Kazakhstan Tour Packages

Discover one of Central Asia's most exciting destinations with experiences that blend nature, culture, and modern city life. Kazakhstan tour packages are designed to help travellers explore the country's most iconic attractions with ease and convenience. From the turquoise waters of Big Almaty Lake and the dramatic landscapes of Charyn Canyon to the snow-covered slopes of Shymbulak and the futuristic skyline of Astana, the country offers a diverse range of experiences for every kind of traveller. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, sightseeing, or a luxury getaway, Kazakhstan delivers an unforgettable holiday without the crowds of more mainstream destinations.

Indian travellers are increasingly choosing Kazakhstan for its short flight duration, affordable luxury, scenic mountain escapes, visa-friendly travel options, and year-round attractions. Whether it's a honeymoon, a family vacation, a friends' getaway, or a winter holiday, it offers the perfect combination of nature, comfort, adventure, and value, making it one of the most sought-after international destinations from India.

At Pickyourtrail, we design fully customisable Kazakhstan trip packages with no-cost EMI and 24/7 travel support for a seamless experience. Choose from handpicked itineraries or let our experts build your trip from scratch based on your budget and interests. Browse our Kazakhstan tour packages below and start your journey today. Enjoy stress-free planning, transparent pricing, and personalised recommendations that make your Kazakhstan trip smooth, memorable, and customised from end to end.

Why Kazakhstan Should Be Your Next International Holiday

Kazakhstan is one of the most exciting emerging destinations for Indian travellers. It offers a unique mix of breathtaking natural landscapes, modern cities, rich culture, and affordable luxury. Whether you're looking for a romantic honeymoon, a family vacation, an adventure-filled getaway, or a snowy winter escape, Kazakhstan has something for everyone.

Here’s what makes Kazakhstan so special:

Spectacular natural beauty

Kazakhstan is home to some of Central Asia’s most stunning landscapes. You can explore turquoise lakes like Kolsai Lake and Kaindy Lake, admire the dramatic rock formations of Charyn Canyon, or visit the famous Big Almaty Lake surrounded by mountains. With fewer crowds and vast open spaces, every experience feels peaceful and unforgettable.

Affordable luxury experiences

Kazakhstan offers excellent value for money compared to many European and Middle Eastern destinations. You can stay in premium hotels, enjoy fine dining, travel comfortably, and experience high-quality services without stretching your budget. It is the perfect destination for travellers seeking luxury at affordable prices.

A paradise for snow lovers

If you dream of a snowy holiday without the high costs of traditional ski destinations, Kazakhstan is an excellent choice. During winter, the mountains around Almaty transform into a winter wonderland. Shymbulak Ski Resort offers skiing, snowboarding, cable car rides, and spectacular mountain views, making it one of the top winter destinations in Central Asia.

Modern cities with a unique character

Kazakhstan offers two completely different urban experiences. Almaty combines mountain scenery, vibrant cafés, shopping, and nightlife, while Astana impresses visitors with futuristic architecture, iconic landmarks, and modern attractions. Together, these cities showcase both the cultural and contemporary sides of the country.

Easy access from India

Travelling to Kazakhstan is convenient and hassle-free with Pickyourtrail. Direct and connecting flights are available from major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad. With shorter travel times compared to many international destinations, Kazakhstan is ideal for a quick and memorable overseas holiday.

Warm hospitality and rich culture

Kazakh people are known for their hospitality and welcoming nature. Visitors can experience local traditions, delicious cuisine, cultural performances, and a fascinating blend of Asian and European influences. The warmth of the people adds a special touch to every journey.

Kazakhstan Trip Package – At a Glance

Detail	Information
Trip Duration	4 to 10 Days
Ideal For	Couples, families, honeymooners, snow lovers, adventure travellers
Starting Price	₹35,863 per person
Best Time to Visit	April to June and September to October
Winter Season	November to March
Currency	Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT)
Main Destinations	Almaty, Astana, Shymbulak, Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lake
Flight Duration	Approximately 4–6 hours from major Indian cities
Languages	Kazakh and Russian
Time Zone	UTC +5 and UTC +6

Note: Prices are indicative and may vary depending on travel dates, departure city, hotel category, and package inclusions.

