Kyrgyzstan: Bishkek and Tien Shan

I went to Kyrgyzstan in 2013 to investigate the use of remote sensing to map hazards. We ran a scenario planning game in Bishkek with disaster managers from Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.

Bishkek

With its tree-lined boulevards, Bishkek has a relaxed human feel. Soviet ‘brave new world’ architecture dominates. But away from the city centre, there are traditional single-storey timber houses. Like Van in Turkey, where I go next, Bishkek is a city on the ancient Silk Road, and although not a popular tourist destination, it’s worth a visit.

Ala Archa and Tien Shan

We went for a walk in the snow-covered Tien Shan and walked up the Ala Acha gorge. We wanted to see snow leopard, but all we saw were the inquisitive marmots, circling eagles and Marco Polo sheep. Having forgotten my trainers, I had only sandals to keep my feet warm.

Night-life

Our host takes us to a nightclub. It’s in a vast concert bunker. We toast each other unmercifully with vodka shots until encouraged onto the dance floor, where we dance with a group of attractive young girls they call the ‘jet-set’.

Published 4 Jul 2017, 44 pages, ISBN 9780995768079