Almaty might not be the capital, but don’t let that fool you. It’s Kazakhstan’s biggest and most vibrant city, and locals will tell you it’s an absolute must. It’s a cultural crossroads where people from all over Central Asia, Russia, and beyond come together, creating a rich, cultural mix. Think: temples beside mosques, mountains framing every view, and a bit of unpredictable traffic. But the real highlight? The warm-hearted locals, for whom hospitality isn’t just tradition.