With scenic landscapes, modern cities, affordable luxury, and unforgettable experiences, Kazakhstan is quickly becoming one of the most exciting international holiday destinations for Indian travellers.

Best-Selling Kazakhstan Tour Packages by Duration

4-Night Kazakhstan Trip Package

Short on leave but still want Kazakhstan? A4-night Kazakhstan package gets you Almaty's city highlights, a cable car ride up Kok-Tobe, Medeu, Shymbulak, and a day trip to either Big Almaty Lake or Charyn Canyon. Four nights, one base, no wasted days. This is the most efficient way to see Kazakhstan if you are working with a short window.

• Starting price: ₹35,863 per person (land-only, excluding flights and visa)
• Recommended split: Almaty city (2N) + nature day trips (2N)

5-Night Kazakhstan Holiday Package

The sweet spot for most first-time travellers. The5-night Almaty packageadds Turgen Gorge and Ile-Alatau National Park to the mix without stretching your budget or leaving significantly. You get the city, the mountains, and the canyons, all without skipping anything worth seeing. Most travellers from India book this duration.

• Starting price: ₹49,579 per person (land-only, excluding flights and visa)
• Recommended split: Almaty city (2N) + Shymbulak and surroundings (1N) + canyon or gorge day trips (2N)

6-Night Kazakhstan Travel Package

If you want to go beyond Almaty and actually see the landscape Kazakhstan is known for, this is the one to book. The6-night Kazakhstan package covers mountain peaks, Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes, and the Turgen Gorge trail, destinations that 4- and 5-night itineraries have to skip. Best value for travellers who want the full picture and not just a city break.

• Starting price: ₹52,192 per person (land-only, excluding flights and visa)
• Recommended split: Almaty city (2N) + Shymbulak and Medeu (1N) + Charyn Canyon (1N) + Turgen Gorge or Kolsai Lakes (2N)

Best Places to Visit in Kazakhstan

Planning a holiday to Kazakhstan? From vibrant cities and snow-capped mountains to stunning lakes and dramatic canyons, the country offers something for every type of traveller. Whether you're looking for adventure, nature, culture, or a relaxing getaway, these are the must-visit destinations to include in your itinerary. Most travellers begin their journey in Almaty, thanks to its convenient location and easy access to many of Kazakhstan's top attractions and unforgettable experiences.

• Almaty

Almaty tour packages are the perfect choice for travellers looking to experience the very best of Kazakhstan in one destination. Almaty is the heart of tourism in Kazakhstan and offers an unbeatable mix of stunning natural landscapes, vibrant city life, shopping, dining, and adventure. Surrounded by the breathtaking Tian Shan Mountains, this dynamic city is often the highlight of every Kazakhstan holiday, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, honeymooners, and adventure seekers alike.

Top attractions:

• Kok Tobe
• Big Almaty Lake
• Medeu
• Shymbulak
• Green Bazaar
• Panfilov Park

Why visit?

• Stunning mountain views
• Exciting nightlife and dining scene
• Easy access to top natural attractions
• Perfect for families, couples, and adventure seekers

Recommended stay: 3–5 nights

• Astana

Experience a completely different side of Kazakhstan in Astana, the country's futuristic capital. Known for its striking architecture, modern landmarks, and unique skyline, Astana is ideal for travellers who enjoy urban exploration and cultural attractions.

Top attractions:

• Bayterek Tower
• Khan Shatyr
• Nur Alem Museum
• Palace of Peace and Reconciliation
• Hazrat Sultan Mosque

Why visit?

• Iconic modern architecture
• World-class shopping and entertainment
• Unique cultural experiences
• Perfect addition to an Almaty itinerary

Recommended stay: 1–2 nights

• Charyn Canyon

One of Kazakhstan's most spectacular natural wonders, Charyn Canyon is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Often compared to the Grand Canyon, this breathtaking destination features dramatic landscapes, colourful rock formations, and incredible viewpoints.

Why visit?

• Stunning canyon scenery
• Great hiking opportunities
• Amazing photography spots
• Popular day trip from Almaty

Recommended stay: Day trip from Almaty.

