Backpacking or traveling in Mongolia?

• Mongolia is a dream destination for adventure travelers and backpackers seeking pristine nature, ancient nomadic culture and epic landscapes. It is a country that offers peace and quiet, but also challenges in the form of rugged travel and limited infrastructure. A true back to nature, back to basics experience!
• Activity spotting: meet the nomadic shepherds of the Gobi Desert; hike and spot snow leopards in the Altaj Mountains; ride horses the traditional way across the endless grasslands; spend the night in a ger and experience nomadic life; attend one of the traditional festivals; camp under the stars and bathe in ice-cold rivers; take a multi-day trek; taste the local food and meet the lovely people. 
• Animal spotting: snow leopard, Mongolian wild donkey, Bactrian camel, Przewalski horse, golden eagle, bearded vulture, Siberian ibex, Gobi bear, Saiga antelope, wolves, Argali sheep, marmots, there are many unique wild animals!
• Food spotting: not the best country for vega(n)'s because a lot of meat and dairy is eaten mainly due to the climate and cattle breeding. Think of dishes like buuz (dumplings), khuushuur (pasty), boodog (goat or marmot cooked on hot stones, tsuivan (emergency dish), airag (fermented mare's milk), khorkhog (barbecue), aaruul (dried curds of fermented milk), Mongolian tea (salty tea!). 

Studying in Mongolia?

• There are several educational institutions in Mongolia, with the quality of education varying by institution. In urban areas, education is generally better than in rural areas. There Is choice of many studies, with popular studies including engineering, medicine, economics, ecology, agriculture, international relations, mining and geology. You can also take unique short courses in fieldwork and conservation.  
• Study cities: Ulaanbaatar, Erdenet and Darkhan. 
• Language: Mongolian, but programs in English are also available.

Internship in Mongolia?

• If you are able to speak English and are not able to speak Mongolian, you are most likely to get an internship with an NGO, for example, in the field of nature protection or human rights, international diplomatic organizations or in the mining industry. Internships are also possible in the tourism sector. 
• Competencies: intercultural communication, independence, problem-solving skills, adaptability, ecological and environmental knowledge, improvisation.  

Doing volunteer work in Mongolia?

• There are numerous volunteer opportunities, especially in the areas of conservation, community development and education. For example, you can support remote schools, teach English, help with construction projects or women's empowerment projects. You can also help nomadic communities take care of their animals, or help with ecotourism, for example. 

Working in Mongolia?

• Mongolia's economy is growing and international trade has increased in recent years. The economy relies mainly on industry, rural economy and trade relations with China. Minerals are also abundant. 
• For foreigners, there are certainly jobs in Mongolia. The most in-demand are jobs as teachers, managers, in mining, engineers, translators, geologists, doctors and programmers.
• Work culture: hierarchical, top-down with great importance placed on loyalty and honor. Personal relationships play an important role, both within the team and with business partners. Long hours are often worked and people are very dedicated to work. 

Working as a digital nomad in Mongolia?

• The land of nomads, but never mind that digital! Mongolia offers a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience with hefty challenges as well. It is a beautiful country where you can explore a lot of nature, feel the ultimate freedom and find peace. In urban areas, the Internet is also quite reliable, but outside the cities this quickly decreases. There are a few co-working places here and there in Ulaanbaatar and life is affordable. 
• As a digital nomad, you have the opportunity to take impressive road trips or horseback rides through the countryside during your stay. You can also enjoy the warm welcome and hospitality of locals and experience unique cultural experiences. 
• Favorite locations: Ulaanbaatar. 

Living in Mongolia?

• Most expats come to Mongolia because they want to immerse themselves in the culture or are fascinated by the landscape (or both, of course)! There are two types of places to live as expats; the steppe or the city. Most expats live in Ulaanbaatar, unless they really come for the nomadic life. 
• There are several international schools and universities in Ulaanbaatar. It is also a generally safe country. So expats with children can do well here. 
• Life is affordable, especially compared to Western countries. 
• Climate: hot summers and very cold winters.... 
• Language: learn some Mongolian! Some people speak English, but especially outside the city by no means everyone. 
• Health insurance: it is advisable to have a good, all coverage health insurance. This is because care is limited and for specific treatments you have to travel abroad. So make sure you arrange it well.

Stories, tips and experiences from Mongolia