Kazakhstan

[Solid]

Hello everyone,
It's a shame (for me) that it's been such a long time since I've been around here. I'm sure you've all enjoyed that I've been so busy with other things

Some time this summer, I will most likely be making a trip to Kazakhstan. I was wondering if anyone had experience of the region or similar regions? I would really appreciate being able to discuss the subject to determine whether there was any extra important information not presented in my general briefing.

Thank you very much for your time,

Solid

[Gypsy]

Welcome back Solid, have a safe trip.

[pulque]

Originally Posted by Solid

Some time this summer, I will most likely be making a trip to Kazakhstan. I was wondering if anyone had experience of the region or similar regions? I would really appreciate being able to discuss the subject to determine whether there was any extra important information not presented in my general briefing.

What aspect of the subject are you interested in?

ps welcome back

[Solid]

I've noticed a lack of real security-based information in the briefing, which either indicates that we don't know or that it's all safe out there. Pessimism is realism is staying alive, so I figure I'd better double check to make sure it's safe. Also, culture: any western customs which might enrage locals?

I apologise for the generality of these questions, the CONOPS for the trip is still very much up in the air so specificity is difficult.

Futher, if you have anything not in those two categories which sticks out in your mind, I'd appreciate hearing it even if it was covered in the briefing.

Thank you!

Solid

[pulque]

Culture and safety.. I have found http://www.registan.net to be timely regarding central asia. (you may have missed the original recommendation by resident nitpicker Airbornelawyer)

what is a CONOP?

I might also recommend Ahmed Rashid's book Jihad: The Rise of Militant Islam in Central Asia. It is not quite current, but it has the background and history to understand the economic/political situation, and the impact of groups like IMU and HT in the region.

I am interested to hear first hand accounts as well

[Ambush Master]

Try checking this out. They seem to usually have somewhat of an idea about what is happening !!

http://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/...k/geos/kz.html


You can find almost any geographical region on this site.

Later
Martin

[scubasam]

The people in that area in general are nothing to worry about, and I would not be suprised if in your entire time there nothing suspicous happens. The thing to look out for is "extremists", usually from farther south, doing their own thing. Also, just look at the history of things, all the police in that area of the world are former KGB. So, just take that into acount. (they like to know whats going on in there countries) All very controlled societies.


Oh... and just as important... the women are HOT!! Something to do with the Mongol/Russian/MidEast blood. You'll see why Alexander the Great chose his first wife from that area (or a little farther SE in Uzbekistan).

Anyways, enjoy your time there!!

[Huey14]

Don't be the obnoxious, loud American.