Avoid this Soviet Exclave!

If you look at a detailed map of Kyrgyzstan in Central Asia you will see some strange shapes appearing in the very south of the country. These are the Soviet formed exclaves belonging to both Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. They were formed in the 1950s to answer the question of what to do with small regions which were ethnically diverse from the Kyrgyz Republic the people had found themselves living in due to Stalin's map making.
These exclaves had always intrigued me and I wondered what life was like in them. However there is zero information online about visiting them. However I am always up for a wasted journey so I hired a car in northern Kyrgyzstan and drove 1000kms to one of these exclaves to see if foreigners were allowed to enter or not.
Join me on a wild adventure towards the mysterious mountain exclave of Shohimardon...

[@zarathustra007]

The hospitality of the locals you encounter never ceases to amaze me. Such lovely people.

[@Stevie762]

Gets stuck in the snow. Locals come help to push you out. Then they share shishkabob and vodka!! What hospitality!!

[@popomomo12]

@@Stevie762 invite you in for tea and food after a long night sleeping in the car. I really love that I get to see these moments in his videos

[@zarathustra007]

@@Stevie762 amazing! You would never see that in most parts of the US.

[@kdoeone]

@@zarathustra007 anywhere in North America and South probably.

[@THICCTHICCTHICC]

@@kdoeone Pretty standard behaviour to help people in South America...

[@JohnnyFD]

Great to see another adventure mate! Now people can stop asking me if you're still alive.

[@callumanderson2645]

Johnny we love your videos as well! Cheers from Canada

[@15411]

hey johnny the baby

[@15411]

im subcribe your channel

[@going_dark]

I thought he got sent to gulag.

[@amarc772]

is he alive though

[@nickpapagiorgio5056]

Bald you run into the most wonderful and down to earth people on your adventures! The man and his wife that invited you for tea brings perfect strangers in his home and puts out a huge spread of everything they can offer you it’s just amazing and the Kyrgyz people are yet another culture among the former Soviet republics that would give you the shirt off their backs and their last piece of food followed with an invitation to return someday again. So touching to watch these humble people offer such hospitality! Amazing video as always Mr. Bald and Alynchik

[@adam7565]

Absolutely that what i tough absolutely incredible. So much respect for the couple. Here in italy they whould call the police and take the car 😂

[@jarlalston9783]

Bald is like some kind of player in an open-world game, determined to unfog all of the map! Amazing video as always!

[@welfarestates8465]

Only this guy could get stuck in the snow, and immediately find friendly locals with food and vodka to share. I love this channel.

[@romangilmanov1376]

Exactly, usually no one goes to this place in winter, they were lucky to meet locals that happened to drink vodka and eat shashlyk there with a proper vehicle for this road. If he didn't stuck at that place he would stuck in another for sure and there would be no people around, lucky man. The road gets really bad further, you need a 4wd vehicle like the locals had.

[@helenf.7221]

Ikr? I’d be eaten by wolves

[@andyr0ck]

I love that the next cut-to is them grilling skewered meats and doing shots! Beautiful.

[@SomewhereInIndiana1816]

👍😂😂

[@loveyourneighbor9354]

So true!

[@shoebill3810]

I am from Kyrgyzstan and did not know about this sanatorium and Japanese prisoners of war in Kyrgyzstan, and that Gagarin was in Kyrgyzstan. Thanks for the story, and in general for such a video about my country.

[@aaron3733]

I learned so much as well thank you bald 👨‍🦲!!!

[@TRIPPLEJAY00]

Your Country are very friendly and that's great we need more love in the world. Have a fantastic day good friend.

[@steve-ohunter6870]

Bald, please visit Volgograd. You'll absolutely love all the mosaic's and war stuff.

[@loganstroganoff1284]

Have u ever pooped in an abandoned building??

[@erturtemirbaev5207]

Гагарин тут вроде лечился или отдыхал.

[@kyleb8268]

I wish these videos never ended. They show parts of the world that a majority of people will never ever see.

[@baldandbankrupt]

The follow up video where we enter the exclave can be seen here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aWW7qqB7eb5sjcU

[@SlavicAffairs]

How open and kind these people are it's beyond me... What a great vlog man, this video is a gem!

[@danhulson8703]

yes they are friendly but it certainly helps when you throw them money too

[@sosigking6358]

Haha did not expect to see you here. Love your content!

[@umniareport7385]

@@danhulson8703 In fact, Central Asia (and further south from it up to the south of India) and the Caucasus are ones of the few regions where people are really very hospitable without any benefit to themselves and can be seriously offended if you offer them money in exchange for a gift or a welcome.

[@MammaKush88]

It's so nice to just see humans being human. All small town county ppl r the same, all around the world.

[@MrBones-td6qn]

You will find such hospitality from, almost every proper Slavic peoples. It is a defining trait of our people let me tell you!

[@grimblegromblethegnome]

Seeing the hospitality of the locals is really heartwarming. They were all so welcoming and friendly!

[@edgepixel8467]

Sure, most people are hospitable. But it might just as well have turned out badly. They were lucky. Some of those were nasty places where people survive by the skin of their teeth.

[@jacobgorokhovsky4677]

Socialism comes with many fatal flaws but It creates generous and kind people, its great to see such hospitality in people.

[@emwjmannen2]

A lot of the people there are crazy and dangerous!

[@antonimysliborski3649]

@@jacobgorokhovsky4677 it's more about it being very remote place. I've experienced very similar hospitality in remote areas of Indonesia, India, Thailand or Iran - with the exception of India to some degree none of them could really be called socialist, and they aligned rather with the opposite side during the Cold War

[@Eidelmania]

@@jacobgorokhovsky4677 I dont think it has anything to do with them once being socialist, or communist, rather they don't get many visitors.

