Tag Archives: Central Asia
manas

I’m Chasing the Magic… What Keeps You Traveling?

By on May 15, 2012 in China, Kyrgyzstan, Soviet Travel

Central Asia, the lands of the ancient Silk Road, and the route of much trade, war, and magic, has been my obsession for a long time — only I haven’t explored that much of it beyond my beloved Kyrgyzstan… until now.

May 15, 2012 · Read full story · Comments { 9 }
pat bazaar skyscanner bag

The Time I Sent Pat to Get a Loaf of Bread in Bishkek

By on May 7, 2012 in Kyrgyzstan

So, I sent Pat to get a loaf of bread for breakfast — only I didn’t send him to the big grocery store down the street where everything is easy to grab. I sent him to the little convenience stand in our complex where you basically have to talk to the worker, or point as I expected would be the case.

May 7, 2012 · Read full story · Comments { 11 }
dorm room

Thrifty Thursday: One Month of Intensive Russian for Less Than $850

By on January 20, 2012 in Kyrgyzstan, Language Learning, Thrifty Travel

In this post, I break down the numbers involved in taking intensive Russian language lessons in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. Even with food, travel and accommodation, the price is no contest. Seriously, have a read and be inspired!

January 20, 2012 · Read full story · Comments { 7 }
wintery slush

11 Things (Re)Learned About Bishkek Travel

By on January 12, 2012 in Kyrgyzstan, Soviet Travel

Bishkek as a travel destination. In some ways it’s great; in others it is severely lacking. Overall, I love traveling to Bishkek, but there are some factors you should know about — some of which I cover in this post.

January 12, 2012 · Read full story · Comments { 5 }
man and eagle

Eagle Hunters in Kyrgyzstan: A Photo Essay

By on January 11, 2012 in Kyrgyzstan, Soviet Travel

One of the best experiences I had on my past visit to Kyrgyzstan was being able to get up close and personal with Kyrgyz eagle hunters. Kyrgyz men have been hunting with eagles for 6,000 years.

January 11, 2012 · Read full story · Comments { 7 }

Somewhere in Kyrgyzstan

By on December 26, 2011 in Kyrgyzstan, Soviet Travel

Kyrgyzstan is a country with a unique landscape. It is composed of 94% mountains while the rest of it can sometimes resemble the steppe or even Mars. Here are some photos I took while on a ride out towards Lake Issyk-Kul.

December 26, 2011 · Read full story · Comments { 11 }
foyer

12 Things Learned About Russian Language Learning

By on December 13, 2011 in Kyrgyzstan, Language Learning, Soviet Travel

In this post I take a personal journey down the road of things learned about Russian language learning. What words can I just not say right? How much more can I complain about the absurdity that is Russian? You’ll have to read to find out!

December 13, 2011 · Read full story · Comments { 12 }
russian warning sign

Week 4 Wrap-Up: Holy F#*k, I Know Russian

By on November 26, 2011 in Kyrgyzstan, Language Learning, Soviet Travel

And we’re done, people! I told my teachers that I surprised myself during my final week of lessons. Big improvement from the week before, thanks to finally getting good sleep and no longer being ill.

November 26, 2011 · Read full story · Comments { 7 }
my russian learning classroom

Questioning One’s Purpose: Thoughts During Week 3 of Russian

By on November 23, 2011 in Kyrgyzstan, Language Learning, Soviet Travel

Learning or relearning a language is like a roller coaster. I’m up and then I’m down… and it sometimes isn’t easy to see the light! This past week has been especially hard, but I’m back and ready to smash my final week here in Bishkek.

November 23, 2011 · Read full story · Comments { 4 }
packing for k-stan

I’m Unprepared… and I Like It

By on October 24, 2011 in Kyrgyzstan, Pre-Travel, Soviet Travel, Turkey

I bought the Istanbul section of the Turkey Lonely Planet, and have yet to look at it. I booked a hostel for the first night in the city, and I have no idea how to get there. I know when my flights will be landing; I know when they should be departing.

October 24, 2011 · Read full story · Comments { 8 }