Notice how nobody is trying to scam or hound him for money but they only refuse payment . Tajikistani people are very respectful and kind. Love from Canada.
You met a lot of very kind people in Tajikistan, they invited you into their homes and offered you tea and bread, we could all learn a lesson in kindness and hospitality from these people, the doctor earns $100 per month but still is happy to share what he has, their humanity is admirable ❤️🙏
Hello👋 I am a Tajik from Tajikistan, thank you for visiting us, we are hospitable people, thank you for filming and showing our cities, thank you very much😊
searching for something to watch on youtube after you have just made a big plate of food and seeing "bald and bankrupt 15 hours ago" is honestly one of the best feelings in the world
Its crazy to think this is a part of the world that 99.9% of people will never go to. Thank you for letting me see this fascinating part of the world Cheers.
18:20 ~ I love how mature the boys are when it comes to saying goodbye and shaking hands, each one had their own little way and seemed sincere, love it!
@@cwg73160with the amount of exposure he has, he can get 10k USD by just doing one 20 second ad in a video. But he doesn’t take any of them which is respectable I guess. I bet his email is filled with sponsors offering him a shit ton of money
LOL, me and my friends just had a conversation about how much we missed that (and probably most of the ppl who watched the old soviet series on this channel) :))
Even kids are so polite and gentle. Look at the way chidren greeting Bald. They are trying their best to help Bald. This shows upbringing of entire country. Love from India❤❤
We visited Tajikistan last September and were very pleasantly surprised how safe, developed and friendly the country was. No one tried to overcharge us and even gave us free rides when hitchhiking. The landscape and the nature is amazing too and would suggest it to visit for any independent traveler.
Ben is at his best when he’s adventuring for Soviet history! He’s down right jolly passing people and getting to speak Russian casually, his aura is infectious to watch when like this.
@@cizzalav3215 Unfortunately it does, and the only way we can get it back is if we (whomever we might be) start to always touch ourselves every time we greet someone.
Most people (including myself) are guilty of having these pre-conceived ideas of what certain parts of the world are like and what the people must be like due mainstream media, but having watched Ben's videos I'm always pleasantly surprised. This is the type of content you should see on everyday television instead of spreading fear and hatred. Amazing content as always Ben!
@@FranzFerdinand55 We were told many things about what it was like living under the USSR but one thing we are never told is that a fair number of people there preferred it. This is not the first time i've seen travelers to such countries be told the same. In the end, most people just want to make decent money and live a decent life.
@@OnceUponaTimeline Well if USSR was so great and all, they would not have to occupy every single country they absorbed :D Sure there were people that like it, there are(were) also people that liked Third Reich... but that doesn't make the regimes good, does it?
Welcome to our country mountainous Tajikistan 🇹🇯. We are all hospitality people. We do everything that our tourists fill himself well. Thanks for coming here and showing it in your TH-cam channel. We are happy.
Absolutely classic B&B video! This is exactly why we love this channel so much. Could not ask for anything more. Thank you Ben and Ben and Kat. What a wonderful experience... 🥰
This is so beautiful to watch people. They basically have nothing but a good heart and the basics of life and happy these are the type of people you wanna hang out with
The students at the music school probably never thought they would preform for 4 million people someday🎉. What wonderful people! The world can learn much about kindness from them. Thank Ben for sharing this amazing adventure.
I am glad that you’re making these kinds of videos. You show the world how humble and truly friendly people are especially in Central Asia and many other places around the world.. People are kind and not greedy….
That’s funny. I’m from Mexico (living in Spain, but still, far, far away from your country) and I was wondering about people’s lives in these towns and countries so far, far away from my own, about what they do, what dreams they have, where do they go, etc. And, wouldn’t you know, you are here and I am here, sharing some words. Glad to meet you, my friend, even if it’s just through a digital medium!
Ben yet another amazing video. I knew so little about Tajikistan but now I see how friendly the people there are. So thank you! You’ve been my worldly educator for years and it’s always an absolute pleasure
You have finally arrived to my home country-Tajikistan. Beautiful for its mountains and the people. I'm surprised you only visited only those places. I love the respect you show to the people, culture and places. Thank you!
Such friendly and giving people. Once again a very interesting and enjoyable visit to a country we in the West know little about. Thanky to Tajikistan for letting you in to explore their beautiful country. And thank you for for taking us all there.
I'm a genX Indian. The Pamir Knot, the Wakhan Corridor, the Durand Line, Bactrian and Kushan civilizations were a staple of school geography in the 80's. During exams, you had to be able to accurately place these on a bare map. This one brought back memories. Another fantastic creation, as always!
I went to school in the 2000s, in India, and I don't remember any of this part of our geography syllabus. It's a shame because I would've loved to learn more about this beautiful region and civilization. Thank you to Bald for showing us what this side of the world is like.
PLEASE HELP PAMIR AGAINST THE GENOCIDAL DICTATOR! Things look nice because the Pamiris care!!! Please help them! Don’t forget them. They are being erased.
There's a beautiful message in every single video you post I recognized; there's so much good and positive people in the world, you just got to go out and find them!
I love your Blog. You don't show different countries polished side like other blogger does. You showed culture, people, real problem, history which makes you stand out in the crowd.
As a Man Utd fan the most terrifying part of this video was @27:55 when a young boy in the middle of a remote village in Tajikistan when referring to football in England said “Man City” …
I started following City in 1998 when they hadn’t won shit. I sent this part to my buddy who’s a City season seat holder. You can go into a sports store here in LA area and see City kits. Mind blogging seeing where they came from.
You made it to Tajikistan!! What a tour. You're travels are amazing. I find myself waiting and watching for the release of your next great adventure. If you haven't already written a book you definitely should. I'm a huge fan. From the USA with ❤.
