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Kyrgyzstan is a Central Asian country of unbelievable natural beauty and proud roaming traditions. Non-coastal and mountainous, it borders Kazakhstan to the north, Uzbekistan to the west, Tajikistan to the southwest and China to the southeast. Annexed by Russia in 1876; it achieved independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Talk: The languages of Kyrgyzstan are Russian and Kyrgyz, a Turkic language related to Uzbek, Kazakh, and, of course, Turkish. Kyrgyz is more frequent in rural areas whereas Russian is the city language of choice. Cities: * Bishkek * Jalal-Abad * Karakol * Naryn * Osh.

Weather: Dry continental to polar in high Tien Shan; subtropical in southwest (Fergana Valley); temperate in northern foothill zone. Landscape: Entirely mountainous, dominated by the Tien Shan range; many tall peaks, glaciers, and high-altitude lakes. Highest point: Jengish Chokusu (Pik Pobedy) 7,439 m. Sleep: Many private citizens rent out their flats to foreigners and a fairly decent flat can be had for $30 a week. Noting that the average salary is between $20 and $30 you may think you are paying excessively. Look for cable, toilet and bath, and clean quarters. This is the least you should expect for $30 a week. More adventurous visitors may wish to stay in a "yurta." These are boiled wool tents used by nomads.

Food: Kyrgyz food is the result of a long history of rural nomadism and is awesomely meat-based. Those with vegetarian fixations may wish to revise their habits or purchase their own fresh fruits, vegetables, and fresh bread from one of the many small stands or food markets that are omnipresent in every city. Drink: Tea and vodka are the major drinks of many Kyrgyz inhabitants. There are various different varieties of teas and vodkas. In addition, you can find many western soda brands including Coca-Cola and Pepsi, all valid.