Today, we loaded into a slightly less luxiorious minibus than we are used to (with less than half of our bags fitting in the boot). However, it was only a short drive to the border (I didn’t realise we were so close). The first job was to change some money into Uzbekisani som (as opposed…

Osh is the second largest city in Kyrgyzstan and the unofficial capital of Southern Kyrgyzstan. Its obviously more Muslim with more women covering their hair and has a high Uzbek population. What has been lovely to see, though, is that this is a busy city that makes a big difference from the rather empty feeling…

So, this morning, it was back in the minibus for the last long day of driving. I should probably take a moment to comment on the bus (as opposed to the roads), unfortunately I am travelling with a group of older (albiet lovely) people who all feel the cold. I am often sitting in the…

We woke up this morning to a clear blue sky, so it is time to get going. The plan for the next couple of days involves lots of driving through the valleys, over mountains, and across the steepe. Prepare to be overloaded with photos. Our first stop of the day was at a local cemetery…

So goodbye to Bishkek and we headed off in the direction of Issy Kul. On route, we stopped the world heritage site of Balasagan (near modern day Tokmok) which features the Burana tower which is all that remainst of a city including its mosque. For me, this is my first real stop on the Silk…

I am sure by this stage of enjoying my blog (with me yet to provide any writings about me on the actual Silk Road) and by being generally learned people, you are, of course, familiar with what I mean by The Silk Road. However, I thought a wee post may be helpful to give you…

After a somewhat wasted day-1 (according to my Intrepid itinerary), which I spent sleeping and little else. We are now onto the actual touristing = whoop! I am not completely sure as to what I expected from Bishkek (the capital of Kyrgyzstan), but it was not the tree lined boulevards, pretty gardens and fountains that…

PANIC STATIONS EVERYONE! Not really, I am just very excited to finally be on my way! So, I am starting this from Manchester airport and you know what, I apologise to Dave and all of Manchester airport for my extensive complaining about this airport as the new terminal 2 is delightful. My only criticism was…

I can’t really believe that this day has finally come. I am writing this post sitting on the sofa in my Mum & Keith’s house. Yesterday I got my hair cut/coloured (with hopes it will last) and this afternoon I have (very fun) plans to de-hair and get my nails done – that is how…