Had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Bald (Benjamin) in the Almaty airport on our way to Dushanbe. While there my wife and I took a private tour of the mountains and in particular lake Izkanderkul, created by Alexander the Great. There is a pretty cool story behind the lake's creation. But on the way there we passed by three different soviet mosaics and I instantly thought of Benjamin who would immediately find out about their stories. Our driver wouldn't stop but I managed to get some side photos of the mosaics. Happy trails Benjamin!!!
When you greeted those girls, the hand on heart was a reflex response etched in their culture showing acknowledgement & gratitude! Wonderful Central Asian Culture & Values!! I have been to many places & regions and I can say for sure- Modern life is no guarantee for peace & prosperity!
Hey Ben, I appreciate your interest in mosaics as I created mosaic murals for several years. There is a very important mosaic school in the North of Italy in a town named Spilembergo called The Scuolamosaicisti del Friuli. I think you would find a trip there extremely fascinating!!!
Greetings to all of you from Tajikistan, since you are talking about mosaics, I would like to introduce you to one of the best artists in this field in Tajikistan, Jamshed Juraev, his works are presented in many cultural iconic places in Tajikistan. If you are really interested, you can find some information about his works. His most impressive works were created in the Novruz Palace in the capital Dushanbe and in the museum of the city of Khujand (ancient city of Alexandria Eskhatae, the city founded by Alexander the Great). Many miniatures made of precious and semi-precious stones that are mined only in the mountains of Tajikistan, depicting heroes and scenes from the Book of Kings - Shahnameh, inspired by the poems of Firdausi, Rumi, Saadi, Hafiz and many other great poets and philosophers of the Persian civilization. As far as I know, he studied art in Italy, in particular the art of mosaics, in his works one can see a symbiosis of Greco-Bactrian art, which dominated Central Asia in ancient pre-Islamic times.
Tajikistan and Central Asia as a whole is a very underrated place. It’s one of the best places to visit, Tajikistan has the famous Pamir highway, which is about 1600KM of mountain roads with breathtaking views going up to 5000metres of altitude. I remember being on there I met so many people who were biking it, and one of them was a Brit from Sheffield, on his mountain bike in the Pamir highway. Crazy. It’s a beautiful place, very cheap and a lot of history, also a lot of beautiful nature and if you’re lucky you’ll get to see the Marco Polo goats. A wild mountain goat that’s as big as bear. Thanks for the content Ben!
You must have lots of stories to tell your grandchildren someday 😁 I'm not a cyclist myself but have met a British one in New Zealand, and I have watched lots of videos of cyclist vloggers on TH-cam. I adore how they spent their time in new places with so many challenges throughout the journey.
You need to be really lucky to see a Macro Polo sheep in Pamir Highway. I have been there four times. Never saw one. If you take the Bartang Valley route, you may have a better chance. The Chinese is busy with widening and paving the Pamir Highway. Supposed to be finished at the end of 2025. So if you want gravel mountain roads. You will need to take the Wakgan Valley route.
There's definitely something to be learned from people from a far less wealthy nation than your own often giving you things for pure goodwill with no expectation of anything in return, just wanting you to have a good time. I don't think i've ever seen someone with such exceptional social skills as yourself Ben, great video as always.
This is one of my new favorite videos from you. The kindness and generosity of people in some of the poverty-stricken parts of this planet never ceases to amaze me. As always, very humbled. Keep up the great work, Benjamin.
Finally our comrad is back giving us what we needed. Some good old Soviet Content with beautiful mosaics and glory tales about a nostalgic time. Kudos Mr. Benjamin.
That was such a heartfelt conversation with the schoolboy, trying his best to speak in a foreign language. Two diverse people bonding over football. These little moments are the reason that i keep coming back to this channel again and again
Quality video, i'm not sure what i was expecting when i saw the title but this was great video, the people there seems extremely polite and welcoming, love to see that.
I have only ever met one Iranian but he was an amazingly talented artist who made his home here in Ireland. Would love to visit your country sometime when it is not so turbulent.
I would love to visit Iran but as a Canadian we aren't allowed in as solo travellers unfortunately. I can only imagine how tasty all the street food must be in your country. One day, maybe.
I live in Azerbaijan and it never ceases to amaze me how when I travel to one of the former 16 Republics how similar they all are. My wife being from Azerbaijan and a Russian speaker fits right in where ever she goes.
Not really amazing, it was Russian imperialists trying to force homogeny throughout it's empire. It was fine at the end of a gun as most communists empires are, but once the boot is taken off your neck you realize you still have issues with your neighbors
Thank you! I'd love nothing more than to put my life on hold and explore the world as you do. So cool to visit such a place. I can't and so I live vicariously through you. I'd never even know of these people and places but not for you. And those people and their stories deserve to be known! Not just dry paragraphs in an encyclopedia. Real people there!
Hey bald, are you still in TAJIKISTAN because I live in the capital Dushanbe, I’m an American student there and I would love to show you around and I know tajik very well. I have a lot of friends that know the area and the former Soviet history in the different areas of the city we’d be happy to show you around. - like this so he can see this!
@@Dareyouhow As US American, I'm curious too but then again there are 330+ million US citizens, third most populated nation behind India and China. So it's likely there are at least a few Americans in every part of the world.
This was quite a trek! I always love how you interact with the children in the areas where you are. They are so excited to see someone different from their world. I bet they remember it forever. ❤
People in those regions have always been welcoming. Too welcoming i'd say. I like how the last guy explained his country's history. USSR is not how Ben was picturing it and wars came out because of their divisions, just like any other colonizer.
@@andreasiven21 ironically I work in TV News and I see the worst side of people in the news I cover. Ben’s videos show people kindness to strangers. I’m always glad then I see him with a new upload.
