Musings... the sequel

What can I say about the markets? "Onslaught " is a word that comes to mind. I was filtering my experience with a newly acquired sinus infection so my patience ran a little thin. This onslaught came from the children and adults crowding around us as we tried to get out of the car, some begging, some trying to sell us anything. Then as we move away from the car more people approach trying to sell their wares and ask for money. It was hard to see such poverty and needs. Often you would see someone with crutches with a twisted foot or a blind person or someone crawling, begging.

One image stands out for me. We were driving to the airport and in the middle of this busy street there was small cemented area where there was a woman sitting (she had lost her right leg from her knee down) and she had a child with her and she was begging - appealing to the people in the cars. In all of this it was very difficult to not acknowledge their situation and to keep on moving. We were told that to stop and give money would bring 100 people in a matter of minutes and there could be a riot.

Back to the market - the vendors start calling out from their stands and some people are still following trying to sell you their necklaces and then when you finally want to think of buying something you have to be ready for the barter. Never pay what they ask. It is a dance of words and resolve. Some in the team are built for bartering but for those of us hungry, tired and sick you just want to get the goods and get back into the land rover whatever the price!