Shopping with a difference

While growing up, did you have at least one kid in your high school class who showed-off about his American uncle and the goodies he would get when he visits? I did.

Though I just hated his arrogant attitude, at that point anything 'American' did seem expensive and unaffordable. But now that I am living here, I see why people are so crazy about shopping in America. Everything is so organized and designed to keep the consumer happy. Unless you are indulging in big designer brands, you don’t think twice before spending. No wonder, it's the spending culture in America. Unlike India, where the prices are hiked twice before the annual clearance, sales in America are a breath of fresh air. You could pick up your favorite dress for half the price if you just hang in there. When something goes on sale, chances are that it is more than genuine.

I was in a store once and I spotted a pair of knee-high boots. Even though I was super confused, I bought them anyway, knowing the fact that I could return them for a full refund within the next 90 days. I had the liberty of going home and try those boots wearing a variety of dresses in the comfort and privacy of my home. Now, that’s what I call good shopping.

If you have walked into a high end store in India and begged them to exchange a piece, 'because the size doesn’t fit,' or that it was a gift and you don't like it and experienced hostile cashiers, you must be knowing what a relief it is to be able to return something without any questions asked.

Surprisingly, consumerism is at its best here, even though no one is shoving things down your throat just because you purchase it. You still have the right to choose, whether you want to keep it or not. So because people know that its not the final purchase, they end up buying it anyway.

As a customer, it always makes me happy to deal under such a pleasant policy. And then of course, every big shop has a small clearance and sale aisle most of the year. The deals are super genuine. You get significant things for pennies. If you are lucky, you could come back home with multiple shopping bags. Not for pennies literally, but you know what I am implying...!