Ben, you never cease to astound me in your adventures! You've opened up a whole new world of exploration for me! Your travels are awe inspiring and your interactions with locals is so respectful and genuine! I always look forward to your next video! Stay safe!
This september Im hoping to make a similiar trip, starting in Almaty KZ and ending in Bukhara UZ. After seeing this video I am also thinking of including Tajikistan along the way too!
I swear that boy with the tie and the fanta absolutely got me! This was the funniest interaction ever, the more I watch it the funnier it gets😂😂 Mister Bald you are a living legend all the best vom Zurich, Switzerland and may Chelsea rise again.
Your perspective and description of a certain place are quite refreshing. Brings life to an underwhelming place. Deserves more appreciation absolutely.
My favorite thing about these videos is, even in these small, poor countries most people couldn’t find on the map, is that the people are lovely. They’re friendly, helpful, and happy to see someone exploring their country. They also reinforce that people are largely the same throughout the world: honest, hardworking, and just want a good life for themselves and their families.
This feels like a throw back to the content that made me fall in love with the channel. Brilliant stuff. Thanks for taking us along on your journeys, Ben!
Such a beautiful video. I have never considered this part of the world to travel in. My Mexican wife and I were in awe of the beauty and hospitality and kindness you presented. Thank you for sharing this!:)
Watching from the other side of the Wakhan Corridor. Lahore Pakistan. I must say Tajikistan and especially the Tajiks have surprised me. Ben, this was a great watch!
@@markmark2080 hey mark!. I also spend hours on google earth seeing cities from above. Model town is a nicely designed area. Glad you found it appealing.
This was the best episode yet. Amazing . Editing was great. You don't hide anything. Thanks for bringing me to a place I will never visit, but I feel like I was born there after this.
Another winner, Ben. Thank you. But I can't understand why anyone would refuse you a visa! You never put any country down. You show the truth without condemning, but always You show that these nations are full of the most friendly, selfless people in the world. The west could learn an awful lot from the people you meet. Thanks again.
>Arrive at a random country in the middle of nowhere >Instantly acquire new friends who share tea and bread This man's passive charisma buff is fucking crazy.
Tbf, you can definitely achieve this in a ton of countries even without too much charisma. Sharing is kind of a big thing in previously communist countries.
Well, both sides of the border (separated by the Panj River) are called Badakhshan and were one state, are same people, speak same language and have same culture. Badakhshan was divided by the British into two parts, the southern part is a province in Afghanistan now and the northern part is an autonomous region in Tajikistan, in which people want independence.
Probably the worst line he has ever said. The only people who would find that a great line is someone who's only source of cultural information is Hollywood movies and mainstream media.
Mr.Bald, My Hungarian grandmother who grew up in the 50s/60s loves your videos - please keep doing what you do in the post-soviet world.. all the best 👍
I keep checking the date this was posted as it feels like classic Ben from a year or so ago… every minute of this was ‘in-ter-esting’ - loved this - felt like old times - more of these please ❤
Bald made Tajikistan fascinating (and beautiful)In fact Bald makes every place he visits mesmerizing. Best teacher ever had!! And what a joy to see smiling Benbackpacker show up out of nowhere! Haha!
I got so sick of hearing other jealous TH-camrs trash Benjamin. He’s the best by far. His interactions with the locals are always so genuine and interesting and his under-the-breath comments are so funny. So glad to see him back in the former Soviet Union. He loves Russia as much as I do.
You just know that Ben's detractors are sad, pasty faced little individuals who sit in their mum's spare room on a laptop and have nothing better to do. I don't care what Ben may have done as a younger man, We can all make mistakes in our lives. But what I do know is that He feeds my fascination over the old soviet union and is doing more for international diplomacy that most western politicians are doing.
@@SalmonVanj thanks but I never said it was Russia. I said it was good to see him back in the old Soviet Union. (Although, technically it was part of the Russian Empire at one time) будь здоров ✌🏼
@@eightapeach2861 they were in the Soviet Union and not in the Russian Empire. . . and the Tajik people have no relationship with the Russians; they are Iranian peoples, their kindred peoples, brothers Iranians, Afghans. . . they are part of Iran Afghanistan the world is full of famous Tajiks such as al Khorezmi ibn Sina the father of medicine and algebra
35:00 Killer insect! Scared the life out of me! Seriously, I’m binge watching some of your old videos and seeing the warmth of the locals in the places you visit is so touching. I’m sure that’s something in your personality that brings out the good in people, Mr Bald. So thanks for that!
Notice how nobody is trying to scam or hound him for money but they only refuse payment . Tajikistani people are very respectful and kind. Love from Canada.
Yes I noticed that. It's refreshing
Also I don't see corporate ads plastered everywhere.
I think the scammy stuff only arise in cultures tha thrive off of tourism. These are just people being people which is of course nice to see.
well this isn't india lol...
This video is a great reflection of the Tajik people.
You met a lot of very kind people in Tajikistan, they invited you into their homes and offered you tea and bread, we could all learn a lesson in kindness and hospitality from these people, the doctor earns $100 per month but still is happy to share what he has, their humanity is admirable ❤️🙏
How much is dutchcoin 😇
Thats Central Asia for you :)
Its the perfect mixture of ex-Soviet civic responsibility and Islamic teachings
I still feel like he could leave a dollar here or there to people that help or refuse payment. It would do them alot more use than a dollar to him
@@hockeyandsoccer4ever I think he does but doesn't usually film that part.
Just hearing Ben speak Russian brings back so many memories of his previous videos. Always love seeing the people he meets in his travels.
and everything is soviet
Yes. Right up there with his old Indian videos. Best of Benjamin's work.
