formerly known as Kyrgyzstan, achieved independence on 31 August 1991 after
127 years of Russian domination. Askar Akaev, who became president shortly
before the end of the old Soviet system, was re-elected as president
following independence and has stayed on ever since. He is rumored to be
thinking about another term, despite the current constitutional two-term
limit.
is a remarkably diverse country, at least to judge by the capital of
Bishkek. Here you will find ethnic Russians, Ukrainians, Chinese, Koreans,
Germans, and native Kyrgyz. The atmosphere is relaxed, and although I heard
a lot about police taking bribes (they only make something like $10 US per
month at the current exchange rate), I didn't sense a strong police
presence.
calls itself "The Switzerland of Asia." Although their tourism industry
needs a lot of assistance and probably a few tips, there's no contesting
the claim. I could see the towering snow-capped mountains right from my hotel
winedow, looking south.
