Kyrgyzstan

I went to Kyrgyzstan in 2001 with Peace Corps. I think the country and the people are absolutely beautiful. Definately worth seeing…take an open mind and be prepared for the not so great water conditions. Knowing some Russian won’t hurt either. Pictures from your home are always a big hit. The people embrace you instantly and will want to talk to you, feed you and do shots of vodka with you. There is a whole etiquette around hosting, but don’t worry, no one will hold it against you if you aren’t sure how things work. This place changed my life for the better. I can’t wait until I can go back.

I was here for a mission trip in 2005, I loved it! We were in Bishkek, Cholpon-Ata and Karakol. The roads outside of Bishkek are really, REALLY bad. I suppose they could be worse, but it was my understanding that they have not been improved since the Soviet Union left, which was about 10 years ago. So there are some big potholes! But Cholpon-Ata was my favorite. We got to work with some orphans there, we took them to Lake Issyk-Kul to play! In Cholpon-Ata and Karakol we stayed with host homes so we got to eat some really good food. My favorite was pilaf, naan bread, and their melons. Oh those melons, mmmm…. Definately want to go back.

The locals are so sweet and loving…very friendly people.

I want to live in a yurt, live with hospitable people, learn about a new culture and maybe a new language, etc.
I go there next week!!! April 19th, 2007 =)

I saw a documentary entitled Bride Kidnapping in Kyrgyzstan and, barring the bride kidnapping, it looked like such a beautiful place to wander for a bit. Definitely camping or yurtz type accomodation, tho’.