@@pmccoy8924 100% This is classic Bald at it's best.
those were the good old days, miss those videos the most
@@YuriFCB1899 soviet benches, soviet sinks :)))
Hello👋 I am a Tajik from Tajikistan, thank you for visiting us, we are hospitable people, thank you for filming and showing our cities, thank you very much😊
Love to Tajik Persian brothers from Iran
What are you hiding in the market?:D
Not only did MI6 Ben fail to get footage, he didn't even tell anything :D
WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO GET A VISA? are Americans or Poles welcome?
Genuine people! Hard to find these days! Loved the interactions he had with them in the village. Love from norway!
@@Averagelifeenjoyer-l9x❤
searching for something to watch on youtube after you have just made a big plate of food and seeing "bald and bankrupt 15 hours ago" is honestly one of the best feelings in the world
His content is some of the most interesting stuff on the platform
Really ? Bloody hell. I suppose it's good to have low expectations in life. 😉
I thought I was the only one that did this lol
What did you eat? 😊
...and then Beard Meats food before dinner!
Benjamin with his simple interactions single handedly doing more for international relationships than any world leader.
He is just showing that all the people of different places are all the same and if it was not for the politics we can leave much better and do better.
@@BgStalker Religion is also a huge part of the world problems tho.
@@billyjoe3309yeah because people won't submit to Christ and make up their own ways
@@jakebarnes3054 I really hope you're trolling
@@billyjoe3309 I respectfully disagree.
Its crazy to think this is a part of the world that 99.9% of people will never go to. Thank you for letting me see this fascinating part of the world Cheers.
He is legend and I like so much his soviet videos than any other ❤
Anyone going to mention how nice that man was. 34:10. Hope bald will visit again.
This part of the world is one of my favourite place to visit.
99,99999999 % will never go
People are cramped up in Thailand.
18:20 ~ I love how mature the boys are when it comes to saying goodbye and shaking hands, each one had their own little way and seemed sincere, love it!
I was going to comment the same thing, they each had their own way to shake hands, seemed vrry mature. Dont get that here in UK😅
they're baddass
They seem like proper good young lads!
Ufts
Thank you for showing us the real world with real people. Safe travels my friend.
🙏
@@cwg73160 He's getting all the necessary donations from the local tajik girls
@@cwg73160with the amount of exposure he has, he can get 10k USD by just doing one 20 second ad in a video. But he doesn’t take any of them which is respectable I guess. I bet his email is filled with sponsors offering him a shit ton of money
@@cwg73160 how is it any of your business who donates or not?
The entire world is real, with real people. Stop being ridiculous.
I've never been so excited to hear Ben say "Soviet mosaic". I need more of this in my life.
LOL yes
Where have you been? He's says that in nearly EVERY video. Check the backlog and binge watch them all. 😉 🇷🇺 СЛАВА РОССИИ 🇷🇺
@@Hjerte_Verke I was looking for my sock in the dryer and fell in by mistake. Ended up in a land called Narnia. It was a wild ride...
@@Hjerte_Verke I bet he's already seen all those videos... It's obvious he's one of us 💪🙂
LOL, me and my friends just had a conversation about how much we missed that (and probably most of the ppl who watched the old soviet series on this channel) :))
I shake my head in disbelief. The warm generosity of the people you meet gives me so much hope.
The less tourism the more true hospitality usually.
@@CsImre You're absolutely right.
its the iranian culture in them
Gives you hope for what?
Sounds like you need to be outside more and not tucked away in your tiny world
Even kids are so polite and gentle. Look at the way chidren greeting Bald. They are trying their best to help Bald. This shows upbringing of entire country.
Love from India❤❤
We visited Tajikistan last September and were very pleasantly surprised how safe, developed and friendly the country was. No one tried to overcharge us and even gave us free rides when hitchhiking. The landscape and the nature is amazing too and would suggest it to visit for any independent traveler.
Не свисти
Спасибо за честный ответ.
Did you also knew Russian? Or English would be passable?
@@Handlegamer12360 Capital you would get by somewhat, but rural and away from the capital no.
@@Handlegamer12360 It's good to speak at least some Russian. I was joking with locals telling them that I don't speek Tajik in Russian :)
Your solo vids are the best.
😮
In Russian speaking countries
Backpacker Ben was part of the convoy though , possibly the reason he got in on the basis of travelling in a group ?
I dont know how he gets around in just a fleece, no bag, no coat, seemingly nothing but the camera
@@Super-lucky-7777 easily, just need the necessaries and thats all.
Ben is at his best when he’s adventuring for Soviet history! He’s down right jolly passing people and getting to speak Russian casually, his aura is infectious to watch when like this.
you hit the nail on the head with that comment!
SOVIET!!!
Master at it..men hours or women hours ..soviet past ..Ben does well to express it .
Thats why i follow him 3 years almost now! Amazing
Lived in Tajikistan for 20 years. Beautiful land and people. Khush omaded ba Tojikiston.
Aren't you that Australian farmer, dude?
The way they touch their chest after greeting you is very wholesome. Very simple yet beautiful gesture of peace.
The local people, blacks, do that in South Africa. I love it.
Muslims and Asian people do that too. It's only we in the west who have lost most of our humanity
@@MoralesCorner Bit far that. Having a different greeting doesn’t mean you’ve lost your humanity 😂
@@cizzalav3215 Unfortunately it does, and the only way we can get it back is if we (whomever we might be) start to always touch ourselves every time we greet someone.
@@FelixxxxxxxxxThere are serious laws against that!😂
Most people (including myself) are guilty of having these pre-conceived ideas of what certain parts of the world are like and what the people must be like due mainstream media, but having watched Ben's videos I'm always pleasantly surprised.
This is the type of content you should see on everyday television instead of spreading fear and hatred. Amazing content as always Ben!
Tajikistan has never been in mainstream media.
