My second day in the vibrant city of Kolkata was filled with essential shopping and exploring some of the city’s iconic sights, including the famous Howrah Bridge. Guided by Google Maps, we visited some other spots near the bridge.
Our day began with a necessary trip to Mehta Market to buy some medicines. We noticed the differences from traditional markets back home in Bangladesh. Later, we entered the Bagree Market, buying cosmetics as gifts for family and friends back home. I was pleased to find the prices reasonably lower and some items that aren’t available back home.
The shopping experience in Kolkata was mixed; while there were good moments, there were also some not-so-great encounters. Interestingly, most tourists here seemed to be from Bangladesh. I observed that while Bengali is the local language in Kolkata, many young people here seemed more comfortable speaking Hindi or English, perhaps viewing Bengali as outdated. However, this was just a brief observation and not an in-depth analysis.
Traveling abroad always brings with it the pressure of getting gifts. However, while managing travel expenses is manageable, the additional costs of shopping can discourage further exploration.
For meals, we became more mature at selecting places to eat. In the morning, we tried around five different dishes at the nearby Sanam Hotel, where the quality and price of the food were satisfactory. Since it was Friday, we attended the Jumma prayers and later enjoyed a traditional Biryani at the Bihari Colony. The portions were surprisingly generous; even a half plate was enough to satisfy our hunger.
Kolkata is a neat city. This trip was mainly about overcoming my fear of travelling abroad. I chose to explore nearby places on foot instead of visiting popular tourist spots, planning to be better prepared for a more extensive exploration next time.
As I wrap up my reflections on my journey, I wonder about your experiences with overcoming travel anxieties and exploring new cities. Have you ever travelled with minimal plans, and how did it turn out? Please share your stories in the comments below.
It sounds like you’re getting a real feel for the city, from the bustling markets to the iconic Howrah Bridge. It’s great that you’re conquering your fear of travelling abroad!
