There are no obligatory immunisations for travelers to Kyrgyzstan although you should be up-to-date on Typhoid Tetanus Polio and Hepatitis A. We suggest you seek advice from your local GP or travel specialist as to the correct vaccinations and preventative treatment.
Food and drinks
The cuisine in Kyrgyzstan is usually centered on rice and meat but the vegetables and salads that are available are diverse. When you travel, you’ll have a chance to experience local specialities of the region that are often a part of the different cultures that have existed and moved around over the millennia.
For alcohol, the options are generally limited to vodka or beer. Anyone looking for something different, like Scotch or Gin for example – should purchase it duty-free and take it home. But, take note that mixers, such as tonic water, are incredibly difficult to locate in Central Asia!
Cultural Sensitivity
It is common to interact with localswho have their own particular customs and practices. We ask you to be respectful and considerate to locals. You can always rely on your guides or tour-leaders to assist you.
The first thing to say about traveling in Central Asia is that most areas, including the cities and towns have a much more relaxed view of Islam than their neighboring areas to the south of Afghanistan and Pakistan. You won’t believe the length of skirts that women are in areas like Bishkek! It is an Muslim region, so it’s imperative to be mindful in certain areas. Both genders are allowed to wear shorts and T-shirts. However, when visiting mosques, women must cover their shoulders with pants or skirts. Men should stay away from wearing shorts.
With around 15% of the population embracing Islam, over 80% of the people are Islamic.
Russian Orthodoxy
Language & Religion
Kyrgyzstan is one of the two former Soviet Republics located in Central Asia to retain Russian as an official language. Kyrgyzstan was declared an official bilingual state in the late 1990’s, and added Kyrgyz to its official language. Because of Soviet policies, you’ll find ethnic Uzbeks or Tajiks in some parts of Kyrgyzstan.
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