Perhaps the best way to wind up an intro to Kazakhstan would be to describe Almaty as the fashion capital of Central Asia; being unorthodox while being elegant at the same time means that women take much pride (and pleasure) in dressing up, and the men seem to appreciate this, as evident in the happy faces everywhere. Also, being of somewhat mixed pedigrees, heights and body contours range from tall and lithe to petite and voluptuous. Be that as it may, clothing and jewelry stores, hair and nail salons, and footwear and gadget shops abound in this bustling little city.
Standalone and brand conscious outlets far overtake malls, and one of the best-known shopping districts is the very touristy Arbat Street. If one is staying in the center of town (as I was), almost all the markets are within a mile or so of walking distance, and it is totally worth it to simply saunter across the neighborhoods taking in the sights and sounds. Flower lined sidewalks compete with tree lined avenues, and in the middle of it all stand quirky art installations, especially in this rather picturesque quarter. I was pleasantly surprised to find extremely reasonable prices, and even using my Indian currency I found good value for money.
In fact, a number of persons in the subcontinent are engaged in thriving business and trade across the border. Indian educational institutions- especially medical colleges- have either a campus or students studying at the universities; some have progressed to putting down their roots in this most hospitable nation (and as long as bilateral relations between India and Kazakhstan continue to thrive). Food and handicraft are the most sought-after items, but that said the other ‘Stans, as well as Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan also have considerable influence upon the local food choices and even dedicated restaurants catering to the particular cuisine of any of these regions. 
Not to be missed are the numerous small or large supermarkets and greengrocers for fresh supplies of fruit and vegetables and also pre-packaged easy meals of salads and sandwiches. The Rakhat Chocolate Factory is another must visit for the dizzying variety of candies and sweetmeat, and of course some of the finest chocolates. It was teeming with people, so it was difficult taking pictures inside, but it was an afternoon worth its weight in the sweetest of memories.
