Brian McKenzie, an American expat, has spent the last 10 years in Kyrgyzstan, making a home in a country that was once only an academic curiosity. His journey, which began with a simple invitation from friends he met in Korea, has turned into a life deeply intertwined with the culture, people, and landscapes of Central Asia.
Brian McKenzie, city — Bishkek, Digital Nomad, @bizzkek
About myself
Before moving to Kyrgyzstan, I studied Russian studies at the University of Washington, focusing on the Soviet Union, Russia, and the former Soviet satellite states. It was there that I first learned about Kyrgyzstan. But it wasn’t until I worked in South Korea for Harley Davidson from 2013 to 2014 that my path to Kyrgyzstan truly began. During my time in South Korea, I met four Kyrgyz women who invited me to visit their country. After a year of friendship and persuasion, I decided to take the leap. I packed my bags and arrived in Kyrgyzstan, thinking I would stay for a short time. Ten years later, I’m still here.
About moving
I never expected to stay this long. Prior to moving to Kyrgyzstan, I had been changing countries every year. But when I arrived here, something clicked. The natural beauty, the friendly people, and the warm, welcoming atmosphere made it impossible to leave. Kyrgyzstan feels like an undiscovered gem — one that not many people know about, but I’m so glad I found.
One of the most striking things about living here is the hospitality. People in Kyrgyzstan are incredibly open and welcoming. I’ve had countless experiences where I met someone for the first time, and within hours, I was invited to their home for a meal. It’s a level of warmth and connection that I simply didn’t experience in the U.S., where interactions often feel more surface-level.
When I first arrived in Bishkek, I was struck by how different it felt from the bustling, impersonal cities I had lived in before. Bishkek has a population of around a million, but it has the feel of a small town. It’s friendly, relaxed, and full of character — a stark contrast to Seattle, which, despite its smaller population, feels much more hectic. Bishkek is what I like to call the "biggest small town" I’ve ever lived in. It’s a city that combines the convenience of urban living with the warmth and comfort of a close-knit community.
About activities
As a digital nomad, my work comes from overseas sources, but I perform it all from Kyrgyzstan. I was one of the first Americans to apply for a digital nomad visa in Kyrgyzstan, and the process has been an interesting journey.
I handle customer service for American companies, manage logistics for businesses in Singapore, and sell t-shirts online to customers in the U.S. and Canada. I also teach English online. Although there are challenges — particularly with registration issues — I’ve been able to build a sustainable career here.
The digital nomad visa is a perfect fit for my lifestyle. It allows me the flexibility to work from different locations while living in Kyrgyzstan. However, the process of obtaining the visa has been slow, with unclear definitions and changing requirements. The government introduced this visa in November of last year, and since then, I’ve been working with local authorities to streamline the process, hoping to make it easier for others to apply.
Without the digital nomad status, I would be limited to staying in Kyrgyzstan for only 60 days at a time. This would mean constantly leaving the country to renew my visa, which isn’t practical for someone who has spent years building a life and network here. Obtaining digital nomad status ensures that I can stay here long-term, which is important to me because I consider Kyrgyzstan my new home.
Applying for the digital nomad visa in Kyrgyzstan has been a more complicated process compared to places like Dubai. In Dubai, you pay a fee, wait a couple of weeks, and you’re good to go. In Kyrgyzstan, the requirements are still in flux, with frequent changes and a lack of clarity. To apply, you need to submit various documents, but the list has changed several times over the past year, and it may change again. For the most up-to-date information, I recommend checking directly with the Office of Immigration.
The process may seem complex now, but I’m hopeful that it will become smoother and more transparent in the coming years. My goal is to help simplify it for future applicants, making it easier for more people to experience Kyrgyzstan the way I have.
About Kyrgyzstan
Living in Kyrgyzstan as a digital nomad has been a rewarding experience, and I’m excited to see how the country embraces this growing trend. The combination of stunning landscapes, welcoming people, and the ability to work remotely makes Kyrgyzstan an ideal destination for digital nomads. If the government continues to refine the visa process, Kyrgyzstan could become a major hub for remote workers in the region.
For now, I’m grateful to call this beautiful country home and look forward to helping others experience the same sense of belonging that I’ve found here.