[@jeffreymason7049]

I lived in this part of the world for 5 years in my 20s and I still found this a fascinating watch. I do miss it, it was a simpler, more fulfilling life in many ways. The friendliness of random strangers you'd meet, having tea at all times of the day. When I would take the train across the Kazakh steppe, I'd meet and talk to many people and everyone would share the food they brought for the 30+ hour trip.

[@MrSuperflydude]

One of the things that I find really compelling about Bald's channel is that it feels as if he's addressing the viewer personally, rather than speaking to his group of subscribers. I think that's pretty cool

[@moccalou]

Yeah, I like that a lot too. Vloggers who make it sound like they're talking to only you. It's great.

[@MrSuperflydude]

@@1REEBOOK I bet ur fun at parties huh

[@yucol5661]

It varies by video but the speech in this one is very documentary style. Love it

[@jett762]

@@1REEBOOK bro if anyone this guys deserves it. going to places to educate people. get bent kid.

[@tFighterPilot]

Good thing he's speaking English and not a language that requires you to address a person according to his gender. It would really make it harder.

[@krazed9918]

Fucking hell mate, there is ZERO other channels like this. You don't post beautiful structured planned movies, you just go out into the old world and get screwed over and over while also turning it into an amazing adventure. Beautiful stuff, Bald!

[@jessienameles5063]

true i like it to... but maby he need chanche his name in bald ,cold and rolled!!!

[@rybolfc]

Absolutely unreal content. Not anyone else like him

[@melissalittle2443]

I agree and wish there were more like him. I want to see all parts of the world like this.

[@N3RDYLICIOUS]

I'd say Harald is on the same level, he just does it slightly differently, especialy the himalaya series from Harald. But yeah, they are goated.

[@vp5536]

Ted Kunchok is great as-well!

[@GhostWarrior97]

I love your sense of humor man! 15:40 had me cracking up how they just stood there and it just skips to you showing it anyway haha! Been watching a while now and what hooked me onto your channel is that im bald at 25, want to travel the world, and come from poverty. so basically I'm bald and bankrupt as well lol. I've learned SO MUCH from you over the hundreds of videos ive watched over time. Stay safe out there Ben and a warm hearted thank you to you.

[@vlajster]

bald at 25 lmfao,are you george costanza

[@Sereggggg]

I'm still dying at that bit

[@Neontrifle]

I just can't believe how self confident Mr Bald is. He has so much energy and able to walk anywhere (in the world) and not appear afraid and make friends of foreigners so easy and quickly. People around the world are generally beautiful and it seems to be the powerful that turn us against each other. A complete contrast to myself who has no friends and only 3 family members to talk to. I haven't even left the house in months, I would to be more outgoing, the only time I could act like Bald is after taking stimulants like I did when a young man.

[@jonboz7585]

I must agree with the earlier comments: this is your VERY BEST ADVENTURE yet. Lots of challenges, some of which you overcame, others from which you had to retreat. Thank you for taking us to places and peoples we would never meet, all interesting and wonderful experiences. Much love!!

[@KangAri99]

Agree!!! This is my favorite eposide👍👍👍

[@rogertycholiz2218]

JonBoz ~ This is THE VERY BEST ADVENTURE CHANNEL. Bald's first words when a baby - not mama nor papa but SOVIET!

[@thomasbillson7917]

I believe the trans Siberian episodes slightly topped this one

[@edgepixel8467]

41:03 This could have been the beginning of a pretty cool Blair Witch kind of situation.

[@edgepixel8467]

Mental note: If you’re traveling to some goddamn Whereisitstan, at least do it in summer.

[@alexandwhite]

can't believe you lived to tell the tale after that ending, shit man glad youre both okay 🙌🏻

[@SpitfireLionheart]

Became worried during parts of this video that Bald and Alina would feature on a future MrBallen video!

[@martinnemecek5603]

yeah holy shit, i read your comment before getting to that part and thought, yeah getting stuck in a snow sucks but there are people around it's not a big deal.... and then that outro hit

[@Sir......]

since we know they are ok, hopefully they paid for the extra insurance on it :p

[@stevevolk2881]

@@SpitfireLionheart exactly what I thought!

[@NotRealChandlerBing]

Im sure Alina was driver

[@beebs4283]

I watched your videos on the Donbass when they came out, and think of them constantly now. Your videos have given foreigners like me an insight into the lives of the people who will be affected by this war, and that is something you should always be proud of.

[@xXxkillapilzxXx]

For anyone searching for the song at 28:04. The name is Жаныш & Байыш "Бишкегимдин кыздары".

[@jeffsmith63]

Never underestimate how important your videos are in humanizing people, especially when the people in power want nothing more than for them to be seen as a faceless enemy.

[@NONARCS]

Yes! So many people of the world would get along forever if they could throw off governments and history and just meet.on a snowy road.

[@mham83]

Spot on mate!

[@lesfox2010]

Yeah, it goes to show that the world has wonderful people no matter where you are.

[@Raynosaurus]

I don't think I've ever commented nor do I expect anyone to see this in a sea of comments...but this video is a damned masterpiece. Getting a view of the people and places in such a remote and rarely mentioned part of the world is fantastic. Thank you, Ben.

[@flightlesscomrade8187]

I see your comment : )

[@swizzyneck3982]

I see your comment too man and you are speaking exactly what i was thinking

[@herbiegobananas1744]

I’ve read and agreed wholeheartedly with your comment dude!

