SMS: Mon 14:45

Monday, 13 September, 2010 14:45

Currently in Van,TR

Funny to think I've had two oil changes in two weeks-what is this new maint. obsession? Roamed streets looking for a map of Iran for M. Bookstores don't seem to exist let alone maps. Every other shop sells fast food (kebab/breads/pastries). Amazing no. of Internet shops in Van-like Korea. Families go out for breakfast, women are around all day then virtually disappear at night. V. male society at nights (playing dominos/backgammon/chatting/drinking chai). Most women wear (restrained) W clothing, this far E ~15% cover their heads. 2% wear full length overcoat-26C 27% out of the sun @1800m. It is an odd mix of W and ME cultures. I'm not sure I've seen a normal restaurant. People very willing to help but little Eng spoken-not that they should,obviously. Much misunderstanding occur particularly with hand wavy actions that could be price for two or price each. Cash points here in Van have had a 5-10 queue all day. Qs inside are much longer.