Kyrgyzstan surprised me in ways I never imagined. Over the past decade, I've come to appreciate the country’s remarkable hospitality — something that sets it apart from anywhere else I’ve lived or traveled. The people here are genuinely warm and open. It’s not uncommon for someone you’ve just met to invite you into their home for tea and dinner. Three hours later, you feel like lifelong friends.
This sense of connection is rare. As an American who speaks Russian, I’ve found it easy to build relationships, making this place feel like home.
One of the joys of living in Kyrgyzstan has been experiencing its rich traditions. The culture here is vastly different from what I was used to in America, offering endless opportunities to learn and adapt.
Take the cuisine, for instance. Foods like kurut, chalob, and bozo were entirely new to me, as was horse milk — a surprising but delightful addition to my diet. Horse meat, a delicacy here served at weddings and celebrations, often shocks my American friends, where eating it is illegal. But I’ve come to love it and appreciate the uniqueness it represents.
Kyrgyz weddings are another revelation. The scale and speed are astounding — engagements often last just a few months, compared to the year or more typical in the U.S. Pre-COVID, a 400-500 guest wedding was standard. Attending these celebrations, especially the kyz uzaty — pre-wedding party, is unforgettable. The energy, dancing, music, and food last well into the night, creating memories that linger long after.
Living in Bishkek, I’ve grown to love the city’s quirks and contrasts. While it’s modern in some ways, it has its unique challenges, like navigating streets with multiple names depending on the app you use. Google Maps, Yandex, and 2GIS might all show something different, turning a simple taxi ride into an adventure.
On the brighter side, Bishkek is incredibly walkable, with an abundance of parks. Unlike in the U.S., where driving dominates, here, long walks are a way of life. Meeting friends, grabbing coffee, and strolling through the city’s parks — especially during the magical autumn months — has become one of my favorite pastimes.
I live near the Polytechnic district, surrounded by six parks, which has been a joy to explore. The city’s new bike trails have also added to its charm, making it even more accessible and inviting.
About traveling
When it comes to Kyrgyzstan, Issyk-Kul is the crown jewel that every visitor should experience. Its beauty is breathtaking, especially during summer. My personal favorites are Bosteri and Cholpon-Ata, which never fail to impress. Although I’ve taken short trips to Jeti-Ögüz and Karakol, Cholpon-Ata remains my go-to destination.
One thing I love about Cholpon-Ata is its strong winds and the local folklore that accompanies them. Stories like the legendary fight between Ulan and Santosh or the tale of Cholpon’s tears creating Issyk-Kul feel like they belong in a Disney movie. It’s surprising how some Kyrgyz locals I’ve met haven’t heard these stories—they’re such a fascinating part of the culture.
I’ve also had the chance to visit Osh briefly and found it captivating. It’s a place I’d love to explore more deeply. Places like Batken Son-Kul are still on my list, with everyone telling me how stunning they are, especially in the summer and fall.
Tips and recommendations for foreigners
To anyone considering a visit to Kyrgyzstan, I say this: don’t wait. This country is one of the world’s best-kept secrets. Out of the 27 countries I’ve visited, Kyrgyzstan is my absolute favorite. The culture, food, and people are unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere.
Getting here is easy, thanks to a straightforward visa process. Once you’re here, immerse yourself in the local culture. Don’t miss events like the Nomad Games, where you can witness the raw energy and excitement of Kok Boru live. It’s an experience that no other country’s version of the sport can replicate.
And then there’s the food. Pictures on social media can’t do justice to dishes like beshbarmak. Trust me, go for the square noodles — they’re the best way to enjoy this Kyrgyz staple.
About plans
I’m committed to staying in Kyrgyzstan and building something meaningful — a business that helps tourists and expats discover the magic of this country. Sadly, Kyrgyzstan doesn’t make it onto most people’s travel radar. They dream of destinations like the Maldives or Dubai, but I believe Kyrgyzstan deserves a place on that list.
Through platforms like Facebook and Instagram, I’ve been sharing my life here, inspiring a few friends to visit. One visitor, a fellow American from my hometown, loved Kyrgyzstan so much that he decided to stay, marry a local, and settle down. Stories like his are what motivate me to keep spreading the word about this incredible place.
Kyrgyzstan has an undeniable charm that captures your heart. Once you experience it, you won’t want to leave. For me, this country has become home, and I plan to stay as long as I can, helping friends and visitors discover why Kyrgyzstan is so special. It truly is a place like no other.
