Almaty among top 10 cities to visit in 2014
ALMATY. January 6. KAZINFORM The Rough Guide, an ultimate guide for travelers around the world, has revealed its list of top 10 cities to visit in 2014. Almaty, Kazakhstan secured the 7th spot of the list.
The Rouge Guide notes that Almaty is one of the most attractive cities in Kazakhstan, although it is no longer the capital. Tourists are attracted by its geographical location along the old Silk Road and mountains all around. According to the guide, all Borat-style stereotypes disintegrate completely after visiting Almaty. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil topped the list ousting Sarajevo (Bosnia and Herzegovina) and Liverpool (England). Umeå (Sweden), Lviv (Ukraine) and Marseille (France) took the 4th, the 5th and the 6th spots respectively. Rotterdam (Netherlands), Glasgow (Scotland) and Portland (U.S.) wrapped up the list of 2014 top destinations. Almaty authorities say the tourism boom in the city is due to construction of the Kok Zhailau ski resort. Last week President Nursultan Nazarbayev was familiarized with the development concept of the resort during his visit to Almaty. The Head of State underscored the tourism industry is of paramount importance for the Almaty region and Kazakhstan on the whole.