Mongolia is a strange mix of buddhism, communism, old world, and Western world. Ulaanbaatar is the largest city consuming half of the entire country’s population. About a third of the population was also born in the early 1980s, so it is relatively young. Outside of this hodge-podge city, where no roads lie, exist the lifestyle of nomads living as they have for ages. It is awesome to experience, but one must be prepared: you do not run into English speakers, Mongolians have a learned sense of hatred/curiosity for the West from its communist times, and you will not find any star hotels. Water is a purchased commodity, and hotels generally do not have hot water unless asked for in advance. Despite its lack of modern luxuries (they do have cell phones, television, and vehicles), it’s hard to miss its rugged beauty and peace. I do not think I have been closer to the stars than when I was in the Altai Mountains, staying in a ger with no water or electricity. This is for those who do not need luxuries to enjoy a way of life.