Conquered Fear

I did it! I ventured out alone! My goal this weekend was to get groceries and other necessities like laundry detergent and dish soap. This would help to break my dependency on the very expensive hotel food. I was very afraid, I'll admit it. My fear was only compounded when there wasn't a hotel driver to use. All of a sudden I was dependent on a taxi driver who I wasn't sure spoke English. We made it to the grocery store alright and that's where the adventure began. I was stared at and watched from the moment I stepped through the door until I left. They had guards in every aisle and the other shoppers seemed overly interested in me and my choices as well. I was shocked by what was expensive and how expensive it really was. The soy milk was almost $5 a quart and the Tide laundry detergent was $10 for a very small bottle and I won't even mention the laundry softener. Now I know why most expats bring cleaning supplies. They seem to be a luxury items here. Anyway, on my way out of the store, I was stopped by the security guard speaking Hindi. After my earlier experience, see "Security Optional?" below, I made a special effort to understand what he wanted. Turns out, I needed my receipt stamped. Simple request, just not so simple via awkward sign language. My taxi driver waited for me while I was in the store and actually turned out to be wonderful. I felt like I had conquered the world upon returning to my apartment!