Bishkek/Kyrgyzstan/Central Asia
There doesn’t seem to be a ton of info out there on the Kyrgyz Republic. While I’m learning more about this lovely little land, check out these sites for more info.
Caravanistan – This is the defining resource on practical information for travel in Central Asia. Anytime I need info on visas, border crossings, or cool travely stuff to do in the region this is where I look to.
Feel Nomad – Locally-owned tour agency in Bishkek with many years of combined experience working in the tourism sector, particularly good for offbeat and active/adventure travel.
Ianbek.kg – An English expat who lives in Bishkek and runs a tour company/hotel. Ian’s ‘Postcards from Bishkek’ are some of the most interesting and thorough commentary I’ve read on the country.
Iron Horse Nomads – Car rental service and tour agency based in Bishkek, certainly the most reliable place to rent a self-drive car anywhere in Central Asia.
Spektator – Though the publishing schedule is erratic at the moment, the Spektator has a lot to say about Bishkek and Kyrgyzstan and is the most comprehensive guide for places to eat, drink, and be merry that I’ve found.
Useful Travel Links
Agoda – Great for bookings at nicer places at the best possible prices.
Amazon – Still gearing up for a trip? Need to replace something next time you’re home? This is my go-to site.
Couchsurfing – Not quite the traveler’s heaven and haven that it once was, but still a nice and useful thing.
DHGate – Need a LOT of gear? Buy it direct from China wholesale, share it with your friends, and everybody saves.
Looking for Hostels and Flights and maybe even Tours? Check out the Support MonkBoughtLunch page for a list of booking options that will also help keep this site running!
Travel Blogs
BackpackingMan – To put Jonny in perspective: I met him in Central Asia, Couchsurfed with him at his base in Amsterdam, heard tales of his family from England’s Silly Islands (note: I spelled that incorrectly), and listened as he planned an epic trip BACK to West Africa. This dude is doing cool things, and you should be following him.
Don’t Stop Living – Jonny has been on the road for over a decade, and amassed quite the stock of stories. Go check him out to see what he has been up to.
Dromomaniac – A good read and take on the world, as well as tons of info about saving money on travel and getting the most out of airlines.
FoxNomad – High tech travel and journeys through destinations far from the usual.
Go Power Kick – Mike writes about travel, food, and… power kick? Ok, you’ve lost me there. The travel and food, though? Totally.
Jonny Duncan Photography – Beautiful photos from the dude behind BackpackingMan and all his travels across the wild world. Currently photographing models in Kiev… go check it out.
Just One Way Ticket – Sabrina is a German-born resident of Istanbul who seems to be a huge hit in the Philippines. Go check out her site and see why people all over the world love her and her travel tips.
Nomadic Samuel – A self-proclaimed man of many hats, permanently on the move and constantly writing it up with dripping sarcasm.
ThePale – Brilliant web-comic featuring great art and a unique presentation. Start at the beginning and read the whole story, and you’ll thank me.
Souvenir Finder – Shopping isn’t exactly my thing, but Kristin uses the search for that perfect memento to get a deep view into the places she visits.
Travel Junkette – Beautifully designed site from an American girl I traveled with for a bit in Mongolia. Definitely check this link out.
Travels of Adam – Bostonian travel blogger who saw the light and started his own world journey.
Where to Pitch – Freelance writers rejoice! Susan provides this helpful resource to help you figure out where to pitch those stores that just haven’t sold.
