🌍 Overview
As a digital nomad who has had the privilege of calling Astana, Kazakhstan, home for a while, I can attest to the city’s unique blend of traditional and modern charm. Astana, the capital city of Kazakhstan, is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be uncovered by intrepid remote workers. With its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking natural landscapes, Astana is an underrated gem that is slowly gaining popularity among digital nomads. The city’s nomad score of 67/100 and safety index of 6678/100 make it an attractive destination for those seeking a blend of adventure and security. Astana digital nomads will find the city’s culture score of 70/100 and nature score of 70/100 particularly appealing, with its vibrant cultural scene and proximity to stunning natural landscapes.
One of the primary reasons digital nomads love Astana is its eclectic mix of Soviet-era architecture and futuristic skyscrapers, which provides a fascinating backdrop for exploration and inspiration. The city’s relatively low cost of living, coupled with its growing expat community, makes it an excellent choice for remote workers looking to experience a new and exciting culture without breaking the bank. As an Astana digital nomad, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local way of life, learn about the city’s history and customs, and connect with like-minded individuals from around the world.
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads
When it comes to choosing the perfect neighborhood in Astana, digital nomads have a range of options to suit their lifestyle and preferences. Here are three specific areas that stand out for their character and amenities:
- Left Bank (Esbol): This trendy neighborhood is located on the left bank of the Ishim River and is known for its upscale apartments, trendy cafes, and vibrant nightlife. The area is home to many young professionals and expats, making it an excellent spot for digital nomads to connect with like-minded individuals. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the Left Bank area can range from 80,000 to 150,000 KZT (approximately $200-$370 USD) per month.
- Right Bank (Saryarka): This historic neighborhood is situated on the right bank of the Ishim River and is characterized by its stunning views of the city, picturesque parks, and traditional Kazakh architecture. The area is home to many cultural attractions, including the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation, and is within walking distance to the city center. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the Right Bank area can range from 60,000 to 120,000 KZT (approximately $150-$300 USD) per month.
- Nurzhol Boulevard: This modern neighborhood is located in the heart of the city and is known for its stunning architecture, upscale shopping centers, and vibrant entertainment options. The area is home to many coworking spaces, cafes, and restaurants, making it an excellent spot for digital nomads to work, socialize, and enjoy the city’s amenities. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the Nurzhol Boulevard area can range from 100,000 to 200,000 KZT (approximately $250-$500 USD) per month.
Cost of Living Breakdown
The cost of living in Astana is relatively low compared to other major cities in the world. Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses for digital nomads:
- Rent: 80,000-200,000 KZT (approximately $200-$500 USD) per month for a one-bedroom apartment
- Food: 5,000-10,000 KZT (approximately $12-$25 USD) per meal for mid-range restaurants, 1,000-2,000 KZT (approximately $2.50-$5 USD) per meal for street food
- Transportation: 200-500 KZT (approximately $0.50-$1.25 USD) per ride for public transportation, 5,000-10,000 KZT (approximately $12-$25 USD) per month for a monthly pass
- Coworking: 10,000-20,000 KZT (approximately $25-$50 USD) per month for a basic membership, 50,000-100,000 KZT (approximately $125-$250 USD) per month for a premium membership
Overall, the cost of living in Astana can range from 200,000 to 500,000 KZT (approximately $500-$1,250 USD) per month, depending on lifestyle and preferences.
Internet & Coworking
Astana has a relatively fast internet speed of 10 Mbps, making it suitable for remote work and online activities. Here are some popular coworking spaces and cafes with good internet:
- Astana Hub: A modern coworking space with high-speed internet, comfortable workstations, and a community of like-minded entrepreneurs. Membership prices start from 20,000 KZT (approximately $50 USD) per month.
- Impact Hub Astana: A vibrant coworking space with a focus on social impact and sustainability. Membership prices start from 15,000 KZT (approximately $37.50 USD) per month.
- Coffee Room: A cozy cafe with fast internet, delicious coffee, and a relaxed atmosphere. Prices start from 1,000 KZT (approximately $2.50 USD) per cup of coffee.
Astana has a growing digital nomad community, with many expats and remote workers calling the city home. Here are some popular meetups and events:
- Astana Digital Nomads: A Facebook group for digital nomads to connect, share tips, and organize meetups.
- Expats in Astana: A Facebook group for expats to connect, share experiences, and find advice on living in Astana.
- Astana Startup Weekend: A bi-annual event that brings together entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators to share ideas and build connections.
Culture & Lifestyle
Astana is a city that seamlessly blends traditional Kazakh culture with modern amenities and attractions. Here are some insider tips on the local customs, food scene, dating, and nightlife:
- Local customs: Kazakhstan is a predominantly Muslim country, and visitors should respect local customs and traditions. For example, it’s customary to remove your shoes before entering a home or mosque, and to dress modestly when visiting cultural attractions.
- Food scene: Astana is known for its delicious Kazakh cuisine, which features dishes such as beshbarmak (noodle soup), kuyrdak (boiled meat), and shashlik (skewered meat). Be sure to try some of the local specialties at restaurants like Turandot or Khan’s Palace.
- Dating: Astana has a relatively small but vibrant dating scene, with many expats and locals using online dating apps to connect. Be sure to respect local customs and traditions when dating, and to be mindful of cultural differences.
- Nightlife: Astana has a lively nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and lounges to choose from. Some popular spots include The Loft, BarFly, and Sky Bar.
Kazakhstan offers a relatively straightforward visa process for tourists and digital nomads. Here are some key details:
- Tourist visa: Citizens of many countries, including the US, UK, and Australia, can obtain a tourist visa on arrival or through an online application process. The visa is valid for up to 30 days and costs around 5,000 KZT (approximately $12.50 USD).
- Digital nomad visa: Kazakhstan does not currently offer a specific digital nomad visa, but remote workers can apply for a business visa or a temporary residence permit. The process can be complex and time-consuming, so it’s recommended to consult with the Kazakh embassy or a visa agency for guidance.
💡 Practical Tips
Here are some practical tips for digital nomads planning to visit or live in Astana:
- SIM cards: You can purchase a local SIM card from providers like Beeline or Kcell, with prices starting from 1,000 KZT (approximately $2.50 USD) per month.
- Transportation: Astana has a relatively well-developed public transportation system, with buses and taxis available throughout the city. You can also use ride-hailing apps like Yandex Taxi or Gett.
- Safety: Astana is generally a safe city, but visitors should take normal precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
- Weather: Astana has a continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. Be sure to pack accordingly, with warm clothing for winter and light clothing for summer.