After an enjoyable time in Kyrgyzstan’s Issyk-Kul Lake region—highlighted by a six-day trekking adventure in the stunning Tian Shan Mountains—we decided to continue our journey toward the secluded Son-Kul Lake in the center of the country. Our lake-hopping adventure began in the town of Cholpon-Ata, where we had arrived the previous day after a three-hour van ride from … [Read more...]
One Day in Cholpon Ata: Kyrgyzstan’s Beach Resort Town
Cholpon-Ata is a serene lakeside town on the northern shore of Issyk-Kul, one of the largest and deepest alpine lakes in the world, located in Kyrgyzstan. Known for its dramatic mountain backdrop and clear blue waters, this small resort town has a blend of natural beauty and cultural significance. One unique feature of Cholpon-Ata is its collection of ancient petroglyphs—rock … [Read more...]
Getting from Karakol to Cholpon Ata, Issyk-Kul Lake, Kyrgyzstan
After our six-day trekking adventure in the Tian Shan Mountains, we left Karakol and headed to Cholpon Ata. Having traveled directly to Karakol from Tashkent on an international bus, this was our first encounter with Kyrgyz public transportation. We had anticipated a similar experience to Uzbekistan, where we primarily relied on cheap and comfortable shared taxis. However, it … [Read more...]
Trekking & Camping at Ala-Kul Lake in Kyrgyzstan without a Guide
Ala-Kul Lake, nestled high in the Tien Shan mountains of Kyrgyzstan, is one of the region's most breathtaking natural wonders. Perched at an altitude of 3,560 meters (11,680 feet), the lake is renowned for its striking turquoise waters, which change hues with the shifting sunlight. Surrounded by rugged peaks and glaciers, Ala-Kul is accessible only via a challenging multi-day … [Read more...]
What to See in Karakol, Kyrgyzstan
Karakol, a small town in eastern Kyrgyzstan, is nestled between the towering Tien Shan mountains and the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul, one of the largest alpine lakes in the world. Originally founded as a Russian military outpost in the 19th century, Karakol has grown into a hub for travelers seeking both cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. Its unique blend of Kyrgyz, … [Read more...]
From Tashkent to Bishkek and Onward to Karakol by Bus
After some memorable adventures in Samarkand, Bukhara, and the Zaamin Mountains, our journey through Uzbekistan concluded in Tashkent. Now it was time to venture into neighboring Kyrgyzstan, with our sights set on the charming town of Karakol and the breathtaking Tian Shan Mountains in the country's eastern region. As a first step, we had to reach the Kyrgyz capital.Buses to … [Read more...]
One Day in Tashkent: Uzbekistan’s Monumental Capital City
Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, is a vibrant city blending Soviet-era architecture, Islamic heritage, and modern urban design. Known as a key stop along the ancient Silk Road, Tashkent has a rich history dating back over 2,000 years. Landmarks like the Khast Imam Complex, home to the world's oldest Quran, highlight its Islamic roots, while Soviet influences can be seen in … [Read more...]
Climbing to the Crater of Arenal Volcano
Arenal Volcano, standing at 1,670 meters (5,479 feet), is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic natural landmarks, located in the lush region of Alajuela Province. Once one of the world’s most active volcanoes, Arenal erupted regularly from 1968 until 2010, creating a dramatic landscape of hardened lava fields and fertile soil that supports an incredible array of biodiversity. The … [Read more...]
Our Adventure with Uzbekistan’s Outdated Hotel Registration System
On the last full day of our trip to Uzbekistan, we arrived at our booked hotel in Tashkent. It was still quite early, and we were quite excited to leave our stuff and head out to explore. However, our plans quickly unraveled, and the afternoon took an unexpected and unpleasant turn when, during check-in, the receptionist asked us for our hotel registration...I’m like: “Excuse … [Read more...]
From Zaamin to Tashkent, Uzbekistan
After two unforgettable visits to Samarkand and Bukhara, Uzbekistan’s Silk Road-era historical gems, we found ourselves in the remote Zaamin Mountains. Following a pleasant hike the previous day, it was now time to continue our journey through Central Asia to Tashkent.The taxi driver who had brought us from Samarkand two days earlier had given us his number, offering to drive … [Read more...]
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