First priority when arriving in a new habitat? Establishing communication capability (which took 2 days and numerous visits to the internet/cellphone providers). Finally after I have had my fill of world news, IM, and FB gossips... I am ready to set out for food. Day 7 brings us to the local market, Hyper Panda, a 5 riyal cab ride away. Clean, bright, and well-stocked with local and many American favourites, HP has everything from camping gear to stone-oven fresh pizza made to order. During prayer time lights are dimmed, but you are free to stay and browse. Aside from the familiar brands back home I also saw some interesting local varieties, such as the biggest dairy section full of all kinds of cheese, milk, yogurt and laben... and here is the princess every Saudi girl wants to be - Fulla, advocating a nutritious Islamic breakfast.
I found everything except brown rice, tofu and soy milk. and all the male staff are friendly and helpful (when they are not gawking or trying to get your number). It was like shopping in an 80's midwest American supermarket, you can find all the basic variety in large quantities, kids point at you for being a weird colour, and the concept of organic, multi-grain and ethnic chic hasn't quite arrived yet... but, all in all it was a pleasant shopping experience and I will just have to go back for the oven fresh cheese pizza.
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