Four Things Not To Buy When Shopping In India
Although India does not exactly belong to the list of the world’s most expensive countries, it does have its share of commodities that carry higher price tags than those you will commonly find in your home country. Check out the list to find out what these items are and be cautioned that buying these goodies in Indian soil might be costlier than you think.
HOLY COW! If you or your girl friends ever had a crush on Robin’s classic Holy Cow! expression, remember this exclamation when you are shopping in India. Cows are considered sacred and are therefore untouchable. Do not expect to find beefy dishes in eating places. Fabrics with cow prints can even be sacrilegious and will earn you more than looks of disapproval. The reason you can’t buy cows or cow-related designs in India is because there aren’t any for commercial trade.
BOOZE BOTTLES. Whereas in your home country you can buy booze over the counter, beers, wines and other alcoholic drinks in India come with a steep price. These drinks are considered luxury items for the general populace and are in fact enjoyed by the few elites, tourists included. If your throat is parched for alcohol and if you do not mind spending a lot of cash to quench your thirst of alcoholic products that are sold worldwide, do not be dismayed though. These booze bottles are available in licensed wine shops and supermarkets. The catch is that you’ll have to drink them privately, as public drinking is considered taboo in Indian society. Settle for tea; you’ll be much happier and you don’t have to lurk inside your hotel room like some guilty criminal to take a sip.
COOL GADGETS AND GIZMOS. Don’t whine about the fortune you’re spending for that iPhone you have. In India, the cost is way much higher, and bringing one along with you might make you a moving target for petty thefts and swindling. People seem to associate electronic gadgets with sound educational background and enviably high economic status. The line also includes branded appliances for your kitchen such as microwave ovens, refrigerators and dish washers. If you’re interested in shopping for branded mobile phones, MP3 players, laptops and the whole load of electronic gadgets, you can get these at fairer prices back home. Take note, however, just because you’re not shelling out bucks for these babies does not mean you can’t window shop for them.
DESIGNER CLOTHES, SHOES AND BAGS. If you have a passion for all apparel pieces and accessories that are proudly designer-made, you may want to consider leaving that passion in your home land until you return. Designer clothes, shoes and bags in India are unbelievably more expensive than you think. The reason is that the educated population deems these items to be a reflection of fine taste. To get the most items for your money’s worth and a taste of India to add, try purchasing saris, kurtas and dupattas.