[@ggss1176]

@@flightlesscomrade8187 I see his comment too :)

[@erikarneberg11]

141 Upvotes in nine hours- that’s probably a larger number than of people who’ve tried to visit this exclave! ; )

[@dhdphd]

I've lived in Bishkek, and Uch-Kurgon in Batken oblast. Two completely different experiences. I actually preferred Uch-Kurgan for the fact of access to awesome hiking for day or 2 week journeys. I love Kyrgyzstan.

[@clarkstone-bear7742]

I Love how for as much trouble you guys had. There was always amazingly good and nice people there to help. Great video guys!!

[@joefusco2027]

Literally LOL’d when Alina popped up. Poor girl always gets dragged through the worst of it, what a trooper. You guys really had us on the edge of our seats for a second, glad you’re both ok. Preparedness, Mr. Bald, preparedness!

[@Artiyoum]

Spoilers!

[@parsifal6094]

glad you wrote popped up and not pooped up :)

[@codrinn9999]

Poor girl. She should be kept in a golden palace, like the Princess she is :(

[@Sebbir]

@@codrinn9999 i highly doubt a girl like her would want to be kept in a golden palace

[@ilyal.9061]

for me these tricks ruin whole video. look like scenes prepared in a kindergarden

[@johku3733]

These videos make me feel like I'm there travelling with you! The best escape from reality, never stop making these.

[@mrdelaney4440]

Escape from reality? If your in the west its our future.

[@nicoloscaravaggi9271]

Enjoy them mate because are the last ones given what he said not long ago

[@amir3515]

@@mrdelaney4440 it's future for people who are unvaccinated 😂

[@timsmith1323]

@@nicoloscaravaggi9271 why what’s he say? I don’t follow the channel rigidly

[@mrdelaney4440]

@@amir3515 that's not something to aspire towards or be proud of, their body their choice, its called freedom you should try it, it's led to the greatest innovations in human civilisation.

[@Optejac]

For anyone wondering, Bald is with Johnny FD in Kiev right now. Johnny has been live-streaming pretty regularly with updates.

[@jonaspete]

they might got drafted to fight Russian.

[@genevacordoba5959]

What is Johnny's channel name please?

[@wesbez6226]

Love your channel. No scenic overhead shots. No fluffy introductions. Just travelling and info. Love it. The people there are so friendly.

[@deankelz29]

its soooo lovely seeing you randomly helping people out in need when you see and experience things...its amazing seeing the things you do and see that i probably never will and learning about other country's and cultures and kind of experiencing what you do in a way ...we need more people like you in the world keep up the good work mate love the videos i appreciate them take care stay safe 💙💛

[@JTM1809]

Those Kyrgyz guys at the end were absolutely legendary. Came to the rescue, threw a barbecue in the middle of snowy nowhere, and were funny on top of everything. I've "visited" Kyrgyzstan once for a couple of hours during a layover en route to Mongolia. Now I definitely have to go again, for a proper visit this time.

[@laboskie349]

Are you Mongolian or from nearby country?

[@JTM1809]

@@laboskie349 I’m not, but Mongolia was on my bucket list ever since I was a kid and saw a documentary about its nature. I absolutely had to go.

[@JTM1809]

@@mpforeverunlimited It was amazing. I’d highly recommend visiting nomads in some remote area. Incredibly hospitable and resilient people. The best horseback riders in the world. Sadly, I don’t speak the language. But we’ve had a great tour guide, who used to study in Australia, so she spoke very good English. We picked her brain on the history and culture of Mongolia every chance we got.

[@manduul9372]

Mr. Bald, you should come visit Mongolia. It's a perfect blend of Nomadic history and Soviet influence. Having been a Soviet satellite state for around 70 years, there are plenty of old Soviet relics to explore. Rows and rows of Khruschyovka's, Soviet bus stops and abandoned Soviet air bases you can simply walk into are scattered all over the place. It's totally worth a visit!

[@RoosterEmbargo]

i'd watch that

[@Skyforger84]

And I'm sure Johnny FD could translate and show him around

[@teekey1754]

The Soviets (Russia) might be back after they invade Ukraine.

[@JrOakvids]

Omg yes and he should bring Johnny FD with him to such a trip, it would be perfect

[@truediusbladius7149]

When I was squatting In the Netherlands (don't judge) I fell really sick, close to pneumonia in unheated building but there was an illegal immigrant from Mongolia who healed me with this beef soup with loads of onions and garlic covered by this durum pancake. I had to eat it with a towel over my head and breath in all the steam. One day later I was basically healed. Makes me really wonder about their culture and ways. Hope to see Mr Bald in Mongolia sometime :)

[@TwoBs]

Absolutely beautiful terrain in the countryside… could honestly sit and look at mountains like that all day. Love that folks came to help get you all out of the snow AND got a tasty snack. Thankfully you all were okay and the roads didn’t beat you all up too much with the accident. I don’t think I will ever get to visit that side of the world, so I’m living it vicariously through you, Bald. Thanks for the adventures and stay safe.

[@Beatmeup66]

Those people that took them in and gave them that spread of tea and food were such wonderfully generous people. "Bring the best tea". So sweet. Forget all those staged "feel good" videos on the internet, THESE kinds of people restore my faith in humanity.

[@ggss1176]

....wow even rolled out the tiered cake trays

[@wrakowic]

You are naive if you believe that none of these interactions are staged. I get your point and Bald is not like the "feel good" videos 99% of the time, but money are definitely exchanged so the people do certain things in a certain way. Just to be clear I am NOT questioning the genuine hospitality of the people in the east, that is well established, real and known.

[@Beatmeup66]

@@wrakowic Uh...ok...

