Review

In a good position for the new financial district, the four-star Astana International is popular with businessmen and tourists alike.

Currently undergoing reconstruction in parts, this ex-Soviet hotel is slowly becoming more and more attractive. Rooms have a view of the mountains or the steppe and some have balconies (make sure to ask if you want one). All standard rooms come with a shower, tea and coffee facilities (a nice touch) and have paid WiFi access.

Run by the same Turkish management company as the Ambassador Hotel in Central Almaty, the service is friendly and     efficient. Located just over the road from the Indian restaurant Namaste and not far from John’s Coffee and nightclub Crystal, you barely have to leave the hotel to have a good time. Oh, and the Hotel Astana offers a free transfer to the hotel from the airport.