Surely the winner of Central Asia's 'least likely location for a budget hotel', the Kizil-Kum is southwest from the centre in a truly forlorn stretch of Nukus' suburbs. But once you're here it's a great deal, with clean and quiet rooms, hot water, shower curtains and even showerhead holders in the tiny bathrooms! There's also a small plunge pool and sauna.
The little cafe serves meals if ordered in advance. Add US$5 if you want breakfast.
To get here take minibus 53 from the bazaar. It loops down to the station and then back into town, passing the hotel. Look for the big yellow building on an otherwise very ramshackle street.