Kazakhstan: Teagan Benson (Five Senses in Almaty)

Sights – There is a lot to see walking around Almaty. I first noticed how strikingly green the city is compared to cities in the United States. Trees and flower beds line the streets, and one is always within walking distance of a park. The snowcapped mountains to the south provide an awe-inspiring sight from anywhere in Almaty and serve as a helpful tool for navigation. The soviet style architecture of many residential, institutional, and business buildings stands in contrast with the new, modern high rises and shopping centers. They are a reminder of the city’s compelling history and an indication of the changing times and economic growth of Kazakhstan.

Smell – Since arriving in Almaty, I have noticed many new smells. I most enjoy the smell of the excellent food being prepared. The climate is very similar to that in Madison and the temperature is already turning cold and so I’ve been able to enjoy the familiar autumnal smell of crisp leaves. Unfortunately, since Almaty is set in the basin of the mountains, there is little wind and most air settles in the valley creating an environment conducive to air pollution. Air pollution is not a pleasant smell, though the city is taking serious measures to promote a clean and healthy environment.

Sound – Almaty is a city of 1.7 million people; thus, the typical sounds of traffic and construction are common. I am most excited to be surrounded by Russian speaking individuals all the time. At the university we learn and speak in Russian 7 hours a day. Outside of classes I hear many different languages being spoken. As previously stated, Almaty is a diverse city and it is not uncommon to hear Russian, Kazakh, English, Uzbek, or Chinese being spoken on the street. Most street signs and announcements on the metro are in both Kazakh, Russian, and English. Almaty is accommodating to people of all languages and backgrounds.

Feel – Physically, my tongue feels burned from drinking so much scorching hot tea as one does in Kazakhstan. On the other hand, mentally, I feel at home with my host family and content in this welcoming city. The locals are helpful and accepting of my Russian abilities and are curious about where I am from. My sense is that Kazakhs experience less stress than Americans which helps me feel comfortable and at peace in my new home.

Taste – Luckily Almaty is a city of many delicious and diverse dishes. Central Asian, Kazakh, and Russian cuisines are the most prevalent. My favorite dish, Samsa, is a pastry filled with meat and vegetables. Bread is a culturally important food in Kazakhstan and is served with every meal. Thus, there are many creative variations of pastries filled with cheese, potatoes, sauerkraut, or apples. I was fortunate to have recently tried Kazakhstan’s national dish – Beshbarmak. Beshbarmak consists of noodles topped with horse meat and onions and is very delicious. It is traditional for a family to eat Beshbarmak with their hands from one large, shared plate and is typically prepared for large family gatherings.

Teagan Benson

Hometown: Cumberland, Wisconsin

Major: Russian Language & Civilization

Program: AC Russian Overseas Flagship Capstone Program

I chose to study on the intensive capstone program to improve my Russian language skills and cross-cultural competence. I hope to reach superior proficiency upon completion of the capstone. This opportunity will provide real-life context to my studies and greatly enhance my education.