Dorjee Kinlay - the only Bhutanese in Kyrgyzstan

Dorjee Kinlay is from the Kingdom of Bhutan. He has been living in Bishkek for five years already as the representative of the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations (FAO UN) in the Kyrgyz Republic.

— I have been pleasantly surprised by the beauty of the city of Bishkek which is very green and the entire country which has so much natural beauty. This is reinforced by the hospitality and warmth of the very kind people of Kyrgyzstan. And so I have felt very much at home living in Kyrgyzstan.

— What in Bishkek reminds you of your hometown?

— The mountains remind me of my country and also some of your customs are similar to what we have in Bhutan. We care for people and the extended families are very close and care for each other. The gathering of friends and relatives at time of grief and also during times of celebration is similar.

— What do you miss in Kyrgyzstan?

— As the only Bhutanese family in Kyrgyzstan we miss the opportunity to be with our compatriots especially at times of national celebration. But as we get to view Bhutanese television we use that as a substitute.

— What is your favorite place in Bishkek?

— I love the Ala Too square. It is a beautiful space. It is a lovely place to walk around at any time of the day or year.

-What in the national cuisine do you like? What dish are you afraid even to taste?

— I am a vegetarian. I like ashlamfu from Karakol. I have therefore avoided all the meat dishes, which means I am missing the best of the cuisine that Kyrgyzstan has to offer.

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

— People are usually very friendly and helpful. However with the growing population and the increase in the number of cars I find that the driving styles of some should be monitored closely for the safety of all, especially the children.

— What would you change in Bishkek?

— I would like to see much improvement in public transport and less individual cars.