If you’re the least bit familiar with the country of Kyrgyzstan, then you most likely know a little bit about the infamous Lake Issyk-Kul. I started hearing stories back in May of the lake’s power, especially in the months of July and August when the Bishkek heat can be almost unbearable (as I am currently finding out now!).
What they don’t tell you about is the gruesome history this amazingly beautiful land contains. Stories of Cyanide poisoning and nuclear testing (?) have been brought up on many occasions. Eep!
A few weeks ago, my good friends here and I decided we should head out there before they leave me lonely in Bishkek. We stayed the night in a yurt, feasted ourselves on plov until we thought we would explode, and baked at the beach. Here is a little video of our time spent there, taking a dip in the icy waters of a former cyanide infected, nuclear tested lake. Enjoy!
An Adventure to Lake Issyk-Cold from Brooke Schoenman on Vimeo.
American girl left to travel the world in 2007. Studied languages, slept in a yurt, taught English, met Aussie guy and fell in love. Moved to Australia. Calls Sydney home. Wants a puppy. Still loves to travel. Read more 
hey just so you know, this video is only showing for like 5 secs. and then it shuts off. Thought you’d want to know so you can repost it
- Beth
Finally got it reloaded. Give it another shot
I love your blog… I’m about to go on an abroad program for my school and am always reading for inspiration- Ive been using http://www.travelskoot.com. it- Its a map/journal site where you can plot and leave comments on restaurants, museums, stores etc. that you visit. I thought you’d find it helpful..and you can link directly to specific maps.– Just a tip o you can remeber everything you’ve done (and show others the places that are good..or too bad to try ha)
keep having fun!
Looks like you guys had a great time Brooke!