to register?

– Of course, there is still time. Anyone who wants to join us can find all the information on the page www.klosterreisen.de. 

– In 2023, the Republic of Uzbekistan awarded you a badge. How did you feel about this?

– I can confidently say that last year was very successful for me. I was honored with such an award at a ceremony held at the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Berlin. Among many other benefits, this award allows me to visit the country whenever I want and use public transport for free. I am pleased about this and will do my best to attract as many tourists to this country as possible. I think the award is gratitude for my work on studying Sufi shrines in the country, that is, for my book “Sacred Uzbekistan: Following in the Footsteps of the Great Sufis”. This book, published in 2021 and consisting of 402 pages, is decorated with exciting photographs and illustrations and contains many interesting and valuable information. I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Germany, which provided direct assistance in the publication of this book.

I sincerely wish Uzbekistan to prosper. I am sure my upcoming trip will also be full of new impressions.

Interviewed by Nasiba Ziyodullayeva, UzA