[@WarPicturesEntertainment]

@@wrakowic Thats bullshit, if you would travel to these kind of countries, you know that these things are totaly normal there. Even between local people. No money is needed for this and sometimes even not accepted. And if Bald decides to help them out after the hospitality they gave him, why not?! You even admit that this hospitality is normal in your comment. What leads you to think that these people only do it for money? I was welcomed like this and even much more better dozens of times, while travelling in the former soviet union, middle east and asia. People are helpful from their heart and money is not so important as in the western world.

[@ShaxFoo]

@@wrakowic You need to visit Uzbekistan or any of these countries, for real.

[@CaptCovfefe515]

Absolutely incredible. The hospitality of the people of the former Soviet Union knows almost no bounds and continues to amaze me. EDIT: Through no fault of my own, the replies immediately turned into a trollfest of communist(s) vs non-communists. Read at your own risk.

[@JK-tn6sx]

Socialism creates hospitality, capitalism creates selfishness

[@JK-tn6sx]

@Liam Certainly not as nasty as capitalism/fascism which you seem to support🤮

[@littlebrit]

@@JK-tn6sx It is not socialism or capitalism, but corruption. Top 0.000001% owns everything, the rest owns nothing.

[@JK-tn6sx]

@@littlebrit you just described capitalism though. The whole point of socialism is the exact opposite of what you described

[@acidthunder1]

ANY authoratarian system whether left or right is equally bad.

[@angelamartin2811]

I’m so addicted to your videos without them I would never get to see such interesting history and everyone you meet has such kindness hospitality! The majority of people in the world want peace and safety for everyone! Who knows what the days ahead will bring but your videos are rare and very much appreciated! Please stay safe!

[@davebinsweden]

Absolutely love your videos! The way you interact with the locals is amazing. Keep at it

[@WhereDoWeTravelNow]

The legend is back with an adventure. Made my day! You are a huge inspiration for all of us, mate!

[@ridgegourd9415]

👍👍

[@slaughterhoosegaming7098]

was literally wondering if he was locked up for some reason or something alike and i hit refresh and BAM video

[@kermitthefrog9623]

@@slaughterhoosegaming7098 check out his second channel

[@yeeg7729]

Greetings from Linz😎

[@slaughterhoosegaming7098]

@@kermitthefrog9623 i did

[@jordan1982]

Taking the wrong turn down a snowy road in the mountains can be a fatal decision in the most developed country even when people know your general travel plans. This has to be a contender for riskiest adventure on this channel, even before considering the unfortunate incident at the end. Glad you guys are ok at the end!

[@guykraintz947]

He was just trying get Alinchik to warm him... All was just part of the plan!

[@skatechatham]

Another risky one was - I believe - In the Ukraine when he thought he was going to an abandoned military base but got nearby then heard shooting and had to hide in the trees and eventually run away. Oh and can't forget when he went up into the hills when the people told him not to... lol

[@Holland1994D]

Or when he left Alinchick alone in some very dangerous African country alone for a while to film some other stuff that was insane

[@kooveemies]

@@skatechatham lol could you paste those videos?

[@egemensentin]

@@skatechatham The run-in with the cartel boys on bikes in rural Bolivia is also up there. I genuinely feared for the life of Bald in that episode.

[@garygringo7786]

Awesome vlog! So pleased there are people out there doing stuff like this! Many thanks!

[@hacc220able]

Gives me a much better appreciation of people in this part of the world. They are lovely and so helpful and generous. Thanks for sharing.

[@billycarleton7646]

22:26 for some reason this sent shivers down my spine. The hospitality, this man seemingly has very little, but the spread he offers, incedible.

[@marcl4000]

I agree, this generosity is very touching. The man even say «bring the best tea!».

[@magaliconde2535]

true that. 😘✨✨✨✨

[@heldermonteiro2718]

A camera always help

[@ggss1176]

agree amazing hospitality

[@jibjub2121]

very humbling to watch. Amazing.

[@Zestieee]

A nice 44 minutes long Bald and Bankrupt video is what I didn't know I really needed today.

[@TimeTraveIer_0]

Shit, I didn't even notice it was 44 minutes long! I thought it was 15 or 20 minutes!

[@charlieboy-dh1ns]

I have seen you on Geoguessr Battle Royale

[@charlieboy-dh1ns]

I won

[@Zestieee]

@@charlieboy-dh1ns Yeah I used to play that a lot

[@AlekseyAleks_1]

@@TimeTraveIer_0 no wonder why you're the TimeTraveler

[@nemstanisic3605]

you are an awesome reporter and I love your vids. I bet you get far more satisfaction travelling through the former USSR countries than from any KZbin benefit that comes your way. I thought that I knew a little bit about the former Soviet union and their social studies but your pictures are gold. excellent work and please keep it up.

[@markknopflerisnot]

Your video presentations are the perfect and excellent example of the theory that the journey is just as important as the destination...wonderful stuff and so interesting for those of us who will never experience such [in]sights and adventures...kudos to you, enjoy your work so much, what an adventure

[@MikeJones-mk1vm]

It's nice to see a channel so popular that doesn't sell any products, doesn't push a political agenda, yet entertains and educates at the same time. You're the man, Ben. Keep showing the world from angles most will never see. You're inspiring millions and teaching us that no matter the language you speak, flag you fly, color of your skin, or country that you live in, we are all more alike than different. I never thought I'd have so much in common with someone literally on the other side of the planet

[@rajukaran4493]

Good job brother

[@kdoeone]

No adds. I am thankful.

[@chrisarnett1394]

Epic comment. Cheers!

[@ojl5055]

@@ArbitraryFilmings I mean that is just a joke about a stereotype

[@GrahamMilkdrop]

22:34 Such a colourful feast to pull out of nowhere and with no prior notice... and the impromptu cookout at the end looked delicious too... Amazing hospitality in such an inhospitable place! Glad you were both okay after your accident... those roads looked really treacherous... you were very fortunate.

