I flew into ALA last week and it was a very pleasant experience. The new airport terminal is open and the staff were very polite. From leaving the airplane to leaving the airport was about 20 minutes.

Had a great time in Almaty, Kazaksthan. Traffic wardens at every, and I mean every junction. I too was asked for a bribe leaving Almaty airport. I was taken to a cubicle and searched. The guy then asked how much money I had in my wallet, and asked twice for a 'collection'. I said I didn't understand what he meant, and he again said 'collection, for the computers etc.'. I again said I didn't understand what he meant, and was let go. I didn't make a fuss because I wanted to get home, but did leave me feeling cold.

The experience largely relates while departing Almaty airport in April 2008.

Let me start with a warning.."Be aware of the touts and also the officials who want to take bribe at every check points"

When you arrive at the departure lounge and will be required to fill in the Custom Declaration Form. You can fill them in yourself. However the local men may approach you offering filling the forms for you. And the they charge you for this.

Once you make it into the main hall, you may be summoned by the Custom Officer in his office. He had openly asked us for a bribe - they call it 'Bakshish'. We were stern and he asked to give it next time.

After the immigration procedure - I was again called by the security personnel who took me to the Xray room and wanted to check my purse. Although he could not and was pretending not knowing English, the body language was "Give me Money". Once again had to be very stern in my replies and he let me go.

I had good experience in Almaty while being there but somewhat spoilt on departure by these officials.

Reasonable airport, good service, quite small but big enough to serve Almaty!