Day 2,3 – Glamping trip to Kolsai, Kaindy and Charyn

Even in a simple trip, there are some complexities. I wanted to get done with them earlier and then relax in Almaty. Three of the most recommended destinations were a bit of a drive away and in the same direction. It was strongly recommended that we make it into an overnight trip, and we did. A friend with a local contact got in touch with … Continue reading Day 2,3 – Glamping trip to Kolsai, Kaindy and Charyn

Kazakhstan – A planners delight!

I had planned and even booked trips to Kazakhstan a few times before. Those trips never happened for many different reasons – visa was a pain in the a**, flights got canceled due to Pakistan airspace closure, etc. This time the stars aligned a lot better. The flights are operating normally and new flights are starting on the route. The complicated visa process has been … Continue reading Kazakhstan – A planners delight!

Vang Vieng – The Reformed Tourist Destination

About a decade ago this small town was the hub of sinful travel in SE Asia. It was a drug-heaven, a center for flesh trade, and a place for wealthy backpackers to enjoy various gifts of nature. A swift government action took away all the crime and what was left was a lot of tourist infrastructure and the beautiful nature. Soon Vang Vieng found a … Continue reading Vang Vieng – The Reformed Tourist Destination