Cross Border Charm Discover Central Asia: Almaty & Bishkek

About the destination: Almaty is the largest city in Kazakhstan. Almaty is the major commercial and cultural centre of Kazakhstan. The city is located in the mountainous area of southern Kazakhstan. An aerial tramway line connects downtown Almaty with a popular recreation area at the top of Kök Töbe, a mountain just to the southeast. According to the city's Department of Natural Resources and Resource Use Management, as of 2007 the city has 125 fountains. Among them is the "Oriental Calendar" Fountain, whose 12 sculptural figures represent the 12 animals of the Kazakh 12-year animal cycle.

About the destination: Bishkek is both the capital and the largest city of Kyrgyzstan. Bishkek has beautiful picturesque landscapes, and magnificent mountains and lakes in a virgin nature. The territory of Kyrgyzstan is almost entirely mountainous, making it a perfect destination for many different kinds of trekking. Kyrgyzstan's mountains also boast many natural hot springs, and Lake Issyk-Kul, the second largest alpine lake in the world (after Lake Titicaca) offers many beautiful beaches for relaxing and swimming during the summer. The square of the center city of Bishkek is decorated with fountains; there is also a stage where mass concerts and dances are held. It is also a common place for military parades, demonstrations, celebrations and festivals.

About the destination: Almaty is the largest city in Kazakhstan. Almaty is the major commercial and cultural centre of Kazakhstan. The city is located in the mountainous area of southern Kazakhstan. An aerial tramway line connects downtown Almaty with a popular recreation area at the top of Kök Töbe, a mountain just to the southeast. According to the city's Department of Natural Resources and Resource Use Management, as of 2007 the city has 125 fountains. Among them is the "Oriental Calendar" Fountain, whose 12 sculptural figures represent the 12 animals of the Kazakh 12-year animal cycle.