Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan is the largest of the states in what used to be known as the Soviet Union. Kazakhstan, a democracy, is one of the the most porsperous countries in Central Asia, which is mainly due to the natural gas and oil in the region. If you are planning a trip to this amazing landlocked country, then there are a few important things that you need to know before you embark on your journey.
Getting in and around Kazakhstan
Depending on where in the world you are from, there are different rules and regulations regarding visas and entry into the country. It is advisable that you contact the minister of foreign affairs to obtain the relevant information. You can either choose to fly in, travel by car or arrive by boat. Once in Kazakhstan, you can make use of the bus and train services.
Eating and accommodation
Getting served a dish that consists of some form of horse meat is not uncommon in this country. There are many restaurants to choose from, unless you are vegetarian, then you need to cook your own food. The prices of food and drinks are relatively cheap here.
Where you choose to lay your head down will depend on your budget. You can find hotel room from as little as 10 Euro per night. There are not many camping sites to choose from, but you can basically pitch a tent almost anywhere that is not inhabited.
Uzbekistan
This landlocked country has a fascinating history to discover. Uzbekistan became independent in 1991 after the breaking up of the Soviet Union. The weather is mainly hot here, due to the dessert. This country has a strong Islamic influence and this is very evident in the importance that the people of this country place on religious holidays.
Getting in and Around Uzbekistan
Again, the visa that you need to apply for will depend on where you are currently living. Certain countries are allowed access without a Letter of Invitation (LOI). If you are arriving in Uzbekistan by plane, you need to be prepared to wait about two hours at customs. The number of trains that are available are limited, security problems are common at the borders if you are travelling by car and catching a bus is most likely your best bet.
Eating and Accommodation
The National dish is called Osh (Plov), which is a mutton based type of stew and something that you have to try at least once when visiting here. Uzbeks love their bread and you can pick up a loaf of the local bread on every corner. Tea is a very popular beverage here, beer is consumed as though it is a soft drink and some of the wines produced here have won International awards.
There are many options available where accommodation is concerned. The level of luxury that you are looking for depends on how much you are prepared to pay. A hotel room will cost you anything from US$60 per night. Staying in a Yurt Camp will allow you to experience the region in a very unique way. Most of the time, you will be able to have the rare opportunity of riding a camel here.
Georgia
Georgia is situated at the eastern end of the Black Sea, Armenia and Turkey are on the South side, Russia is on the North and Azerbaijan is on the East side. There is a variety of different religious groups living in Georgia and certain areas are predominantly Muslim.
Getting in and Around Georgia
The first choice for travel to Georgia will almost always be by plane. There are many airlines that service the area on a regular basis. Using the bus service in Georgia is no problem at all and there are regular buses throughout the day to most destinations within Georgia. If you are planning on travelling by car, it is recommended that you find out all the rules and regulations before doing so, or you may run into problems.
Eating and Accommodation
Khinkali is a dish that you have to try while in Georgia. It is a dumpling with a difference and you need a local to show you the “right” way to eat them. Chacha is the local drink that is normally brewed at home – a Grappa type of drink.
There are many types of accommodation to choose from in Georgia, but most people who visit choose to stay in private homes, as this is a much cheaper option.