[@nicknack6042]

Man I was thinking the same thing. That was a full on spread. If someone pulled up on me rn I would not be ready for that.

[@leannbrower3152]

OMG your videos are adventurous and a little scary. It all makes for very good viewing. Always something exciting happening. Thank you for the great video Mr Bald.

[@ahmedmahay]

I think Bald was his most real, authentic self in this adventure, more so than in previous videos.

[@MrRhyme-zi1rj]

As a Moldovian, i am glad that other post-soviet nations are still humble and hospitable. What a great part of the world!

[@NostyFripples]

@MLWATKK Tv(& those brainwashed by it) is the only reason to ever think otherwise

[@77LUCKYNUMBER77]

@@NostyFripples yeah It's crazy.. like deleting the media will be the greatest achievement of the generation z & millenials, I think. HAS to be

[@user-cp3wc5yj3g]

The more “civilised” you are the more inhospitable and arrogant you become.

[@adam.wild.]

@@user-cp3wc5yj3g There is some real truth to this.

[@murzik191]

@MLWATKK Actually I feel the opposite. Before I traveled a lot and worked with people from around the world, I thought, that people are similar and all cultures are equal. And the more I traveled, the more I value our European culture.

[@anthonyfoutch3152]

This is by far the best travel channel on KZbin. B&B might be the best channel period. They both amaze me speaking so many languages. She was speaking Spanish.

[@MojGradBrcko]

Man, How come you haven't been to Bosnia yet? It's probably the most awesome mixture of Balkans, it's a small Yugoslavia, people are hilarious (resiliant to suffering due humor). I'd be more than Happy to host you in Brčko & Sarajevo. I'm a Geographer and Slavophile, I have a friend from England who visited and managed to stay for 1,5 years and he will be coming back to do a documentary. I think you would really enjoy it and would make for some amazing content!

[@thenuclearmallard2703]

Hey, it'd mean a lot if you ever wanted to travel to Northern Russia and meet the Nenet tribe. Our people are wonderful and although very hard to reach, they have beautiful traditions and culture. It'd mean a lot if you'd want to ever connect with my tribe. We're reindeer herders of Russia and a steady nomadic group. I think there's only 40,000 of us left, but it'd be a really cool idea if you venture into Russia again! :)

[@baldandbankrupt]

If you can suggest a way to contact them and arrange something I’d love to. My insta is @realbaldandbankrupt

[@mserious23]

You had him at “hard to reach”)

[@thenuclearmallard2703]

@@baldandbankrupt thank you so much! I sent a message! Hope to hear back and make this journey occur!

[@MrChispa06]

@@thenuclearmallard2703 My comment will be here when this happens to remember this moment.

[@davidlemos1136]

Sounds really interesting!

[@AvgAtom]

I'm always blown away at the hospitality people provide. The couple at 22:00 had a whole table full of food set out before they even knew your names

[@thegunslinger1363]

From where I'm from. That certainly wouldn't happen.

[@TripleeVFX]

Almost every rural village in 🇰🇬 treats visitors like that

[@cinziac7921]

I feel the same, always amazed by how welcoming people are in those villages. They were super nice to Benjamin and Alina.

[@corymabie6032]

The History Bald absolutely thee Best! Looking forward to see you on TV soon! Much of my friends don’t get into your channel much, but you’ve got my attention for a very long time. I miss all the old babushkas!

[@joshgarcia7148]

Loved it! Loved the people and the scenery. Glad you guys were safe.

[@Quackity]

amazing video! I don’t usually watch long videos yet I saw this one until the very end, felt like a movie. I’m glad you’re okay after the crash

[@Dillwad472]

its that fella

[@charlien759]

Well you've certainly gone up in my estimations...

[@laurel9023]

Same haha

[@gaymoder]

bald en méxico cuando

[@matijajuric7997]

You dont have attention span of 44min? And you admit it? Why not work on it? Why be diagnosed with uselessness and get on with it?

[@garethp159]

I genuinely don't believe content can get better than this. It's so raw and insightful to parts of the world 99.9% of us will never go. Shows the goodness of people the world over too and something a traditional TV show would never be able to deliver. Thank you Bald and Alynchik ❤️

[@RichardAddison]

Lovely to see you back with Elena. Thank you both for what you do and sleeping out overnight in the car in all the snow.

[@BrandoDamo]

Ben you single handedly opened my mind to the Soviet Union’s history, geography, peoples, languages, struggles, and successes. You have humanized and illuminated this densely clouded part of history and the world, and you have done a great service to these far flung republics and their people. I was taught literally nothing about the USSR and it’s impact, and it was the second largest power to have ever existed on this earth! What a educational travesty! Thanks bald!

[@PsyMOONze]

Ofcourse western government will skip USSR in their educational system. I suppose that we all know why. Who do you consider as first largest power in history?

[@erinhilliard9347]

In USA we only spoke about Russia being our ally in WWII. If I wanted to know more, like I do as an adult, I have to learn for myself. Thank you Bald!

[@BrandoDamo]

@@PsyMOONze The USA is the most powerful “entity” when measured on most metrics to ever exist in human history. In terms of raw military, political, and technological power it was only the USA and the USSR who have been at such a stratospheric level. Superpower is the correct term for these two “empires” with probably only the old British empire being historically comparable.

[@aaron3733]

I never learned about any of this in school or college either he enlightened me a lot about the history of the area!

[@SidVirtuous]

@@erinhilliard9347 you never learned about the cold war?

[@Suzuki1776]

That was an incredible journey Ben! The generosity of people in these places never cease to amaze me. They have hardly anything yet they are willing to invite you into their home for tea or to a BBQ on the side of the road.

