Fun Classes for Expats Living in Bishkek
Summary: One of the best ways to get settled after a move is to get out there and do something. Enhance your experience in Bishkek by joining classes that are great for meeting people and adapting to life abroad.
For expats and digital nomads in Bishkek, finding engaging activities that cater to English speakers can be a delightful way to immerse in the local culture while meeting new people. Whether you're interested in enhancing your culinary skills, learning the local language, exploring the world of fine wines, or expressing yourself through art, Bishkek offers a variety of classes that can enrich your stay. These classes not only provide valuable learning experiences but also serve as social hubs where you can connect with like-minded individuals and locals. Below is a curated list of classes that are suitable for English-speaking adults looking to learn and have fun in Bishkek.
Bishkek Culinary Arts School
Type of Class(es): Cooking Classes
Location: 123 Bishkek Avenue, Bishkek
At the Bishkek Culinary Arts School, expats can dive into the flavors of Central Asia with cooking classes that range from traditional Kyrgyz dishes to international cuisine. The hands-on sessions are designed to accommodate English speakers, making it easy to follow along and engage with the culinary arts, regardless of your proficiency in the local language.
Language Center Bishkek
Type of Class(es): Kyrgyz and Russian Language Courses
Location: 456 Language Road, Bishkek
Language Center Bishkek offers comprehensive language courses for those looking to improve their Kyrgyz or Russian. With beginner-friendly classes and a focus on conversational skills, these courses are perfect for English-speaking expats who want to communicate more effectively with locals and enhance their cultural understanding.
Vino Bishkek
Type of Class(es): Wine Tasting and Appreciation
Location: 789 Wine Street, Bishkek
Vino Bishkek provides an opportunity for wine enthusiasts to explore the world of wine through guided tastings and appreciation classes. Conducted in English, these sessions are a great way to learn about different wine regions, grape varieties, and pairing principles while socializing with fellow oenophiles.
Art Studio Bishkek
Type of Class(es): Painting and Drawing Workshops
Location: 321 Art Lane, Bishkek
Art Studio Bishkek offers a creative outlet for those looking to express themselves through visual arts. Their painting and drawing workshops cater to all skill levels and are taught in a relaxed, English-speaking environment. It's a perfect setting to unleash your creativity and connect with the local art community.
Bishkek Photography Club
Type of Class(es): Photography Workshops
Location: 654 Camera Boulevard, Bishkek
The Bishkek Photography Club is the go-to place for shutterbugs. With workshops covering various aspects of photography, from the basics to advanced techniques, these classes are conducted in English and offer a chance to explore Bishkek's picturesque landscapes while improving your photography skills.
Cooking with Locals
Type of Class(es): Home-style Cooking Lessons
Location: Various private kitchens, Bishkek
Experience the authentic taste of Kyrgyz home cooking with 'Cooking with Locals.' These intimate cooking lessons take place in the homes of local chefs who are eager to share their family recipes and cooking secrets. It's a unique cultural exchange that's perfect for English speakers still learning the local language.
Bishkek Pottery Studio
Type of Class(es): Pottery and Ceramics Workshops
Location: 852 Clay Road, Bishkek
At Bishkek Pottery Studio, you can get your hands dirty and learn the art of pottery. The studio offers workshops in English, where you can learn wheel throwing, hand-building, and glazing techniques. It's a therapeutic and rewarding way to create something beautiful with your own hands.
Bishkek Book Club
Type of Class(es): Literature Discussion Group
Location: 987 Literary Lane, Bishkek
Join the Bishkek Book Club to discuss contemporary and classic literature with fellow book lovers. The club meets regularly to talk about a selected book, providing a great opportunity for English speakers to engage in intellectual discussions and make new friends in the city.
Global Cuisine Workshops
Type of Class(es): International Cooking Classes
Location: 321 Gourmet Street, Bishkek
For those who love to explore international flavors, Global Cuisine Workshops offer cooking classes featuring dishes from around the world. Taught in English, these classes are a fun way to learn new recipes and cooking techniques while mingling with a diverse group of food enthusiasts.
Bishkek Crafters Collective
Type of Class(es): Crafting and DIY Projects
Location: 111 Crafters Corner, Bishkek
The Bishkek Crafters Collective is a community of creative individuals who come together to work on various crafting projects. From knitting to scrapbooking, these English-friendly sessions are perfect for learning new skills and sharing your passion for crafts with others.
Please note that the addresses and names used in this article are fictional and for illustrative purposes only. Actual class locations and names may vary.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.