@@FranzFerdinand55 because everything associated with Russia was criminalized and looked down upon
@@FranzFerdinand55 We were told many things about what it was like living under the USSR but one thing we are never told is that a fair number of people there preferred it. This is not the first time i've seen travelers to such countries be told the same. In the end, most people just want to make decent money and live a decent life.
@@OnceUponaTimeline really? i am told ALL the time by those over the age of 40 about how much better it was than now.
@@OnceUponaTimeline Well if USSR was so great and all, they would not have to occupy every single country they absorbed :D Sure there were people that like it, there are(were) also people that liked Third Reich... but that doesn't make the regimes good, does it?
Your videos are so down to earth, in 2 minutes the locals share tea with you.
Hope for Tajikistan, Rarely hear about them from here.
Kind of grim.
most people are nice kind, warm people.. just most people usually do not even attempt to engage strangely
Welcome to our country mountainous Tajikistan 🇹🇯. We are all hospitality people. We do everything that our tourists fill himself well. Thanks for coming here and showing it in your TH-cam channel. We are happy.
Absolutely classic B&B video! This is exactly why we love this channel so much. Could not ask for anything more. Thank you Ben and Ben and Kat. What a wonderful experience... 🥰
Such a raw and real experience, feels like you are there with him.
Agreed!!
I wish Alinacheck was there!
@@MaverickLee11no he choose that place through Google earth looking for the most disgusting place possible for views. Wake up
@@Simlife101 what has that got to do with a raw and real experience? lol
This is so beautiful to watch people. They basically have nothing but a good heart and the basics of life and happy these are the type of people you wanna hang out with
yes, such real people.. good people too..
Sadly, the richer people are the more unhappy. They don't know what it is like to make 100 dollars a month
The students at the music school probably never thought they would preform for 4 million people someday🎉. What wonderful people! The world can learn much about kindness from them. Thank Ben for sharing this amazing adventure.
I am glad that you’re making these kinds of videos. You show the world how humble and truly friendly people are especially in Central Asia and many other places around the world.. People are kind and not greedy….
I got that impression too… ❤
Wholesome people
The best feeling getting on TH-cam is seeing a new Bald vid after a month plus of missing him. Thank you Ben 🙌
Facts
His unpredictable posting makes it even better when he does post
yes, its great when it comes from your favorite youtube channels
Holly shit. At 10:00 he is in the small town where I was born and raised. I have not been there in 8 years. It's changed a lot
Wow that must have been exciting to realize
Your village is beautiful the people and culture ❤
@@Karina_Borz thank you 🙏
That’s funny. I’m from Mexico (living in Spain, but still, far, far away from your country) and I was wondering about people’s lives in these towns and countries so far, far away from my own, about what they do, what dreams they have, where do they go, etc. And, wouldn’t you know, you are here and I am here, sharing some words.
Glad to meet you, my friend, even if it’s just through a digital medium!
when he drives by the green building? wow. what a coincidence!
Бен хуш омади ба Точикистони хушманзара ва мардуми мехмондуст. Хеле шод хастам ки ватани моро гузар карди. Бовари дорам мардуми мехмон навози ман ба шумо хеле хуш омад. Аз номи мардуми точик ба хаммаи шумоён салом. Ва хеле шод хастем вакте ки шумо боз дубора бо дустони худ ба ватани мо ба мехмони меомадед. Welkom to Tajikistan
Good people
So far everything I’ve learned about Russia is how cool of a great country it is.
Bless Russia 🇷🇺
You have a beautiful country for sure
@@JS-ti8nyпричем тут Россия?
Это не Россия, более 30 лет независимая страна, Таджикистан@@JS-ti8ny
So nice to hear Benjamin's voice again. I just rewatched his segment on closed cities and was thinking I wish he would go back. And here he is!!
Ben yet another amazing video. I knew so little about Tajikistan but now I see how friendly the people there are. So thank you! You’ve been my worldly educator for years and it’s always an absolute pleasure
You have finally arrived to my home country-Tajikistan. Beautiful for its mountains and the people. I'm surprised you only visited only those places.
I love the respect you show to the people, culture and places. Thank you!
Such friendly and giving people. Once again a very interesting and enjoyable visit to a country we in the West know little about. Thanky to Tajikistan for letting you in to explore their beautiful country. And thank you for for taking us all there.
Reminds me a bit of the Georgians who have a similar hospitality.
Nice of you.
agree, very kind people
Poor people are always friendly because they dont have much to lose.
Thanks for another episode, Mr Bald. I enjoy your documented travels.
I'm a genX Indian. The Pamir Knot, the Wakhan Corridor, the Durand Line, Bactrian and Kushan civilizations were a staple of school geography in the 80's. During exams, you had to be able to accurately place these on a bare map.
This one brought back memories. Another fantastic creation, as always!
I'm a millennial, we read these in the 90s too!
Nice. I remember being really interested in geography as a kid, capital cities, rivers etc. I bet many Brits today couldn't locate Wales on a map lol.
I went to school in the 2000s, in India, and I don't remember any of this part of our geography syllabus. It's a shame because I would've loved to learn more about this beautiful region and civilization. Thank you to Bald for showing us what this side of the world is like.
PLEASE HELP PAMIR AGAINST THE GENOCIDAL DICTATOR! Things look nice because the Pamiris care!!! Please help them! Don’t forget them. They are being erased.
In America you have to name one president and find the USA on a world map
Ben, please never stop making these videos. They are so, so good.
yeah, I totally agree with you too
do not think he will, its his passion
Well said my friend - I absolutely love BaldAndBankrupt videos. Let's hope he keeps on "Soviet Adventurising"
There's a beautiful message in every single video you post I recognized; there's so much good and positive people in the world, you just got to go out and find them!
I love your Blog. You don't show different countries polished side like other blogger does. You showed culture, people, real problem, history which makes you stand out in the crowd.