[@aneeya9387]

Exactly what I thought. It was such a heartwarming moment

[@yorkaturr]

I suppose that hospitality was created out of necessity. Since everyone is at risk of facing hardship, you'll be better off helping everyone you meet so that you will also receive help in return.

[@johnelius4361]

@@yorkaturr As far as I know, it's genuine. There's hospitality in the UK strictly related to doing business, making profits or exploiting someone. Totally different to being invited for tea in Kyrgyzstan.

[@aneeya9387]

@@yorkaturr Yea also shows humans are naturally cooperative

[@Jefestephens]

Yessss glad to see y’all together again, love seeing her in you videos

[@movingforwardish]

You are a breath of fresh air. Thank you for what you do. Awesome work.

[@jameskohlermusic]

I've been waiting for another Kyrgyz adventure. What a place! People who had next to nothing, gave you everything they had. Stranded in desolate nowhere, struggling to survive and yet they show more decency than you'll find in any major metropolis. Great stuff.

[@athelwulfgalland]

Can we trade some of our citizens for theirs? LOL Amazing people, some strange cultural traditions, but all genuine & real. I love these adventures. What they lack in wealth they more than make up for in courtesy & generosity.

[@Gfysimpletons]

@@athelwulfgalland if it’s up to potato head Joe, they’ll be here soon……….cheers comrade!

[@stuffylamb3420]

As a super introverted person I'm so damn jealous of his ability to talk to anyone at any time and make conversational magic happen.

[@speckgens]

..me too. but there are ways to combat this. just do however you feel and most importantly: be your self.

[@doposud]

it is much eazier at rural places where people aren't used to tourists , they are much more welcoming and happy just for your visit.

[@stuffylamb3420]

@@doposud Yes that is definitely true. I partly grew up in small town america and people would randomly talk to anyone for 30 minutes about whatever. I'm in the city now and that would never happen lol, people are on the move.

[@JoolsUK]

Its also his ability to speak the local language, people outside of the tourist hotspots enjoy someone talking their own language having an a small adventure.

[@gragor11]

Well I noticed he starts out by saying "What a beautiful country." and it all kind of flows from there. Having a pretty young woman with him helps break the ice as well. Plus he speaks one of the languages used.

[@kakaCVaiphei]

your skills on communicating and socializing is on another level...

[@giuseppecuscela3963]

Es ist einfach unfassbar, wie schön und interessant deine Dokus sind! Mach's gut mein Lieber! Sei bravissimo, continua cosi'!

[@CyanocittaMimidae]

As a complete space nerd I genuinely loved you showing us where Gagarin stayed and the rock dedicated to him. Fascinating stuff.

[@timvoliva2269]

Absolutely!

[@raiden72]

this segment starts at 4:46 ~

[@historian2394]

Avatar checks out

[@kipponi]

Me too astronomy hobbiest.

[@graullas8981]

Same, a nice touch!

[@sillywantos]

I could feel the deep empathy you had for the mother digging through the bins for food. Almost had me in tears.

[@testboga5991]

Taking dumps on abandoned buildings

[@futurelegance196]

Roma/Gypsy woman..

[@dt6822]

They are not poor in the way you understand. The Czech Republic once built a complex with the latest things very nice apartments for the Roma Senti gypsies, they're ethnically from Rajasthan in India, but most of them live strange lives on the street for whatever reason and in caravans and under bridges and in crime. That's not me exaggerating that's the truth fact. They will give birth to a bunch of children in order to have more of them begging. I was once driving somewhere in Europe I don't remember where and suddenly I'm getting off the highway ramp at a pretty high speed there's a little baby in the middle of the f****** road. So I break hard barely avoid running it over and the moment I stopped all of a sudden like Invaders in a Roman movie, I'm swarmed by maybe 50 of these Romani gypsies who demand I pay them otherwise they're not going to move to let me through. So me being an idiot I go to pay them, when right behind me some locals witness this, and this large Eastern European man starts swearing and yelling at them and they storm off dispersed like they had seen a vampire or something. It looked to me like the locals were more lenient with them then we would be in canada. If this happen in Canada that those parents would be in jail for child endangerment in hours

[@dt6822]

@@user-vw6bk4pb4l you don't clearly understand anything about gypsies. They train their children to live this way.

[@demianmakuc380]

@@dt6822 doesnt mean it's easy

[@grandmajane2593]

Another wonderful adventure. You are helping to educate those of us who didn't pay attention in geography class. Question: I'm curious about where you get fuel for your car. You seem to drive miles and miles without refueling.

[@ericsamuel5373]

Greetings from Malaysia 🇲🇾, Bald! Love your videos so much. When my 22 year old brother, Kenneth, was diagnosed with terminal testicular cancer back in 2021, your videos always brought a cheer and smile on his face. I’m sure heaven (where he’s at right now) must surely feel like the glory days back in the Soviet Union! Keep making your wonderful videos - you’ve touched so many lives through your adventures! Cheers mate.

[@mrichards55]

So sorry to hear about your brother 🙏 but very glad to hear he enjoyed Bald’s videos during his time

[@jedicouncil66]

My condolences, may God bless you and keep you until you are reunited.

[@beautyforashes2022]

22:44 Oh wow! Look at this beautiful spread that these folks put out for you, you being complete strangers to them. It warms my heart and amazes me the generosity you can find in people in other countries. Edit 41:46 Omg, the people never cease to amaze me! They pull you out of the snow, share delicious kabob and spirits with you. I'm just in awe over this, it's wonderful to see. Re-edit edit. Oh no! I'm sorry about your accident! But I'm so glad that you all are ok. That really was quite the adventure. 😊👍

[@kipponi]

When accident happened? After this video?

