Kazakhstan is stepping into the global tourism spotlight, and Seychelles-based tourism expert Alain St.Ange has been pivotal in showcasing the country’s vast potential.
Invited by ‘Visit Almaty,’ the tourism department of Almaty, Kazakhstan, St.Ange led official training sessions designed to prepare government and industry representatives for the evolving demands of international tourism.
The sessions brought together 300 government delegates from various sectors, including tourist police, customs officials, destination managers, and rescue teams. Divided into 10 groups, participants underwent intensive two-day workshops to better understand international standards in hospitality and ways to create a welcoming environment for foreign visitors.
A Fresh Perspective on Kazakhstan
St.Ange, a seasoned tourism consultant and Vice President of the World Tourism Network (WTN), praised Kazakhstan’s offerings as a unique travel destination. “Kazakhstan has the most incredible mountains just 30 minutes from Almaty’s city center, complete with ski slopes covered in four feet of snow. The country also boasts rivers for white-water rafting, stunning lakes, vast deserts, and breathtaking canyons,” he shared.
Highlighting the nation’s rich cultural heritage, St.Ange described Kazakhstan as neither entirely Asian nor European but as a fascinating Eurasian blend. This distinct identity, combined with its natural assets, positions Kazakhstan as an emerging hub for adventurous and cultural tourism in Central Asia.
Empowering Kazakhstan’s Tourism Sector
The training sessions aimed to bridge knowledge gaps in the local tourism industry, focusing on how to engage with international visitors and meet global hospitality standards. Participants also learned about the importance of showcasing Kazakhstan’s unique assets while fostering an inclusive and friendly environment for tourists.
St.Ange emphasized the significance of regional collaboration, urging Kazakhstan to partner with neighboring Central Asian countries to establish a unified ‘Central Asia Tourism’ brand. This initiative, he explained, could help the region compete as a cohesive travel destination on the world stage.
“The knowledge of international tourism is average,” admitted one of the event organizers. “Our goal is to emphasize the importance of global standards in hospitality and behavioral norms, ensuring Kazakhstan is recognized as a friendly and attractive tourist destination.”
Expanding Horizons Beyond Oil and Gas
Kazakhstan, rich in oil and gas, is now diversifying its economy, with tourism identified as a key pillar for sustainable growth. St.Ange encouraged the country’s leaders to engage with organizations like the World Tourism Network (WTN), which can provide global insights and partnerships to elevate Kazakhstan’s profile in international tourism.
“Tourism can become a solid pillar of Kazakhstan’s economy, complementing its natural resources. The country has remarkable potential to attract discerning travelers looking for new and unique destinations,” St.Ange stated.
Training for Excellence
The training sessions focused on empowering managers across government sectors to disseminate their newfound knowledge to frontline personnel. The program culminated in an interactive Q&A session, allowing participants to address specific challenges and opportunities in Kazakhstan’s tourism development.
Key goals of the training included:
• Implementing international hospitality standards to enhance visitor experiences.
• Promoting cultural awareness and friendliness to establish Kazakhstan as a welcoming destination.
• Highlighting the importance of global collaboration in building a sustainable tourism ecosystem.
A Vision for Central Asia
St.Ange’s vision extended beyond Kazakhstan, calling for a collaborative approach among Central Asian nations to create a cohesive tourism identity. By leveraging shared natural and cultural assets, the region could attract international travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.
“Kazakhstan is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered,” St.Ange said. “With its stunning landscapes, unique cultural heritage, and strategic location in Central Asia, the country has all the ingredients to thrive as a global tourism hotspot.”
