Bishkek: Capital of Tradition and Change
In brief: Like the Kyrgyz people, Bishkek has tried to honor the past in the face of change and disruption. After spending our time amid the rustic towns and high alpine terrain around Issyk-Kul, Bishkek…
The Myths and the Misses of Issyk-Kul
In brief: The Kyrgyz are a superstitious people in everyday life and spin tales about the countryside, notably at Issyk-Kul, their great lake. At 1600 meters in altitude (1 mile), Issyk-Kul - in the center…
A Wooden Spoonful: The Many Ingredients of Karakol
In brief: Our first stop in Kyrgyzstan gave us a taste of the diverse mix of ethnicities within the country. The 40 tribes of the Kyrgyz people were nomads who traced their origins back to…
Highs and Deeps of Tian Shan
In brief: Our spirits are elevated by those of the canyons and highlands, valleys and lakes, in the Tian Shan mountain range of Kazakhstan. Like the sirens of the Rhine, mountain landscapes entice us. And…
Outside-In Art at Almaty, Across the Ages
In brief: We spent much of our time in Almaty, Kazakhstan, appreciating millennia of art, mostly in spectacular outdoor locales…and one that should have been outdoors. The Millennials of Tambaly Tambaly Canyon is way out…
The Spring in our Steps: Delighting in Almaty
In brief: It was early spring when we reached Almaty, Kazakhstan's largest city. Emerging from winter, the city and its environs thoroughly charmed us - as did the lifestyle. Almaty, in the southern part of…
Multi-colored Wonders of Mangystau – Part 3 of 3
In brief: At Mangystau, our first two days were thrilling. The third added a delightful coda: a mosque carved through stone, a creamy canyon, and an explosive finish. Day 3 Western Mangystau Click these links…
Multi-colored Wonders of Mangystau – Part 2 of 3
In brief: “Go to Mangystau,” our Kazakh friend advised. Our first day there more than justified the trip. The second delivered expansive vistas, monumental mounds, and a lot of balls. Day 2 Northern Mangystau Click…
Multi-colored Wonders of Mangystau – Part 1 of 3
In brief: “Go to Mangystau,” our Kazakh friend advised. But going required a big commitment of time and money. Here’s why it was worth the trouble. “Go to Mangystau,” our Kazakh friend advised. “It’s the…
The Golden Man and Kazakh Pride
In brief: Whether celebrating ancient practices or inviting devotion to Allah, the Kazakhs proudly herald their independence and depth of culture. In the 4th century BC, the Scythian or Saka people occupied the area now…