Memorable times with joyful Kyrgyz kids

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.