Since the release of the 2006 mockumentary film "Borat," the common view regarding the nation of Kazakhstan has been colored with controversy and gross misunderstanding. However, this proud land-locked country is a multicultural haven and regional economic powerhouse not to be trifled with. Here are the top 5 reasons to visit Kazakhstan that proves Borat wrong:

Reason 1: Ecological Mosaic

Being the 9th largest country by landmass, Kazakhstan only has a relatively small percentage of urbanization. It may not impress people in contemporary times but with much of everything else shifting towards eco-friendly human activity, Kazakhstan may likely be the one destination with the largest territory to draw 'mainstream eco-tourists.' Kazakhstan has 10 natural reserves and 11 national parks - all home to endangered species. This country has 4 out 5 terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems on earth!

Reason 2: History Buff's Mecca

Kazakhstan is located in the heart of the Silk Road - an ancient superhighway for international commerce between Europe, Middle East, and Asia. Essentially, this country is a huge historical wellspring that has built a total of 25,000 archaeological and architectural landmarks, 147 museums and over 8 heritage sites.

Reason 3: Cultural Melting Pot

Being located in the heart of the Silk Road makes Kazakhstan a hotbed for the world's biggest ethnic mixture and diversity. The country has 130 different ethnicities, 17 religions and (quite surprisingly) they all coexist in relative peace and harmony. They practice the kind of cross-cultural harmony that can (arguably) put other first-world nations in shame.

Reason 4: Nomadic Cuisine

Another aspect that justifies why one should visit Kazakhstan has a lot to do with their unique cuisine. With a long history of dependence in the nomadic lifestyle, this country has created unique sumptuous dishes based on cattle and dairy. Kazakhstan is a meat lover's paradise!

Reason 5: Diversified Economy

According to a comprehensive data presented by The World Bank, Kazakhstan was able to recover from 2014's oil price decline. With their effort in diversifying their resource/export-dependent economy, they are looking forward to exploring commercialization. Soon, Kazakhstan is likely to become a foreign investor's magnet.