The trip started on Saturday, July 4th, 2009 at Helsinki-Vantaa airport. No problems with (excess) luggage or lack of visas to Russia or Kyrgyztan. One doesn't need visa for Russia if stopping over for less than 24h and not leaving the airport. Kyrgyz visa can be bought upon arrival at Bishkek. Special thanks to Tuomas Sovijarvi for hospitality and last minute gear upgrades!
Flights Helsinki-Bishkek-Helsinki with Aeroflot for 700 euros. Flexible return date, currently July 30th. Writing this update after a night well spent in the airport at the Diners Club lounge. Good thing that I packed my sleeping bag with cabin luggage.
