How to Find Cheap Hotels in Astana, Kazakhstan. Astana became the new capital of Kazakhstan in 1998 and has become central for government organizations, diplomatic addresses and hundreds of joint venture companies. Now known for Sacha Cohen's alter ego, Borat, Astana was once deemed the merchant gathering place for those from Russia and Central Asian countries. Now, the country opens its arms to tourists and businesses to help spur its growth and development.
Pack warm, heavy clothes because Astana, Kazakhstan is freezing with long, snowy winters. This country is considered one of the coldest in the world.
Explore the culture of Astana, which has ballet, opera, drama and many museums along with more popular entertainment, including bowling, slot machines, movies and an indoor waterpark.
Bring a Russian phrase book because not many people speak English.
Traverse the state park of Althyn-Emel and see amazing rock paintings that boldly illustrate the country's past.
Leave your fear of heights at home and travel to the top of Bayterek Tower to see the entire city of Astana. This massive sphere represents the tree of life and symbolizes the city's growth and development.
To book accommodations, contact The Kazakhstan Tourist Association at 011 (+7) 3272 727 024 or visit their Web site (see Resources, below).
Opt for a more expensive hotel ($150 to $200 per night) and get a room comparable to the kind found at most fine European hotels. Or, aim even higher with a five-star hotel, where rooms go for as much as $400 per night.
Get out of the city. For a more relaxed environment, stay at a cheap guest house near Kolsai Lakes. Located in the Kazakhstan mountains, it's a great place to enjoy fishing, swimming, skiing and skating.
Call a Kazakhstan travel agent for cheap accommodations. In general, only the nicest Astana hotels maintain Web sites and offer online booking services.
Look for last minute deals. Check with brokers near the railway station about cheap accommodations, such as rooms for rent. It helps to know Russian when working with these brokers.
Hone your skiing skills in Borovoye, known as "Little Switzerland," for its lakes and great skiing. Stay in a cheap inn or splurge on a room in a high-end ski resort.
Fly into Astana International Airport from other local airline services or from European carriers.
Use the public trolleys, trams and minibuses to get around the city. They're not very reliable and pretty crowded, but they're cheap.
Catch a taxi. Taxis are everywhere in the city, but they tend to overcharge foreigners. Don't be afraid to haggle.
