Alai International

Last year I participated at the local school in Kyrgyz village with Alai International.
I never knew anything about Kyrgyzstan, but I love nature and especially mountains. I did my research and I found out that Kyrgyz Republic is still a hidden spot from tourists. And I don't like going to places that are crowded with tourists.

My plan was to explore the nature, hike, camp and help local kids. It took me awhile to find an organization, who could host me and support me in the beginning. That's when I stumbled upon Alai on Social media.

The experience:

I was picked up from the airport and was welcomed by the most caring woman, Aidana. She showed me around Bishkek and the next day we went to the village to meet my host family. Oh, boy they love to eat! We had so many boorsoks and meat on our first dinner together. I loved my host family.

On Tuesday we started the program. I met the local organization and the kids we would be working with. Even though kids didnt speak english, it didnt stop us from having tons of fun, playing games, learning numbers and letters in english, and i loved outdoor activities too.
There were tons of opportunities for me to come up with my own games for kyrgyz kids.
And yes, on the weekends I was hiking with locals in the mountains and horseback riding!

I didn't realize how much I wanted to stay for longer, but I booked my tickets beforehand. My program was only 3 weeks.

I am thankful for Alai for all the moments I created and the relationships I made in Kyrgyzstan for rest of my life.

I have participated in Education and Women Empowerment programs with Alai International in the Kyrgyz Republic. It was a truly rewarding experience to be part of the local community and initiatives. I have discovered that making a difference on the other part of the world while traveling and meeting local cultures, is the most rewarding thing.

I chose a very unique destination, Kyrgyzstan. Amazing place and people to start your journey!! I lived in Chon Kemin, Shabdan Village. It is a small population place with warm-hearted people. For my Education Project, we worked at local Village School, teaching middle school kids English, which is very important for their later achievements and global access. It was eye-opening to observe how Kyrgyz traditions and culture have shaped the modern people there. I learned something new and at the same time felt so close and similar.
My host-family of four people welcomed me very warmly, sharing all meals, my absolute favorites were traditional Kyrgyz dinners every day. The parents and the kids have deep respect and love for each other. They were hard working farmers and grew all the products themselves on their garden, delicious and organic veggies, greens and fruits.
We still keep in touch through social media. Alai International gave me valuable support and always communicated to help. I'm definitely choosing them for my next Volunteer Trip!