Einkaufs- und Basarweg in Bangalore

The guide was very helpful, particularly in helping me walk down and across the streets without getting killed by bicyclists, motorbikes, and cars. We went to the Cauvery Emporium, at which I bought two small sandalwood boxes. Westerners should be prepared to squat in the toilet in the store, and bring your own toilet paper and hand soap. We next drove to and walked around several shopping streets. It was a Saturday, so it was crowded. Salespeople in every shop tried to get me to buy something. It is a very different experience from shopping at home, but then, I suppose that's one reason we travel. It is common to bargain here. Quickly I discovered that the merchant knows the quality of the goods, and knows the value of the goods, while I don't, so he is always advantaged in any bargaining or negotiation. After awhile, I just lost interest, and didn't buy anything. This is not the fault of the guide or the tour company; it was just overwhelming with the crowds and the traffic and the noise.