Today, Kazakhstan is increasingly becoming a crossroads of cultures and new meanings. If in the past the country was perceived by foreigners mainly as a place for temporary work or business missions, today more and more people come here with a personal motivation — in search of inspiration, self-discovery, and genuine stories. Kazakhstan attracts with its openness, natural diversity, human warmth, and rich cultural fabric where the past and the present are intertwined in a remarkable way.

One of these people is Mark François, a guest from the United States who decided to settle in Kokshetau. For him, the move was not just a work assignment but an opportunity to experience another world — to understand the mentality and spirit of the Kazakh people from the inside. Mark strives to tell the story of the country without clichés — to show Kazakhstan through the eyes of someone who observes it with curiosity and respect. In his interview with Qazaq Culture, he shared his first impressions, experiences, and discoveries that changed his view of life.

— Mark, where are you from, and why did you choose Kazakhstan — and specifically, Kokshetau?

— I’m from the United States. I came to Kazakhstan for work — my organization assigned me here. But the desire to live here came from me personally. I wanted to see Kazakhstan not from afar but from within: through conversations, traditions, and daily habits. It’s a country that isn’t often talked about in the world, yet it holds incredible depth.

I didn’t just want to live here — I wanted to understand how people live, what they believe in, how they think. I read about Kazakh history, try to speak Kazakh, and listen to local music. Every day here feels like a new chapter in a vast cultural book.

— What was your main motivation — work, curiosity, or something else?

— Definitely the culture. Many Americans know almost nothing about Kazakhstan, and I wanted to change that — at least for myself. I’m fascinated by how Asia and Europe, nomadic roots and modern rhythm, all coexist in one country.

I’m not just observing — I try to be part of it. I attend concerts, exhibitions, national holidays, and read about nomadic life. I’m curious to understand how traditions shape the national character and why unity, respect, and hospitality are valued so deeply here.

Curiosity also played a big role. In the U.S., Kazakhstan is rarely mentioned — it’s as if it exists outside the global narrative. I wanted to discover this country with its rich history and culture for myself and share my experiences with others. Through my blog, I want to show the real Kazakhstan — warm, hospitable, and multifaceted.

— What was your first impression of Kokshetau? What surprised or inspired you?

— My first “meeting” with the city was through Google, and to be honest, it didn’t look very impressive. But when I arrived, I was pleasantly surprised! Kokshetau turned out to be bigger, livelier, and more beautiful than I expected. The nature amazed me — the clean air, the open spaces, and especially the lake, around which it feels like even silence breathes. There’s a sense of harmony between humans and nature here — a calmness you rarely find in large cities.

— For many foreigners, the first days in a new country can be a time of adaptation. What seemed most unusual or challenging for you at first?

— Honestly, there weren’t many difficulties. I knew there would be linguistic and cultural differences, so I tried to prepare. I didn’t just want to “arrive and adapt” — I wanted to enter the local culture respectfully, to observe, listen, and learn.

Of course, there are small things — unfamiliar habits or expressions that surprise you at first. But I saw them as adventures and lessons. For me, it was important not just to “fit in” but to understand. I started learning the language, reading about traditions, and following local customs of respect. For example, standing up when elders enter a room or bringing a gift when visiting someone’s home. These gestures may seem small, but they reflect the deep respect at the heart of Kazakh culture.

— How did your perception of Kazakhstan change after living here compared to what you’d seen in videos or read online?

— It turned out to be completely different. People here are much more hospitable than I expected — sincere, open, and always ready to help, even if they don’t speak English. I feel it everywhere — in conversations, at the market, in cafés, just walking down the street. This friendliness creates a special atmosphere of comfort that’s often missing in big Western cities.

For example, Kazakh hospitality is something passed down from generation to generation. Once in Korea, I met a Kazakh woman, and when I later came to Almaty, she invited me and my friends for a Kazakh dinner. It was funny because she could have easily forgotten me! But we met again — and this tradition of inviting guests and laying out a generous dastarkhan, even for someone you barely know, is amazing. It’s something worth learning from.

