In comparison to the giants of China and Russia its squeezed in between, Mongolia can seem like a small, forgotten place, where traditional nomadic life is still practiced and empty land stretches on as far as the eye can see. And that’s not entirely untrue! But it’s this very mystery and rural simplicity that keeps Mongolia idyllic in comparison to its bulky neighbours.
The icy peaks of the Bayan-Ölgi are as majestic as the Andes, and a stay in one of the country’s eco-yurts in the shadow of their mountain range will bring you back to a way of life long forgotten in other parts of the world. Most travel guides to Mongolia, however, will be quick to point out how westernized the country’s capital Ulaanbaatar can be, and not one will leave out the legendary hospitality of locals. Whilst international fares are available, have a go at the traditional mongolian cuisine of khorkog , buzz , lapsha and tsuivaan , mastering their names and contents alongside!
Despite the cold, Mongolians can be incredibly cheerful, welcoming and down-to-earth. The truly democratic Asian nation is progressive not only in politics but also in lifestyle, and a live-and-let-live ethos takes hold over mostly everyone. See for yourself.