I was sitting in a rooftop cafe in Pushkar, India, watching kids fly sadly inadequate kites from their rooftops when I overheard the following conversation. A middle-aged American tourist had apparently hired an Indian guide to show him around the town to aid in his shopping. The young Indian man was wound up about their upcoming tour and was going on about the various shops they would visit.
Guide: “First we will visit this beautiful rug shop I know. I have a friend there and he will give you a very good price. I am telling you, they have very old rugs and antiques.”
American: “That sounds great! I’ve been looking for some real rugs. I haven’t had much luck on this trip.”
Guide: (getting into it) ” Then we will go to an antique shop I know that is down this small alleyway, off the main road. They have very good antiques — much nicer than any you will find elsewhere.”
American: “That sounds wonderful!”
Guide (excited now): “And if you like, afterward, I will take you to the factory where they make the antiques!”
American (without missing a beat): “Ahhhh… I think we should go to the factory first.”