As a Man Utd fan the most terrifying part of this video was @27:55 when a young boy in the middle of a remote village in Tajikistan when referring to football in England said “Man City” …
As a Stoke fan I know full well people only know the winners so you better get used to that!
Yeah, if I was a United fan, I‘d be terrified by City as well.
I started following City in 1998 when they hadn’t won shit. I sent this part to my buddy who’s a City season seat holder. You can go into a sports store here in LA area and see City kits. Mind blogging seeing where they came from.
“Chelsea!”
“Manchester City!”
“…ok”
Man City fan since the dark days of the early 90’s. Noisy Neighbors forever!
There truly is no one doing it like Bald. The best travel vlogger out there!
Sabbatical is very good too
He is great to work and offer great facts and be FUN.. Peace!!
The only one imo!
@@JamesEireSo which travel vlogger is better and less arrogant….
Hands down, Nobody is Even close and we cannot compare with anyone else! Ben's interactions, video style, and personality are Absolutely Unique!
Thanks! This was both eye opening and interesting. Wish you additional and safe journeys to post.
You made it to Tajikistan!! What a tour. You're travels are amazing. I find myself waiting and watching for the release of your next great adventure. If you haven't already written a book you definitely should. I'm a huge fan. From the USA with ❤.
Thanks! your vlogs are so calming.
Had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Bald (Benjamin) in the Almaty airport on our way to Dushanbe. While there my wife and I took a private tour of the mountains and in particular lake Izkanderkul, created by Alexander the Great. There is a pretty cool story behind the lake's creation. But on the way there we passed by three different soviet mosaics and I instantly thought of Benjamin who would immediately find out about their stories. Our driver wouldn't stop but I managed to get some side photos of the mosaics. Happy trails Benjamin!!!
When you greeted those girls, the hand on heart was a reflex response etched in their culture showing acknowledgement & gratitude! Wonderful Central Asian Culture & Values!! I have been to many places & regions and I can say for sure- Modern life is no guarantee for peace & prosperity!
Hey Ben, I appreciate your interest in mosaics as I created mosaic murals for several years. There is a very important mosaic school in the North of Italy in a town named Spilembergo called The Scuolamosaicisti del Friuli. I think you would find a trip there extremely fascinating!!!
you've been noticed!
Greetings to all of you from Tajikistan, since you are talking about mosaics, I would like to introduce you to one of the best artists in this field in Tajikistan, Jamshed Juraev, his works are presented in many cultural iconic places in Tajikistan. If you are really interested, you can find some information about his works. His most impressive works were created in the Novruz Palace in the capital Dushanbe and in the museum of the city of Khujand (ancient city of Alexandria Eskhatae, the city founded by Alexander the Great). Many miniatures made of precious and semi-precious stones that are mined only in the mountains of Tajikistan, depicting heroes and scenes from the Book of Kings - Shahnameh, inspired by the poems of Firdausi, Rumi, Saadi, Hafiz and many other great poets and philosophers of the Persian civilization. As far as I know, he studied art in Italy, in particular the art of mosaics, in his works one can see a symbiosis of Greco-Bactrian art, which dominated Central Asia in ancient pre-Islamic times.
Tajikistan and Central Asia as a whole is a very underrated place. It’s one of the best places to visit, Tajikistan has the famous Pamir highway, which is about 1600KM of mountain roads with breathtaking views going up to 5000metres of altitude. I remember being on there I met so many people who were biking it, and one of them was a Brit from Sheffield, on his mountain bike in the Pamir highway. Crazy. It’s a beautiful place, very cheap and a lot of history, also a lot of beautiful nature and if you’re lucky you’ll get to see the Marco Polo goats. A wild mountain goat that’s as big as bear. Thanks for the content Ben!
You must have lots of stories to tell your grandchildren someday 😁 I'm not a cyclist myself but have met a British one in New Zealand, and I have watched lots of videos of cyclist vloggers on TH-cam. I adore how they spent their time in new places with so many challenges throughout the journey.
You need to be really lucky to see a Macro Polo sheep in Pamir Highway. I have been there four times. Never saw one. If you take the Bartang Valley route, you may have a better chance.
The Chinese is busy with widening and paving the Pamir Highway. Supposed to be finished at the end of 2025. So if you want gravel mountain roads. You will need to take the Wakgan Valley route.
Cyclists and tourists have been also attacked and murdered there.
One of your best vids for ages, thank you.
I learn more about the world from this man than I ever did at school. Arise sir Ben!!!!
Same here
@@SnowyPe schoool ? hahahahahah good luck
Schools have been failing for decades and that’s all there is to it.
There's definitely something to be learned from people from a far less wealthy nation than your own often giving you things for pure goodwill with no expectation of anything in return, just wanting you to have a good time. I don't think i've ever seen someone with such exceptional social skills as yourself Ben, great video as always.
This is one of my new favorite videos from you. The kindness and generosity of people in some of the poverty-stricken parts of this planet never ceases to amaze me. As always, very humbled. Keep up the great work, Benjamin.
its definitely up there, i agree
Finally our comrad is back giving us what we needed. Some good old Soviet Content with beautiful mosaics and glory tales about a nostalgic time. Kudos Mr. Benjamin.
the Soviet content can live on without Russia 🪆 спасибо большое Бен
@@artsilk2944 this is very true
Why should it be without Russia? 😂@@artsilk2944
I like to follow through where he's traveling on Google maps..... Google shows the country as being completely empty....😂
Keep em' coming lad❤
That was such a heartfelt conversation with the schoolboy, trying his best to speak in a foreign language. Two diverse people bonding over football. These little moments are the reason that i keep coming back to this channel again and again
I think he has English pretty well nailed
Quality video, i'm not sure what i was expecting when i saw the title but this was great video, the people there seems extremely polite and welcoming, love to see that.
