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I know Kazakhstan is currently promoting their country because of the negative view that comedian Borat is portraying the country as. I remember being given some advice way back when about sightseeing and enjoying the in country time while we were adopting. I hope you’ll find some of the suggestions available during your stay.
During Max’s adoption we did not explore as much – but during Logan’s adoption I would strap him on and roam for hours. Heck, it helped me take off ten pounds – it was great. A HUGE difference between our first adoption and our second was we were given a cell phone – which made me feel much better about exploring – in case I became lost – I knew I was just a phone call away from a coordinator. But for the record – I always managed to find my way back.
Almaty really has a lot to offer in the way of culture. There are several museums that you should try to get to in addition to some parks and other sights. Please ask adoptive parents from your region about sights to see in the city you’ll be adopting from.
Stop in and see the following if your time allows:
The Central State Museum: The museum is across the street from the former presidential residence. This is a world class museum and has displays depicting Kazak culture back to the beginning of recorded time. They have just started putting English on the displays but you will at least see the culture and history. The Yurt (nomad’s tent) in the entry hall is spectacular and don’t miss the Sak Warrior (the Gold Man). There is also a jewelry museum inside (additional price, but worth it). Also located in the museum are several gift shops.
State Museum of Art: Near the Rachat Plaza Hotel (Hyatt) and it is across the street. This museum displays mostly Kazak works, old and modern.
Panfilov Park: The park houses several sights worth seeing. First, the Glory Memorial at the east entrance to the park. Here you will see several massive monuments commemorating the role of Kazakhstani soldiers in the Great Patriotic War (WWII to us). The eternal flame is also located here. Second, the Museum of Musical Instruments houses a fine collection of traditional Kazak instruments. The building itself is one of the oldest buildings in Almaty and one of two undamaged by the earthquake that leveled Almaty at the turn of the century. There is not a nail in the structure, only wooden pegs. The third important sight in the park is the other building left standing after the earthquake. The Ascension Orthodox Cathedral in the center of the park is not only a beautiful example of Russian Orthodox Architecture, but is actually in use today. If you go to the park on a weekend you will see many wedding parties throughout the park either waiting their turn to get into the church or departing.
Medeo: This is a car trip up into the mountains but if you are adventurous it is worth the trip to see the outdoor ice arena (shown during the last Winter Olympics) and the dry dam further up the road. I would not recommend taking the stairs up the face of the dam with your baby. It is quite a hike and there is a road that will get you to the top much easier.