[@charleslindsay3201]

knowing the language is essential on a trip like this.

[@oskArtist]

@@kipponi after credits

[@splintmeow4723]

Right! Those people are absolute treasures. Hard life yet completely selfless in helping others. If there is a heaven, Tolgonay and her husband deserve a spot.

[@toolbaggers]

The novelty of good looking foreigners! Contrast how Bald was treated to the woman scavenging in the garbage for food.

[@agyos]

OMGosh! That was superb! Glad you’re both relatively safe. Thank you.

[@Ryan-kg2fv]

One of your best vids in a while. This has got to be one of my favourites.

[@edafade]

I don't know why, but I'm also so surprised by how hospitable and welcoming everyone in these areas are. They invite you in or ask you to get a tea/drink with them. My perception of the old soviet areas is totally different now. Thank you for doing this.

[@notyourmomyousnowflake3533]

the evil communism tales told by the west is done out of fear for this culture, a culture that brings capitalistic greed and selfishness to its knees.

[@rawdshotrod8917]

@@notyourmomyousnowflake3533 ah yes... to live like a pauper and be dirt poor that’s the life comrade

[@erturtemirbaev5207]

Thank you. You should visit Kyrgyzstan 🇰🇬

[@heldermonteiro2718]

A camera always help

[@swizzyneck3982]

@@heldermonteiro2718 a camera definitely not always helps man..

[@fabianweber6937]

That one guy in camouflage who invited you to his home is a legend 👍🏻

[@nunoalvarespereira87]

And the lads in the middle of those snowy mountains!

[@ralfgroh5967]

I never get tired of your adventures. Very entertaining-- thanks!!

[@WackyChicken727]

I hope your okay! Thoughts and prayers for everyone! Love and support from the U.K. 🇬🇧

[@fun2916]

Been to Kyrgyzstan and lived in Uzbekistan for over a year. They were some of the most friendly and hospitable people I’ve ever met. Many of them spoke multiple languages due to the various borders they shared and governments they were under throughout history

[@MasterMalrubius]

What were you doing in Uzbekistan? Work or touring?

[@thecandlemaker1329]

You mean the Russian government and... the Russian government?

[@danquaylesitsspeltpotatoe8307]

00:52 LIAR you are clearly Ukranian!

[@annagrace8744]

As a Kyrgyz person it was interesting to see things from your perspective. I really enjoyed the vlog and your interaction with locals, but it makes me sad to see my people living in terrible conditions. I hope you'll come back in summer and visit lake Sary Chelek and Arslanbob and share some spectacular views with your subscribers. And all of the people in the comment section don't be surprised with the hospitality of locals, its our national trait😊. Also Mr. Bald your channel is a true gem . P.s . Bride kidnapping is illegal and considered as a serious crime nowadays, even though it was widely practiced tradition back in the days.

[@nikobellic570]

Ghengis Khan probably introduced it to Central Asia

[@Sidek0]

@@nikobellic570 It was practiced long before Chingis Khan

[@SwedePotato314]

I saw a KZbin video where they did it... but they seemed to already be dating and engaged and it seemed to be a planned thing more for tradition. That's the vibe I got. It was a video that was a few years old from Vice.

[@transnerdboy]

im glad that it's illegal, although sadly it happens still in your country and some surrounding countries, as well as trafficking the women. its horrific.

[@cbrounce]

You have a breathtaking and beautiful country!!!

[@Stand.Your.Ground.]

So much history. Sad to see us all fighting when and if we embrace the positive possibilities are endless! Great work on this video I enjoyed!

[@Charles-xe2qh]

Bloody hell, I was just thinking "I wonder whatever happened to that incredible lady that B&B used to travel around with" and suddenly she is back! Outstanding videos that you do B&B!

[@martymartin2894]

Are they a couple.

[@user-vw9fd6tw7q]

@@martymartin2894 i think she's more like a fuck buddy witch isn't that bad

[@lawrencelawrence3920]

The two super adventurers, Alina and Mr. Bald are back on a fantastic adventure. Johnny is having a rest. Impressive to see the hospitality of the locals in presenting all the food. It is a typical hospitality from my Russian upbringing.

[@aherneeoin11]

Thankfully Johnny is taking some time out.

[@andywarner3829]

Is she the women from Belarus ?

[@gesasaint3501]

Did you ever heard of Shiey? His adventures are absolute stunning

[@carsten9168]

Your journey does remind us that even in the far, remote corners of the rarely visited, there are still genuine, kind, friendly and helpful folks like these Kyrzgz and Uzbek folks ! Poor in wealth but richest at heart !

[@MesfinG]

Ha, normally that's where you find the most genuine people, almost everywhere you go.

[@princeedwardislandrealtor]

I am watching along with the world as events unfold in Ukraine. No longer just an obscure point on the globe, wholly the result of your taking us along and introducing us to Ukraine's proud and valiant people. Your travels and your curiosity have not been in vain. Stay safe my friend.

[@s.h.702]

You sir are INCREDIBLE. Who needs a Netflix documentary when we have you. You who does a far better job than any network. You deserve all the praise!!

[@Killswitch1411]

That would requite a film crew and changing his format and making travel much harder.. Be thankful what we have. Large networks would bring much more stress.

[@Raphanial]

@@Killswitch1411I think you missunderstod his comment

[@sleepingdragonsstir7737]

I like this guy, he travels to places off the holiday radar and appears to give a good personal unbiased view. Been watching him for a year or two, nice to see him back.

