Kazakhstan

Here's a travel guide to Kazakhstan: Visa & Transportation - Visa: Chinese citizens can enjoy a 30-day visa-free policy. You can also apply for an e-visa based on your needs, for single or multiple entries within 90 days, with a visa fee of approximately USD 20–80. - Transportation: From China, you can fly directly to Astana or Almaty. For domestic transportation, major cities like Astana and Almaty have subways. Between cities, you can choose planes, trains, or long-distance buses. Recommended Attractions - Astana: The Bayterek Tower, a landmark building standing 105 meters tall; the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center, shaped like a tent; and the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, one of the city's iconic buildings. - Almaty: Charyn Canyon, a spectacular sight known as the "Grand Canyon of Central Asia"; the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan, showcasing a rich collection of historical relics and artworks. - Other Regions: Turkestan, located in southern Kazakhstan, is home to the 14th-century Khoja Ahmed Yasawi Mausoleum, a building with a unique architectural style; the Baikonur Cosmodrome, one of the world's largest space launch sites, where you can watch rocket launches. Food Recommendations - Main Courses: Kuyrdak, made with stir-fried lamb, horse meat, potatoes, and onions; Beshbarmak, hand-pulled meat served with noodles, a traditional Kazakh dish. - Snacks: Samsa, baked buns usually filled with mutton and onions; Kurt, a type of dried cheese curd that can be eaten directly or added to milk tea. - Drinks: Kumis, a traditional fermented mare's milk drink, rich in nutrients and slightly sour; and Shubat, a fermented drink made from carrots, apples, and other ingredients. Accommodation Recommendations - Astana: Offers luxury hotels like the Ritz-Carlton Astana, as well as budget-friendly options like Ibis Styles Astana. - Almaty: The Ritz-Carlton, Almaty, and other hotels provide high-quality service. There are also many homestays in the city, such as those near the Zelyony Bazaar, which are convenient for shopping and transportation. Things to Note - Climate: Kazakhstan has a diverse climate with cold winters and hot summers, and large temperature differences between day and night. Remember to bring warm clothes and sunscreen. - Customs: Islam is the main religion in Kazakhstan. Respect local religious customs, such as dressing appropriately when entering mosques. - Language: The main languages are Kazakh and Russian. English is spoken to some extent in major cities. Download a translation app in advance.