There are no mandatory immunisations that travelers must take to Kyrgyzstan though you should have up-to date vaccinations for Typhoid Tetanus, Polio and Hepatitis A. It’s a good idea to talk to your local GP for advice on most effective vaccinations as well as preventative treatment options.
Food and beverages
Kyrgyzstan’s cuisine is mostly based on meat and rice. There are numerous other options for salads and vegetable choices. While traveling, you’ll have a chance to experience local dishes from the region which are usually a blend of the different cultures that have existed and moved around over the centuries.
The selection of alcohol is restricted to vodka or beer. Anyone looking to experiment with something else – such as Scotch or Gin – must purchase it at no cost and bring it along. Be aware mixers, including tonic water, are incredibly difficult to come across in Central Asia!
Cultural Sensitivity
You will often interact with locals, each with their own unique customs and traditions. You are asked to be respectful and considerate to the locals. You can always rely on your tour guide or tour leader to assist you.
The first thing to mention about visiting 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 in Afghanistan as well as Pakistan. In places such as Bishkek you’ll be amazed by the length of some women’s skirts! This is an Muslim region, so it’s essential to be careful in certain places. Both genders are allowed to wear T-shirts and shorts. But, when going to mosques, women should cover up their shoulders with trousers or skirts. Men should avoid wearing shorts.
80% of the population is Islamic with just over 15% of them following
Russian Orthodoxy
Language and Religion
Kyrgyzstan was one of the two former Soviet Republics located in Central Asia that retained Russian as their official language. Kyrgyzstan became an official bilingual country in the 1990’s, adding Kyrgyz as its official language. Due to Soviet policies, you’ll meet ethnic Uzbeks as well as Tajiks in certain parts of Kyrgyzstan.
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