Astana, Kazakhstan

In the hotel lobby it is a beehive of activity. Nervous men rush from one end of the big entry hall to the other, surely trying to organise some meeting. Waitresses pass with coffee and colas. Security men speak into their wrists with a little clear wire hanging from their ear.

Having been here during communism, I can't help

but compare. Astana is probably an extreme example of change. Astana was a small isolated village then and now it is a bustling capital city. It's youthful population is energetic and excited. Contrary to many countries, the dynamic young professionals here don't pin their hopes on eventually leaving, immigrating to a richer country. They want to stay and build their future and fortune here.

The city is really astounding... a Dubai in the steppe. This picture was taken this evening at around 22:00. There was a light and water show with music as families and couples walked around and enjoyed the cooler evening air.