Edward Miles: I do not want to eat sheep’s eyes anymore

Photo Edward and his wife Olga

Edward Miles is from Calgary, Canada. He has been living in Kyrgyzstan for 18 years already. He started his work in the country at Kumtor, where he got acquainted with a beautiful woman, his wife Olga. Edward is a successful businessman, a loving husband, a caring father and a cheerful grandfather. As he told, Bishkek reminds him of his homeland, but, according to the Canadian, the situation with the public transport in the capital of Kyrgyzstan is bad.

— What surprises you in Bishkek, Edward?

— A huge number of trees and parks. It’s wonderful when there are so many green spaces and areas for walks. And you have wonderful people. They are very friendly, respectful, and always try to help a foreigner who got into difficulties.

-What reminds you of your hometown in Bishkek?

— Bishkek reminds me of my hometown Calgary. It is located, like your city, almost in the mountains and it is also green, like a garden city.

— What is your favorite place in Bishkek?

— My favorite place in Bishkek is a golf course. It is very beautiful. I also like your, so to say, leisure centers. I like to visit the Opera and Ballet Theatre. I like rock bars. Sometimes, you can listen to great performers there.

— What do you like in the national cuisine? And what are you afraid to even try?

— I like plov and shashlyk. It is delicious. As for the second part of the question, I will tell a short story. Once we honored the veterans on the Victory Day and slaughtered the sheep, as the local aksakals taught me. So, at the table, I was given a sheep’s eye as a symbol of a special attitude. I’ve never tried this before. Not to offend anyone, I had to eat it. But now I know for sure — I do not want such experiments any more.

— What has fascinated and disappointed you in close acquaintance with the local population?

— There are charming people who appreciate strong family ties. Exactly this kind of cohesion protects and defends you. As for disappointment ... Perhaps, it is garbage. There are a lot of plastic bags, beverage containers that people can throw out right on the street. This discourages me.

— What would you change in Bishkek?

— I would change situation with public transport. I would introduce more bus routes, improve the parking situation in the urban area and toughen responsibility for non-compliance with traffic rules. In general, my life in Bishkek is not only an excellent experience, but also a great pleasure.