We go on the honeymoon

On Monday, August 11^th, the day after the wedding, Kunduz and Khanchoro go back to work!  Meanwhile, Jim and I are treated to two nights at a new eco-resort about 45 minutes outside of Bishkek.  Kunduz’ twin sisters, Anara and Chinara, and brother-in-law Bakyt bring us out there and stay into the evening.

Newly opened, the place is Supara – and we highly recommend it for anyone going to Bishkek!  It is higher into the mountains, just inside the tree line.  The air is fresh and cool – a welcome relief from the August heat.  Supara’s owners are building it consistent with traditional Kyrgyz styling, while meeting international standards (e.g. Wi-Fi access, modern toilets and showers).  The lodgings primarily consist of yurtas.  The fantastic food is based on traditional Kyrgyz recipes.  They have horses for riding, trails to hike, and hammocks to read in. 

By happenstance, the owners have a professional photographer there taking pictures for their new website.  A huge bonfire is lit, and we all engage in two intercultural traditions.  First, there is a Russian saying that if you jump over a burning fire, the fire will burn away regrets from your life.  So, here is one person who is now “regret-free.” 

The second is an American tradition: camp songs!  Here I am leading people in “ring around the rosy.”  They enthusiastically go along, including the “all fall down” part.

They also have a professional model enacting a traditional wedding that could take place there.  Jim quickly hones in, and soon steals her away – the cad!

  

We had a wonderful time at Supara, but couldn’t help feel a tad guilty.  It would have been nicer if Kunduz and Khanchoro could have had those two days as their honeymoon instead.