— Is there a particular tradition that stood out to you?

— Yes! Once, at a school ceremony, people suddenly started throwing chocolate candies at me! I was completely shocked (laughs). At first, I had no idea what was happening, but then they explained that it’s a tradition — a good omen, a symbol of joy and well-being. And the best part — you get to keep the candy! That made me so happy.

That moment wasn’t just funny — it was meaningful. Even the festive customs here are filled with warmth and generosity. People in Kazakhstan truly know how to celebrate together and share positive emotions.

— Surely there were challenges too. What was hardest to accept or understand?

— Horse meat! (laughs) It’s hard for me to eat horse the same way I eat beef. In my culture, a horse symbolizes strength and freedom, not something on the menu. So my first encounter with kazy was a real challenge (smiles). But I’ll admit, it’s rich and unique in flavor — just… in small portions, please! (laughs)

But I respect that it’s part of the national cuisine and history. Through food, I better understand how deeply traditions are connected with lifestyle, nature, and national identity.

In fact, food here is a story of its own! It’s truly delicious and hearty. Especially the shashlyk — I never imagined such a simple dish could be so aromatic and varied. In Kazakhstan, a meal is always more than food — it’s a way of communicating, showing respect, and building friendship.

— What inspires you most in Kazakh culture?

— Multilingualism and openness. I’m impressed by how easily people switch between Kazakh, Russian, and English. It’s not just convenient — it shows intellectual flexibility.

And also — deep respect for one’s roots. People honor their elders, remember their ancestors, and pass traditions to their children. This creates a strong bond between generations that’s often missing in Western countries.

I also noticed how national dishes are served — with great respect. It’s not just food; it’s a ritual of connection. Around the table, people share not only dishes but warmth and mutual respect. In Kazakhstan, food brings people together — even strangers become closer.

— What do you see as the main differences between Kazakh and American culture?

— Many people here speak multiple languages. In the U.S., most people know only one.

— What would you recommend tourists try when they first come to Kazakhstan?

— All your drinks! You have an incredible variety of non-alcoholic beverages — it’s amazing! Shubat, kumys — all so authentic and delicious!

— Since you love traveling, what cities or natural places have you visited so far?

— I’ve been to Almaty — saw the Big Almaty Lake, Charyn Canyon, and Lake Kaindy. It’s breathtakingly beautiful! I’ve also been to Astana, the capital, and was amazed by its infrastructure and architecture.

— What impressed you the most?

— The Big Almaty Lake — absolutely stunning. The scenery is breathtaking: mountains reflected in turquoise water, the fresh air, the feeling of peace and grandeur in nature. Standing there, I truly felt the scale of Kazakhstan — its power, beauty, and inner harmony. It’s not just a tourist spot — it’s a place where time slows down and space opens up for reflection.

— How would you describe Kazakhstan’s nature to someone who’s never been here?

— Vast, free, and captivating. You can find every type of landscape here. It’s definitely a place worth coming back to!

— Do you plan to continue traveling around the country?

— Absolutely! I want to visit western Kazakhstan — to see the Caspian Sea.

— Living abroad has clearly become more than just an adventure for you — it’s a step toward inner freedom. How has this move changed you personally?

— At first, I was scared. Everything new — the language, people, culture — made me anxious. But once I arrived, I realized I could handle it all. This experience showed me that the world is much kinder and broader than we often think. I’m no longer afraid of change or of letting go of the familiar. Kazakhstan taught me to be brave, to trust life, and to step out of my comfort zone. Sometimes, being far from home helps you truly understand who you are and what you want.

— What have you learned from Kazakh people?

— Patience and the art of slowing down. I’ve learned that being a few minutes late isn’t a tragedy (smiles).

— What helps you feel at home while living far away?

— Watching videos of my hometown on YouTube and talking to my family and friends.

— If you could describe Kazakhstan in one word, what would it be — and why?

— Hospitality. Because it’s everywhere — in the smiles, in the gestures, in the way people treat each other. And it’s absolutely captivating.