How to enter living places without turning them into a stage
Cultural and practical etiquette for Kyrgyzstan: how to travel with respect, adapt to local settings and avoid turning hospitality into a performance.
Before the encounter
Good travel in Kyrgyzstan starts before the camera comes out. Customs, dress, hospitality, sacred places and family spaces can change by region and situation. Use this guidance to prepare, then let your guide and hosts help you read the moment on the ground.
These will help you be prepared and have a wonderful tour in multi-cultural and multi-religious country. Around 80 different ethnic groups are living in harmony. Here's a list of things to do and not do when traveling to Kyrgyzstan:To Do:Research and familiarize yourself with Kyrgyzstan's culture and customs before your trip.Bring warm clothing, as Kyrgyzstan can be quite cold also in summer higher than 1000 meters altitude.Learn a few basic phrases in Kyrgyz or Russian to help you communicate with locals.Try traditional Kyrgyz dishes such as beshbarmak.Respect local customs, including dressing correctly when visiting religious sites.Bring enough cash with you, as credit card usage is limited in Kyrgyzstan.Take a free SIM card at your arrival and register to stay connected while traveling around the country (a month with internet without limit cost around 10$)Respect and respect the environment, particularly when trekking or hiking, leave no trace and follow the principle of low impact tourismBefore taking photos of tourist sites (historical buildings, mosques etc.) and local people, make sure to seek the consent of the responsible person/people. Ask your guide if you are not sure.Not To Do:Do not take photographs of military or government buildings without permission.Do not expect Western-style amenities in all parts of the country.Do not offend locals by dressing immodestly or showing disrespect for their culture or customs.Do not offer to shake hands or give gifts with your left hand, as it is considered impure.Do not be tempted to buy counterfeit or illegal goods.Do not ignore local laws, regulations and rules in national park, wilderness or protected areasDo not feed or approach wild animals, respect wildlife and their natural habitatDo not litter or leave trash behind, bring a bag and pack out your trash