Astana , General info:
5/10

Formerly Tselinograd, later Akmola. Nowadays it is called Astana. Previously Astana was the oblast's center (administrative unit in Kazakhstan). Now it is a capital since 1997. The capital was transferred from Almaty. Since that time Astana is growing fast. It is situated on both sides of Esil river. The right bank is called old town, whilst the left bank is a new administrative center of the new capital.

Astana , Cheap stuff:
5/10

Astana is one the most expenssive cities in Kazakhstan along with Almaty (financial and cultural center), Atyrau (oil and gas capital) and Aktau (sea port on Caspian). Cheap stuff can be found in bazaars and large markets like "Eurasia", "Arman" and etc.

Astana , Food:
4/10

Eating is a problem in Astana though there are lots of cafes and restaurants. Unfortunately, most of them can not be considered to be cheap or good. Usually, food is expenssive and fairly good. A usual lunch for a person might cost starting from 1500 tenge (13 USD). And it is not a good lunch at all.

Astana , Hotels:
5/10

There are many hotels and lots are being built. Astana can boast Intercontinental hotel, Rixos President hotel and a few more 5* hotels. There are also 2-3 hotels with 4* grading. And lots of 2* hotels. But prices usually high inspite of fair service. A single room in 2-3* hotel might cost 40-50 usd. 6* hotels cost from 200 Usd.

Astana , Safety:
5/10

It is quite safe to walk in the downtown in midnight. Though it is highly not advised to walk somewhere in the suburbs. There lots of police cams and police booths all over the city.

Nelson , General info:
10/10

Nelson is located at the top northwest corner of New Zealand's south island. It is New Zealand's second oldest city and has been settled as early as 1841. Its location makes for discoveries into the three nearby national parks (Abel Tasman, Kahurangi and Nelson Lakes) as well as Nelson's lively arts and crafts scene, leading along the Golden Bay region.

Nelson , Different stuff:
10/10

Creative workshops are offered as a way to interact with local culture and see artists at work. They focus on typical New Zealand activities, such as wood crafting, bone carving or harakeke (flax) weaving. Moreover, interactive workshops allow you to meet wine makers, olive oil, coffee & cheese producers. Or you can venture out on a fun educational trip to the native forests bordering Kahurangi National park.

Nelson , Don't miss:
10/10

Spend a day with a local artist and experience what makes up the culture of this region.

Nelson , Food:
10/10

Great seafood cookery and mussels.