Tylla Halley is Peace Corps Volunteer from Shreveport, Louisiana (USA). She came to Kyrgyzstan in June 2016. Tylla teaches English through formal lessons, clubs, camps and extracurricular activities in Kara-Buura village of Talas region.

-What surprises you in Kyrgyzstan?

— It really surprises me how in summer many families pack their things and move to jailoo to live in yurts and watch over their animals. I love how Kyrgyz people honor their culture and traditions. It is also really funny to watch people in my village text on their phones while riding their horses or donkeys.

— What reminds you of your hometown in Bishkek?

— Bishkek Park and Asia Mall remind me of the shopping malls in my hometown. I think it is really cool how in both Kyrgyzstan and America malls are places where teenagers go to walk around and hang out with their friends. Sierra Coffee also reminds me of coffee shops in my hometown. It is a nice place, with a great environment, to spend the day reading a book.

— What will you miss having returned home from Kyrgyzstan?

-When I return to America I will miss my Kyrgyz families. I have lived with three different families so far. I will also miss Kyrgyzstan’s nature. I have hiked many times in every region except Batken and Naryn.

-What is your favorite place in Bishkek?

-I love the whole city. When I come into Bishkek from Talas I love to walk everywhere instead of taking marshrutkas, especially in the summer. There are always new stores and cafes open in Bishkek so there is always something to do.

-What do you like in the national cuisine and what are you afraid to try?

-My favorite Kyrgyz foods are manty and oromo. My favorite time to eat them is in autumn during pumpkin season. They become both sweet and savory when you add pumpkin to the recipe. I also love to drink bozo. My neighbor gives homemade bozo to my family twice a week!

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

— I find going to the banya really fascinating. I thought going to the banya was only about cleaning your body, but I quickly realized that it is more about socializing and relaxing.