• Kolsai Lakes

If you're looking for postcard-perfect scenery, the Kolsai Lakes should be at the top of your list. Surrounded by forests and mountains, these crystal-clear lakes offer a peaceful escape into nature. A visit here promises breathtaking views, fresh mountain air, and unforgettable moments that make your Kazakhstan holiday truly special. Pickyourtrail customised Kazakhstan tour packages from India ensure a seamless experience, allowing you to explore this natural wonder comfortably while creating memories that last a lifetime. 

Why visit?

• Beautiful alpine landscapes
• Ideal for nature lovers
• Excellent photography opportunities
• Perfect for a relaxing getaway

Recommended stay: Day trip or overnight excursion.

• Kaindy Lake

Kaindy Lake is one of the most unique attractions in Kazakhstan and a favourite among travellers seeking extraordinary experiences. It's famous submerged forest creates a magical landscape that looks unlike anywhere else in the world. Add this must-visit destination to your Kazakhstan tour package for an unforgettable travel experience.

Why visit?

• Unique underwater forest views
• Stunning turquoise waters
• One of Kazakhstan's most photographed locations
• Best combined with a Kolsai Lakes tour

Recommended stay: Combined with the Kolsai Lake excursion.

• Big Almaty Lake

A trip to Kazakhstan feels incomplete without a visit to the breathtaking Big Almaty Lake. Surrounded by towering mountains and known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, this picture-perfect destination looks straight out of a postcard. Whether you're a nature lover, photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, the beauty of Big Almaty Lake will leave you amazed. It's one of those places that makes you fall in love with Kazakhstan and instantly want to stay longer.

Why visit?

• Incredible natural beauty
• Perfect for photography
• Easy access from Almaty
• One of Kazakhstan's top-rated attractions

Recommended stay: Half-day excursion from Almaty.

Looking to experience all these iconic attractions in one seamless holiday? At Pickyourtrail, we recommend our 6 Nights 7 Days Kazakhstan Tour Packages, thoughtfully crafted to cover the best of Almaty, Astana, and Kazakhstan's stunning natural wonders. Speak with our travel experts today and let us help you customise the perfect Kazakhstan getaway based on your interests, budget, and travel style. 

Almaty vs Astana – Which City Should You Visit?

One of the most common questions travellers ask before booking Kazakhstan tour packages is whether they should visit Almaty or Astana. The answer depends on the type of holiday you're looking for.

Feature	Almaty	Astana
Atmosphere	Scenic and cultural	Modern and futuristic
Nature	Exceptional	Limited
Mountains	Yes	No
Lakes & Canyons	Nearby	No
Shopping	Good	Excellent
Architecture	Traditional and modern mix	Futuristic landmarks
Nightlife	Vibrant	Moderate
Family Experiences	Excellent	Good
Honeymoon Appeal	High	Moderate
Recommended Stay	3–5 Nights	1–2 Nights

Our Recommendation

If you're visiting Kazakhstan for the first time and have limited time, prioritise Almaty.

Almaty offers the best combination of:

• Nature
• Adventure
• Culture
• Shopping
• Dining
• Scenic attractions

If you have 7 days or more, we strongly recommend combining Almaty and Astana for a complete Kazakhstan experience.

Best Time to Visit Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan is a year-round destination, but the experience changes dramatically with the seasons. Whether you're looking for snow-covered mountains, pleasant sightseeing weather, or colourful landscapes, there's a perfect time to visit.

Kazakhstan Weather by Season

Season	Months	Temperature	Best For
Spring	March – May	10°C – 25°C	Sightseeing, nature, photography
Summer	June – August	20°C – 35°C	Lakes, mountains, and outdoor activities
Autumn	September – October	10°C – 25°C	Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Winter	November – February	-15°C to 5°C	Snow holidays and skiing

Spring (March to May)

Looking for pleasant weather and beautiful scenery? Spring is a great time to book your Kazakhstan tour package. As the snow melts and flowers begin to bloom, the country becomes perfect for sightseeing and outdoor exploration.

Why choose a Kazakhstan trip in spring?

