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In the extensive literature on adjustment and acculturation, cultural distance has emerged as a topic of increasing interest among researchers. While many studies have traditionally focused on the intrapersonal processes of individuals undergoing adjustment, there has been a notable gap in research examining the broader ecocultural contexts of intercultural contact. The present research aims to further fill this gap by focusing on the adjustment experiences of Kazakhstani students within a Hungarian context. We used semi-structured interviews with 20 Kazakhstani students, complemented by an ego network questionnaire, to examine social contact preferences. Through these methods, we sought to explore how individuals from a non-Western country navigate the challenges and opportunities of adjusting to a relatively Westernised environment. Our study highlighted significant perceived differences in cultural aspects, gender roles, relationship ties and family values between the two countries. Most participants essentialised their ethnic identity and preserved their ethno-cultural heritage in the private domain of their lives, such as marriage and family. Perceived cultural differences and limited contacts with their hosts might explain why most participants in our study prefer friendships with co-nationals.