Communal Shopping

Shopping in the open market here, is quite an experience, especially when shopping for clothes. The sales women wait outside all day hoping to make a sale, so when a buyer shows up it is quite exciting, for ALL!

I was looking for a zip up sweatshirt. The one I have should be burned--- it is ugly and stained. So I set out to the market carefully peeking at each stall. I am careful to not say what I am looking for because as soon as they know the sales people will latch on to me and try to have me buy from them or from their friend. But sooner or later, I have to ask about a size or a price, and then they know. They gather around to help me find a sweatshirt.

I have to be in a very good mood and brave. I have to say what I want, and reject options as gracefully as I can with my Mongolian. I have to say, "No, it's really is too small or I'm looking for a different color, or I want one with a zipper."

Finally, I find one that looks good. It fits and I am very happy, but it comes with pants; so I have to strip down with ten sales women looking on, while one wraps a towel around me to make a changing area. They all encourage me and say how nice it looks. They are of course wanting to make a sale, but 9 of the 10 join in just for fun.

It is exciting indeed! They all tell me how I should wear it, and run to their stalls for different options!! I finally buy a couple of things and realize I actually had a good time shopping. I wasn't overwhelmed and actually enjoyed the company.

Then I know I've changed. Will I actually feel lonely next year while shopping in America, all alone in my own private dressing room with a door that locks?! Probably not! :)