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I flew down to Shymkent today on a work trip and had the chance to breathe southern air -- and it smells sweet! Indeed, I feel as if I were in a somewhat different country that is almost the same. I guess after traveling 1,600 kilometers (1000 miles), you should feel as if you went someplace new.
First impressions? The air seems more humid. More people speak Kazakh on the streets and hotel than in Astana (although they understand and speak Russian). The stereotypical chaotic driving seems to hold somewhat true for those bearing an "x" at the front of their license denoting residence in Shymkent. Structures seem older and less winterized. Time seems to be a more fluid concept with meetings taking place "when we arrive," no matter what the schedule indicates. It's nice down here - take a look for yourself!
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