• Comfortable weather for sightseeing
• Fewer crowds at popular attractions
• Beautiful mountain and city views
• Perfect for Almaty city tours and nature excursions
• Great deals on hotels and travel packages

Book your spring Kazakhstan holiday to enjoy a relaxed and scenic travel experience.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is the peak season for travellers who want to explore Kazakhstan's stunning natural attractions. If you love lakes, mountains, and outdoor adventures, this is the perfect time to visit. Summer is also one of the best times for family holidays, making it a popular choice for travellers looking for a fun and active vacation.

Best experiences during summer:

• Visit Kolsai Lakes
• Explore Kaindy Lake
• Discover Charyn Canyon
• Enjoy hiking and trekking
• Take mountain cable car rides

Autumn (September to October)

Autumn is one of the most recommended seasons for booking Kazakhstan holiday packages. The weather is pleasant, the landscapes are colourful, and tourist crowds are lower compared to summer. If you're looking for a balance of good weather and great travel deals, autumn is an excellent choice.

Why travellers love Kazakhstan in autumn:

• Comfortable temperatures for sightseeing
• Stunning autumn colours for photography
• Better hotel availability
• Excellent value for money
• Ideal for city tours and nature trips

Winter (November to February)

Dreaming of a snowy holiday? Winter is the perfect season to experience Kazakhstan's magical snow-covered landscapes. The mountains near Almaty become a hotspot for winter sports and seasonal activities. For travellers looking for an affordable snow vacation with premium experiences, Kazakhstan offers incredible value compared to many European destinations.

Top winter experiences include:

• Skiing at Shymbulak Ski Resort
• Snowboarding adventures
• Winter festivals and celebrations
• Scenic snow-covered mountain views
• Christmas and New Year holidays

Kazakhstan Trip Cost Planner

One of the biggest reasons Indian travellers choose Kazakhstan is affordability. Compared to many European destinations, Kazakhstan offers exceptional value while still delivering premium experiences. Here's a realistic estimate of what you can expect to spend.

Kazakhstan Trip Cost from India

Travel Style	Duration	Approximate Cost Per Person
Budget	3N/4D	₹16,233
Mid-Range	5N/6D	₹27,342
Luxury	7N/8D+	₹38,451

Note: Prices vary based on travel season, departure city, hotel category, and package inclusions.

What Affects Your Kazakhstan Trip Cost?

• Flights: Prices vary by departure city and travel season; early bookings often get better fares.
• Hotel Category: Costs depend on whether you choose budget, mid-range, or luxury accommodation.
• Travel Season: Peak summer, winter holidays, and festive periods usually have higher prices.
• Activities & Excursions: Experiences like Charyn Canyon tours, Kolsai Lake trips, Shymbulak skiing, and private sightseeing can increase costs.
• Number of Cities: Visiting only Almaty is generally cheaper than combining Almaty and Astana.

Sample Daily Expenses in Kazakhstan

Expense	Approximate Cost
Local Meal	₹500 – ₹1,000
Mid-Range Restaurant	₹1,000 – ₹2,500
Taxi Ride	₹200 – ₹700
Coffee	₹200 – ₹500
Attraction Entry Tickets	₹500 – ₹2,000
Day Tours	₹3,000 – ₹8,000

The good news is that Kazakhstan remains significantly more affordable than many popular international destinations while offering equally memorable experiences. Whether you're planning a budget-friendly getaway or a luxury holiday, our Kazakhstan travel packages can be customised to match your preferences and budget.

Kazakhstan Transportation Guide

One of the biggest advantages of booking Kazakhstan vacation packages is how easy the country is to explore despite its vast size. Kazakhstan has a well-developed transportation network that includes modern international airports, domestic flights, comfortable intercity trains, ride-hailing services, and excellent road infrastructure. Whether you're visiting the cultural capital of Almaty, the futuristic city of Astana, or the country's spectacular natural attractions, getting around is straightforward and affordable.

How to Reach Kazakhstan from India

Kazakhstan has become one of the most accessible Central Asian destinations for Indian travellers, thanks to increasing flight connectivity and traveller-friendly entry procedures. Most visitors arrive through either Almaty International Airport (ALA) or Astana International Airport (NQZ), depending on their itinerary.

Almaty is typically the preferred arrival city for first-time visitors because it offers easy access to Kazakhstan's most famous natural attractions, including Big Almaty Lake, Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes, Kaindy Lake, and Shymbulak Ski Resort.

