Exploring Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan: Culture, Oil Wealth, and Machismo

The chapter delves into the cultural richness of Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, discussing aspects like the Kazakh affinity for horse meat, macho attitudes prevalent in sports like boxing, and the impact of oil wealth on cities. It contrasts the modern development in Almaty with traditional areas outside the city and the extravagant monuments in Astana symbolizing oil money. The chapter also explores the uniqueness of Kyrgyzstan, highlighting its mountainous terrain, deep history, and cultural observations about Muslim practices in Central Asia.