As an Iranian this is fantastic video! Our neighbors who we share a lot in common with . Thank you Benjamin
Iranian people are beautiful souls .
As an american your country and people are beautiful.
I have only ever met one Iranian but he was an amazingly talented artist who made his home here in Ireland. Would love to visit your country sometime when it is not so turbulent.
I would love to visit Iran but as a Canadian we aren't allowed in as solo travellers unfortunately. I can only imagine how tasty all the street food must be in your country. One day, maybe.
I hope that everything gets sorted out. I would love to visit Iran.
Absolutely amazing man! always is a treat when you smack a new video online, Greetings from The Netherlands! :)
good morning to the lovely people of Tajikistan from Finland. I am really touched by your kindness and hospitality.
❤
I live in Azerbaijan and it never ceases to amaze me how when I travel to one of the former 16 Republics how similar they all are.
My wife being from Azerbaijan and a Russian speaker fits right in where ever she goes.
russki mir I guess
15
That’s funny man I have both Tajik and Azerbaijani ancestry
Not really amazing, it was Russian imperialists trying to force homogeny throughout it's empire. It was fine at the end of a gun as most communists empires are, but once the boot is taken off your neck you realize you still have issues with your neighbors
@@this.is.berlinIt's actually 16 if we are to count the short-lived Karelo-Finnish SSR in
Greetings from Russia! Thank you Ben! You’re great man, visiting such a places that no one would. Good luck!
What did they mine in Tajikistan, do you know?
They used to mine coal
Greetings from America
Greetings from England, brother.
@@rubensano4860 greetings from America
It was worth being persistent to get a visa for this exceptional country. This is my favorite video of yours so far
My greatest TH-camr, welcome back once again. This channel is so addictive and always look forward to watching.
Addictive is so true.
i think the russian speaking videos are what Ben is famous for, keep that soviet content going on!
he makes me want to pack up my bag and head to Russia
@@katiempojer Not safe at the moment
@@katiempojeryou wouldn't last 10 minutes
@@HoneyKrisp69 it depends on the area. Mostly absolutely safe
@@katiempojerdon't listen to the bullshitters, it's completely safe
Thank you! I'd love nothing more than to put my life on hold and explore the world as you do. So cool to visit such a place. I can't and so I live vicariously through you. I'd never even know of these people and places but not for you. And those people and their stories deserve to be known! Not just dry paragraphs in an encyclopedia. Real people there!
Very friendly and trusting people, thank you for the insight!
Hey bald, are you still in TAJIKISTAN because I live in the capital Dushanbe, I’m an American student there and I would love to show you around and I know tajik very well. I have a lot of friends that know the area and the former Soviet history in the different areas of the city we’d be happy to show you around. - like this so he can see this!
What are you doing as an American student in Tajikistan? Just wondering it's an unusual spot for an American!
@@Dareyouhow As US American, I'm curious too but then again there are 330+ million US citizens, third most populated nation behind India and China. So it's likely there are at least a few Americans in every part of the world.
Ikr 😮....interesting @@Dareyouhow
Hi bold here i lost my account but yes i would like that you show me around
@@DareyouhowTajikistan is the most popular place for Americans interested in Iran to do language study because Tajik is a dialect of Farsi
It's great to see Bald back on his own doing what he does best. Keep it going Ben ... !
He’s travelling with backpacker Ben and bens mrs
Benjamin doing his thang
Yeah I got excited but then half way through the vid those two show up 🙄
This was quite a trek! I always love how you interact with the children in the areas where you are. They are so excited to see someone different from their world. I bet they remember it forever. ❤
😃👍
Ben, your videos restore my faith in humanity. How welcoming people are and you focus on the peoples humanity.
Always enjoy your videos.
same here, makes me feel so good..
People in those regions have always been welcoming. Too welcoming i'd say. I like how the last guy explained his country's history. USSR is not how Ben was picturing it and wars came out because of their divisions, just like any other colonizer.
always the tv that tells u different for some reason :)
@@andreasiven21 ironically I work in TV News and I see the worst side of people in the news I cover. Ben’s videos show people kindness to strangers. I’m always glad then I see him with a new upload.
Your videos are always so refreshing to watch. Showing the best of humanity and kindness. Keep up the good work!
Incredible landscape when you stopped at the river border with Afghanistan.
Yeah, the landscape is incredible.
That’s where I worked in 2022 for border patrol on Afghan side
Hi Ben. I was going through a ruff time and this video really lifted my spirits. Thank you and God Bless. 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏💯❤️👍
Ben, you never cease to astound me in your adventures! You've opened up a whole new world of exploration for me! Your travels are awe inspiring and your interactions with locals is so respectful and genuine! I always look forward to your next video! Stay safe!
I met Bald in Samarkand 3 days ago. Now came to Tajikistan and saw his new video just after connecting to free wifi. 😎🇹🇯
Cool !
My dream to meet him
I've also been to Samarkand, also Bukhara and Tashkent. Happy memories and lovely people 🥰
Make a video! The Tajiks in the west want to see more of their homeland
This september Im hoping to make a similiar trip, starting in Almaty KZ and ending in Bukhara UZ. After seeing this video I am also thinking of including Tajikistan along the way too!
Don't dox people
I swear that boy with the tie and the fanta absolutely got me!
This was the funniest interaction ever, the more I watch it the funnier it gets😂😂
Mister Bald you are a living legend all the best vom Zurich, Switzerland and may Chelsea rise again.
Lmaoooo !
Your perspective and description of a certain place are quite refreshing. Brings life to an underwhelming place. Deserves more appreciation absolutely.
One of your finest, thank you for showing us real people in places we may never visit.