Departure City	Destination	Approx. Flight Duration
Delhi → Almaty	Direct / Connecting	3.5–4.5 hours
Mumbai → Almaty	Direct / Connecting	4–6 hours
Bengaluru → Almaty	Connecting	5–8 hours
Chennai → Almaty	Connecting	6–8 hours
Hyderabad → Almaty	Connecting	5–7 hours

Note: Flight durations are approximate and may vary depending on airline schedules, stopovers, and seasonal operations.

Best Airlines for Kazakhstan Holidays

• Air Astana: Kazakhstan's national carrier, known for excellent service and convenient connectivity.
• FlyArystan: Kazakhstan's leading low-cost airline, ideal for budget-conscious travellers.
• IndiGo and Partner Airlines: Offer convenient connections from major Indian cities through regional hubs.

Booking Advice

• Book flights 6–8 weeks in advance for the best fares.
• Summer (June–August) and winter holiday periods typically have higher airfares.
• Travelling during April–May or September–October often offers the best combination of pleasant weather and competitive pricing.
• If your itinerary includes both Almaty and Astana, consider flying into Almaty and departing from Astana to avoid backtracking and maximise sightseeing time.

Getting Around Almaty & Astana

Almaty and Astana have one of the most developed transportation systems in Central Asia. Most major attractions can be easily reached using a combination of ride-hailing apps, metro services, taxis, and private sightseeing vehicles.

Yandex Go

Yandex Go is the most widely used ride-hailing app in Kazakhstan and is the preferred transportation choice for both locals and tourists.

Advantages:

• Fixed pricing
• Cashless payment options
• English-friendly interface
• Reliable service
• Affordable fares

Approximate Cost: ₹200–₹700 per ride, depending on distance.

Best For: Families, couples, and travellers looking for convenience.

Almaty Metro

Almaty's metro system is modern, clean, efficient, and inexpensive. It is particularly useful for travelling between key commercial areas and city attractions.

• Approximate Fare: ₹50–₹100 per journey.
• Best For: Budget-conscious travellers and short-distance city travel.

Private Sightseeing Vehicles

Travellers visiting Big Almaty Lake, Medeu, Shymbulak, Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes, and Kaindy Lake often prefer private vehicles arranged through tour operators.

Benefits include:

• Flexible schedules
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off
• Comfortable long-distance travel
• Professional local drivers

Public Buses

Astana's bus network covers most major tourist attractions and neighbourhoods.

• Approximate Fare: ₹50–₹100 per ride.
• Best For: Budget travellers and short-distance journeys.

Almaty to Astana – Best Travel Options

Many travellers include both Almaty and Astana in their Kazakhstan itinerary. The two cities are approximately 1,200 km apart and can be connected by either flight or train.

Mode	Duration	Best For
Flight	1.5–2 hours	Fastest option
Overnight Train	12–16 hours	Scenic and budget-friendly
Private Road Transfer	Not recommended	Long travel time

Recommendation: Flights are the preferred option for most travellers, as they save significant travel time and are often surprisingly affordable when booked in advance.

Domestic Flights Within Kazakhstan

Because Kazakhstan is the ninth-largest country in the world, domestic flights are often the fastest way to travel between destinations.

Popular routes include the following:

• Almaty → Astana
• Astana → Shymkent
• Almaty → Aktau
• Astana → Aktobe

Route	Approx. Flight Duration
Almaty → Astana	1.5–2 hours
Astana → Shymkent	1.5 hours
Almaty → Aktau	2.5–3 hours

• Approximate Cost: ₹4,000–₹12,000 per person, depending on season and booking date.
• Best For: Travellers covering multiple cities within a shorter timeframe.

Intercity Trains in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan's railway network is one of the most extensive in Central Asia and provides a comfortable and affordable alternative to domestic flights.

Popular train routes include:

• Almaty ↔ Astana
• Astana ↔ Shymkent
• Almaty ↔ Karaganda

The trains are comfortable, reliable, and offer scenic views of Kazakhstan's vast steppes and landscapes.

• Approximate Cost: ₹1,500–₹5,000 per person, depending on class and route.
• Best For: Travellers who enjoy scenic journeys and a slower-paced travel experience.