[@NostyFripples]

everyone has a bias even if it only comes from the scope of their knowledge

[@emiliaburgos5404]

@@NostyFripples k

[@KR-mm4el]

@@NostyFripples k

[@randagebro]

@@NostyFripples k

[@AH-wt7zu]

@@NostyFripples k

[@sr6633]

Can't believe how warm and welcoming people are.. Glad you're both OK.

[@MrWolfSnack]

I know Baldy & Bankrupt said that 2021 would be when he was calling it quits and doing something else with his life and not doing these videos anymore, but I do think that this would be a great career to have - being a travel journalist and I hope he reconsiders about quitting - or at least having it be a summer vacation type travel series. This video was a hell of a comeback. Not even CNN would give two shits about showing this place, so Bald is doing something genuinely important I feel even if he doesn't know it - if not for our entertainment watching a British man stumble around the USSR and do crazy things but also for the people that live in these places to get some worldwide exposure. His videos when he was doing India and Hindu territories, they all loved his vids and showing places that was part of their village and cities that nobody else would. Just something about his character, he has great charisma at engaging with people, and people are always so surprised when he speaks in their languages.

[@dvv18]

CNN giving any shit at all? You serious?

[@PurpleCh4lk]

@@dvv18 What you mean?

[@dostrazzz4647]

I didn’t even know he was quitting, mind sharing the video where he explains it?

[@MrWolfSnack]

@@dostrazzz4647 It was in one of his videos from March or April - I forget which one. He was standing in a flea market when he said it. He also posted it often on his Instagram acct. in several photos. There was also a news article/blog post about it from a 3rd party as well.

[@Melly-Mang]

he's not a travel journalist, well yes inadvertently that too, but his main reasoning fo travelling to such places is that he's a pickup artist. and a pretty good one as i hear

[@kerrynball2734]

Expecting a french car to survive the Soviet Union is optimism at its highest.

[@MrRywee123]

Their products quit as much as their people

[@liquidbrainstorm]

Expecting a French car to survive full stop is a big ask.

[@greggie111]

Well it went much further than Napoleon. The Frenchies are improving

[@janruneorkas3571]

Hmm - This car is not french, only french branded, it is also reliable - seems like the 4x4 version wouldve done wonders though 😎

[@ert5585]

Is Romanian made under French brand mate worth for the money you pay

[@jumotorgar3327]

Nice to see Alinchik looking pretty & vibrant as always! What an adventure this one is... truly fascinating!

[@niallcampion78]

This is just brilliant hats off to you both this is why KZbin was invented. The country is beautiful the people are too thanks for bringing this to us. Greetings from Ireland.

[@tokingreens]

Incredible journey - still in your prime...no other travel vlogger informs and entertains like you. So very nice to see Alinchick!

[@philc1884]

Bald has some set of balls navigating these mountain roads in the middle of winter. Another amazing adventure, thank you!

[@MrWolfSnack]

He should worry if the tires are as bald as his head (as most tires in russia are)

[@tB3o3tR9o9]

31:23 "oh you're in the Bin hello" ahahah

[@philc1884]

@@tB3o3tR9o9 haha, I saw that but it didn't register. Oddly, he cuts to the mouse mosaic but then goes back and gives her some money. He's pretty awesome.

[@actiongeek1]

THIS is a return to the Bald & Bankrupt Soviet adventurizing that made me fall in love with Ben's style of exposing us all to... well, EVERYTHING! Thank you for continuing to explore the world for/with us!

[@arcsta_rr]

The Originatorr!!!!!!!!🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@FishBaitBlue]

All of Bald’s videos are intriguing. They should serve as a reminder to the vast majority of us how truly fortunate we are.

[@replicators]

I'm genuinely envious of your ability to switch languages so seamlessly.

[@Z77__0]

Kyrgyzstan has incredible scenery, the snow-capped mountains and empty roads looked breathtaking. And it's always incredible to see how people in this part of the world, living in remote locations are always hospitable and give without expecting anything in return. This kind of generosity is normal in deprived areas. What an adventure!

[@amandadonegan2137]

I wouldnt call that area deprived! Id say beautifully unspoiled and so are the people! 'Civilisation' only seems to bring greed hate and covetousness ....ld rather live with them than my spitefilled begrudging xtian neighbours

[@Z77__0]

I'm just comparing the economic situation of their living conditions to countries like US, UK, etc... It's obviously not as well developed as the West. But the people are in a league of their own! A person from an industrial city in England, would never invite a stranger to their house for tea.

[@brettd3206]

Very insightful and Alina makes such a lovely travel companion. I've had the opportunity to meet a woman from Belarus in the USA, but Alina is a rare beauty. I'm also fortunate to have a profesora who occasionally travels with me seeing the less known sites of Mexico.

[@billkipper3264]

Avoid this Soviet Exclave? Hell, you can't even get to it. What a great adventure. Glad you two are okay to live and film another day.

[@twRage96]

Glad you're alright, Ben and Alina - looks like a nasty crash, glad to see you are ok. Can't wait to see the next adventure!

[@n_o_]

lol i spent the whole video in fear of an actual automobile collision after glancing at this comment. glad it was NOT A CRASH.

[@Henrito123]

@@n_o_ Did you not see the end of the video?

[@zk4929]

@@JL-uu3lv see the end of the video, you goldfish brain lol

[@MyNameIsNidos]

@@zk4929 He probably thought the crash op was talking about was them getting stuck in the snow. No need to call him names my guy, be kind. I thought the same thing too until seeing the very end.

[@hugster5052]

@@JL-uu3lv yes, there was

[@grizzlycmmg9578]

Seeing these videos has made me realize how insanely lucky I am to have been born and raised in the United States. These people seem far less fortunate but continue to wear smiles on their faces and help Strangers, and that’s far more impressive to me than any riches a Country may have.