Bishkek

Where to stay

Most budget travelers base themselves along or just south of Chuy Avenue, around Kievskaya and Toktogul streets. That puts you within walking distance of Osh Bazaar, the main marshrutka stops, and the bulk of the cheap cafes worth knowing.

Getting around

• Marshrutkas cost next to nothing and cover the whole city. Ask your hostel which route number hits your destination before heading out. InDriver (the local rideshare app) is cheap too, but set the fare before you get in if you hail one off the street.
• Osh Bazaar, about 2 km west of Ala-Too Square, has the cheapest produce, samsa, and dried fruit in the city. Go before noon when the selection is best and vendors are still set up.
• If you're heading to Ala Archa gorge or catching a shared transfer to Issyk-Kul, ask your hostel first. Many hostels organize shared seats that cost a fraction of what you'd pay arranging a taxi yourself.

When to go

November through April hostels have space and rates drop noticeably. July and August fill up fast as trekkers pass through on their way to Song-Kol, Ala Archa, and the Tian Shan.