Is Transportation Expensive in Kazakhstan?

Not at all. Compared to Europe, the Middle East, and many popular international destinations, transportation costs in Kazakhstan offer excellent value for money.

Transport Type	Approximate Cost
Metro Ride	₹50–₹100
Bus Ride	₹50–₹100
Short Taxi Ride	₹200–₹500
Airport Transfer	₹1,000–₹2,500
Domestic Flight	₹4,000–₹12,000
Intercity Train	₹1,500–₹5,000

Note: Prices shown may vary based on exchange rates, travel season, route, and service provider.

Kazakhstan Visa Requirements for Indian Travellers

Great news for Indian tourists: Kazakhstan offers visa-free entry for up to 14 days for Indian passport holders! This makes it one of the most accessible Central Asian destinations for travellers from India.

Key Detail	Requirement
Visa-free stay	Up to 14 days per visit
Maximum entries	3 visa-free entries within 180 days (42 days total)
Passport validity	Minimum 6 months from entry date
Required documents	Return ticket, hotel booking/accommodation proof, travel insurance (recommended)
Registration	Hotels handle ePol registration automatically; private stays require registration within 3 days
When a visa is needed	Stays beyond 14 days for work or study purposes. Apply at (https://vmp.gov.kz/en/).

Pro tip: If you plan to stay longer than 14 days or visit multiple times within a short period, apply for an e-visa through Kazakhstan's official visa portal before your trip. Always check the latest entry requirements before booking, as policies can update.

What's Included in Our Kazakhstan Tour Packages

Our Kazakhstan sightseeing tour packages are designed to offer a seamless and stress-free travel experience, covering all the essentials needed for a memorable holiday.

• Handpicked hotel accommodation with daily breakfast
• Airport transfers and intercity transportation as per the itinerary
• Guided sightseeing tours and excursions to major attractions
• Customisable itineraries based on your budget, interests, and travel style
• Choice of hotels ranging from comfortable stays to luxury properties
• Expert trip planning and destination recommendations
• Assistance with Kazakhstan visa requirements and travel documentation
• 24/7 travel support throughout your journey
• Flexible package options for couples, families, honeymooners, and groups

What's Not Included in Kazakhstan Tour Packages

The following expenses are generally not included unless specifically mentioned in your selected package:

• International flight tickets (unless chosen during booking)
• Kazakhstan visa fees, if applicable
• Personal expenses such as shopping, laundry, tips, and additional meals
• Optional tours, activities, and experiences not listed in the itinerary
• Travel insurance (highly recommended for international travel)
• Early check-in, late check-out, and room upgrades, unless specified
• Expenses arising from unforeseen circumstances, such as weather disruptions or flight delays

Why Choose Pickyourtrail for Your Kazakhstan Holiday?

Planning an international holiday should be exciting, not overwhelming. At Pickyourtrail, we make exploring Kazakhstan effortless with personalised itineraries, carefully selected stays, and end-to-end travel support.

• Over 1 million customised itineraries created for travellers worldwide
• 12+ years of expertise in planning international holidays for Indian travellers
• Fully customisable Kazakhstan tour packages tailored to your budget and travel preferences
• Handpicked hotels and curated experiences across Almaty, Astana, and beyond
• Flexible itineraries with your choice of destinations, activities, and travel dates
• Expert destination guidance, including visa assistance and travel planning support
• Transparent pricing with no hidden costs or surprise charges
• Dedicated support before, during, and after your trip
• Seamless travel arrangements, from accommodation and transfers to sightseeing and experiences

Skip the stress of planning and enjoy a hassle-free Kazakhstan holiday designed entirely around your interests, pace, and budget.

Book Your Kazakhstan Tour Package Today

From the vibrant streets of Almaty to the futuristic landmarks of Astana and the breathtaking beauty of Charyn Canyon and Kolsai Lakes, Kazakhstan promises an unforgettable holiday. At Pickyourtrail, trusted by thousands of Indian travellers, we create fully customised Kazakhstan tour packages with handpicked stays, seamless planning, transparent pricing, and 24/7 support. Ready to start planning? Explore our best-selling packages or speak with our travel experts today to get a personalised itinerary and pricing tailored to your budget, travel dates, and preferences.