My favorite thing about these videos is, even in these small, poor countries most people couldn’t find on the map, is that the people are lovely. They’re friendly, helpful, and happy to see someone exploring their country. They also reinforce that people are largely the same throughout the world: honest, hardworking, and just want a good life for themselves and their families.
This feels like a throw back to the content that made me fall in love with the channel. Brilliant stuff. Thanks for taking us along on your journeys, Ben!
Such a beautiful video. I have never considered this part of the world to travel in. My Mexican wife and I were in awe of the beauty and hospitality and kindness you presented. Thank you for sharing this!:)
Watching from the other side of the Wakhan Corridor. Lahore Pakistan. I must say Tajikistan and especially the Tajiks have surprised me. Ben, this was a great watch!
I know Lahore Pakistan. It is one of the top dirtiest cities in the world
Hello from Colorado, discovered Lahore on google earth a few years back, was amazed at Model Town, wonderful design, very interesting...
@@КамранАли yes it's been in the news for bad reasons but it ain't as bad when you visit in person. The newer parts of the city are spotless.
@@markmark2080 hey mark!. I also spend hours on google earth seeing cities from above. Model town is a nicely designed area. Glad you found it appealing.
This was the best episode yet. Amazing . Editing was great. You don't hide anything. Thanks for bringing me to a place I will never visit, but I feel like I was born there after this.
Love watching how you connect with the local communities. Great video!
Another winner, Ben. Thank you. But I can't understand why anyone would refuse you a visa! You never put any country down. You show the truth without condemning, but always You show that these nations are full of the most friendly, selfless people in the world. The west could learn an awful lot from the people you meet. Thanks again.
What a beautiful day watching my favorite vloger back to Soviet Soviet Soviet and Sovietness! Nice Hearing you again speaking Russian
Ben-ja-min. You're in your element, my man. I'm so glad to see you next to the mosaic. Love it❤
I hope Ben will once make a book with a collection of all the soviet mosaics he came across and took pictures from during his travels!
Why??
@SECRETORDEROFTHEKNIGHTSTEMPLAR why ask why?
I want you guys to come for a visit to our beautiful and friendly Tajikistan)
We all really pleasant to see you and give warm welcome) 🇹🇯
>Arrive at a random country in the middle of nowhere
>Instantly acquire new friends who share tea and bread
This man's passive charisma buff is fucking crazy.
Yeah he’s a real people person.
And get a ride to where he wants to
Tbf, you can definitely achieve this in a ton of countries even without too much charisma.
Sharing is kind of a big thing in previously communist countries.
@@THICCTHICCTHICC Yeah, this. Can't deny his charisma, but also this is more a culture thing than a personality thing.
It's a credit to the Tajiks not Ben, although he is charismatic
That doctor was the highlight for me. Genuine good spirit.
"Just a few steps away geographically, but a thousand years away culturally." That was just a great line. I love this channel.
Well, both sides of the border (separated by the Panj River) are called Badakhshan and were one state, are same people, speak same language and have same culture. Badakhshan was divided by the British into two parts, the southern part is a province in Afghanistan now and the northern part is an autonomous region in Tajikistan, in which people want independence.
We've had thousands of years of cultural change, but I sometimes ask myself how many of those years were actually "development".
Totally a nonsensical line.
Probably the worst line he has ever said. The only people who would find that a great line is someone who's only source of cultural information is Hollywood movies and mainstream media.
I love everything about his videos, taking us places and seeing people I will never get to visit...so very uplifting..
correct. same here
Mr.Bald, My Hungarian grandmother who grew up in the 50s/60s loves your videos - please keep doing what you do in the post-soviet world.. all the best 👍
Thank you , nice video, mate
I keep checking the date this was posted as it feels like classic Ben from a year or so ago… every minute of this was ‘in-ter-esting’ - loved this - felt like old times - more of these please ❤
Bald Your videos are my favorite I have ever seen They make me truly happy to remember the simple life of the people you seek to meet.
It never ceases to amaze me how Ben can travel to the back of beyond and make it interesting. Plus the fact that the people are so nice and friendly.
Bald made Tajikistan fascinating (and beautiful)In fact Bald makes every place he visits mesmerizing. Best teacher ever had!! And what a joy to see smiling Benbackpacker show up out of nowhere! Haha!
I got so sick of hearing other jealous TH-camrs trash Benjamin. He’s the best by far. His interactions with the locals are always so genuine and interesting and his under-the-breath comments are so funny. So glad to see him back in the former Soviet Union. He loves Russia as much as I do.
You just know that Ben's detractors are sad, pasty faced little individuals who sit in their mum's spare room on a laptop and have nothing better to do. I don't care what Ben may have done as a younger man, We can all make mistakes in our lives. But what I do know is that He feeds my fascination over the old soviet union and is doing more for international diplomacy that most western politicians are doing.
Who was trashing Ben?
Bro this is Tajikistan . . . this is not Russia
@@SalmonVanj thanks but I never said it was Russia. I said it was good to see him back in the old Soviet Union. (Although, technically it was part of the Russian Empire at one time)
будь здоров ✌🏼
@@eightapeach2861 they were in the Soviet Union and not in the Russian Empire. . . and the Tajik people have no relationship with the Russians; they are Iranian peoples, their kindred peoples, brothers Iranians, Afghans. . . they are part of Iran Afghanistan the world is full of famous Tajiks such as al Khorezmi ibn Sina the father of medicine and algebra
35:00 Killer insect! Scared the life out of me! Seriously, I’m binge watching some of your old videos and seeing the warmth of the locals in the places you visit is so touching. I’m sure that’s something in your personality that brings out the good in people, Mr Bald. So thanks for that!
It’s wonderful to see you so excited. It’s very evident you really miss the former Soviet Republics. Safe and happy travels friend.
Bloody hell, what an amazing place! That was right up there mate. Thank you for sharing this with us.