When it comes to traveling, my parents instilled in me a valuable lesson: always explore a place on foot. I firmly believe there’s something special about being on my feet and taking in the sights and sounds around me. Even if it seems obvious, it’s important to remember that simple observation is a powerful tool for gaining insights into a new place. Whether people-watching from a park bench or strolling through unfamiliar neighborhoods, I’ve had remarkable experiences and encounters by embracing this philosophy. So, let’s take a walk down memory lane as I reflect on the small joys and moments I’ve captured during my time in Almaty, Kazakhstan.
Let’s begin with my first steps outside of my family’s apartment and onto the bustling streets of Almaty. As I strolled towards a nearby park, I couldn’t resist taking in everything around me. From the students in their pale trench coats to the intriguing бабушка selling her mysterious food, I found myself captivated by the vibrant and diverse community. Despite my exhaustion from 24 hours of travel the day before, the energy of Almaty was contagious. As I settled on a bench in the park, I observed the locals going about their day with a sense of purpose and calmness. Although smiles may not be as common here as back home, the contentment and joy in their everyday routines were palpable. This simple act of observing people allowed me to connect with the city and its people on a deeper level.
While walking around Almaty, I couldn’t help but notice the abundance of birds that call the city home. Despite all the new foreign things in Almaty, it was the little birds that struck me as different. In particular, I remember seeing small black and white birds on my very first day. These birds, I later learned all called myna (майна). They were flitting around the trees, chirping and singing their sweet melodies. It also marked a time when my situation began to sink in. I am in a place where these interesting and slightly alien birds are completely normal – definitely not in Kansas anymore.
Another bird that caught my attention was the pigeon, or “rock dove” as it is translated from Russian. Unlike in other cities like NYC where pigeons are often seen as pests, the attitude towards them in Almaty is much different. In their language, locals make no distinction between the romantic dove and the pigeon, as they simply enjoy the company of them all. I often see groups of people gathered around in the park, tossing dried corn to the pigeons and enjoying their company. I even had the memorable opportunity to participate in this tradition, pictured below. Nowhere in the world is it more fun to make new pigeon friends. It’s all a heartwarming sight and a reminder of the simple joys in life.
The birds of Almaty have added an unexpected and delightful element to my experience of living here. They serve as a reminder to slow down and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us, even in the midst of a busy city.
During my time living and studying in Almaty, I had the opportunity to explore many different types of neighborhoods throughout the city. However, one experience that really stands out to me was the time I spent walking around an old neighborhood of single-story houses. As I wandered the streets, I observed how the houses were simple, yet full of so much character. At one point, our guide pointed out a part of the roof which was literally taken from another building we had seen earlier. I was struck by how different they were from the modern high-rise buildings or mid-sized apartment buildings that dominate much of the city. By simply walking around this area, I was able to expand my perspective on Almaty dramatically. It made me realize how diverse and multi-faceted the city really is, and how important it is to take the time to explore all of its different corners and neighborhoods. As I was admiring the architecture, I saw a group of kids driving around in a small electronic car, hysterically laughing and trying to get our attention. It was a charming scene that reminded me that no matter where we are in the world, the joy of childhood is universal.
While exploring the city on foot, I discovered another form of observation that was new to me during my time in Almaty: studying relevant texts about the city. In our class, we’ve recently been discussing how to combine readings with our observations. This has opened me up to a deeper understanding of the city’s cultural significance and how it has evolved over time as I walk through this city. If you’re planning a trip to a new place, I highly recommend taking the time to read up on its history and culture before you go; I will continue integrating this into my observations in my future travels.
By embracing the simple act of walking, I have discovered a whole new side of Almaty that I would never have experienced otherwise. The city’s diverse neighborhoods, its charming birdlife, and the unexpected encounters with locals have all left lasting impressions on me. Through my observations and walks, which were deepened by relevant literature, I have gained a deeper appreciation for the culture and history of this fascinating place. While it’s easy to get caught up in the rush of my classes, and trying to see everything, taking the time to walk and observe has allowed me to immerse myself in Almaty’s unique energy and character truly. So, whether it’s exploring old neighborhoods, watching the birds, or simply taking a stroll through a park, I encourage everyone to slow down and embrace the joys of walking and observation in this city, or any others.
-Charlie Ney
