Consulates
Kyrgyzstan
EU nationals and some others are required to attach one passport size photo and a copy of the passport to the application. You will also be asked to write a letter explaining who you are and what are your reasons for traveling. Normal time required for processing is five days, but they have same day processing available, for a higher fee pick up at 5pm. You can start the application without leaving the passport at the embassy. Update 2012-07-27: For German nationals and probably most EU no visa is required for a stay in Kyrgystan up to 60 days Source: auswaertiges-amt.de.
Unfortunately, these are the only two consulates in Urumqi. For those heading to other destinations in Central Asia, instead of returning to Beijing, a good bet would be to pick up visas for those locations in Almaty, Kazakhstan or Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.
In general Xinjiang is a rather safe place. However, in the bigger bazaars and on public transportation pickpockets do operate so be sure to secure your valuables. Riots in summer 2009 also necessitate extra caution. While there is currently a large police and military presence in the city, protests and other violence have broken out sporadically since then. In the aftermath of the 2009 riots, communications were severely restricted with internet access and all international calls in and out of the region blocked by the government. These restrictions appear to have been lifted June 2010. In any case, calls are able to be placed from the bianjiang binguan è¾¹çå®¾é¦ mentioned above for Â¥5/min and possibly also from post offices é®çµå± for Â¥2-3/min. Keep these restrictions in mind before traveling. Also be prepared to be stopped by security personnel suspicious of foreigners.
respect
In most Islamic cultures, naan bread, is very important. It is not a good idea to throw it away. If you drop it, pick it up and carry it with you. Do not step on naan--It is important to treat it with some respect. Also, if you decide to eat naan while walking, break off a piece, and eat that. Do not bite into the whole loaf.
Before entering a local shop such as an boutique, antique store, etc., it is custom to raise your hands above your head, clasp them together, and bow deeply, keeping your folded hands extended outward. Bowing shows the locals that you acknowledge that you are a guest. Outreaching your hands shows that you want them to lead you. Only visitors are to do this, not local people. As of 2012, no tourists in XinJiang Province perform this practice and no shop-keeper or host would ever expect you to.