Off the Beaten Path (2015) : 8x18

Astana has been the modern capital of Kazakhstan since 1997. Once a stop along the ancient Silk Road, the city was founded in the 19th century and has changed its name several times over the years. Located on the Ishim River in the vast steppes of central Kazakhstan, it is the second coldest capital city in the world. Despite its harsh climate and difficult past, including periods of famine during Soviet times, Astana has seen rapid growth since the late 1990s, with new districts, parks, and striking modern architecture. Today, the city is home to over one million people. Among them is Beátka from Slovakia, who lives here with her husband as part of the Slovak diplomatic mission. After three years, she has fully embraced life in this unique city.