Our hospitality is well known far beyond the borders of our country. It originated back in the times when we were nomads and lived separately from other families for long periods throughout the year. In such circumstances, a rare traveler who reached a nomad’s camp seemed like a small miracle. He brought news from nearby areas or even distant lands and spoke of events and phenomena unknown to the average herder. Interest in and respect for the guest became deeply ingrained in the Kazakh people.
Kazakh hospitality is evident even when a guest enters the house – it is not customary for us to ask why they came. First, the guest is invited in, offered the place of honor, served food and drink. Only afterward, if the guest chooses to share the purpose of their visit, they are listened to. If they don’t, no one will pry.
I believe Kazakh hospitality is one of those cherished traditions that must be preserved and passed down through generations.
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