Not quite a local.

So Ellen and I decided this morning that we were going to save Prana the exorbitant cost of the Taj's laundry service by walking half a mile to the nearest cleaners in town. So, we packed up our little Taj laundry bag and lugged it through oppressive heat, dodging auto rickshaws and busses. Once we got there, we asked them what their prices were (which, of course, are not set). Rather than telling us, they sort of just started going through our clothes and gave us a grand total, which amounted to $17.50 in US money. Which, though lower than the Taj's prices, was ridiculous. Especially considering that I do a lot of laundry and this pile of laundry was practically nothing compared to what I normally do. So, I began to bargain. Here's how it went:

Me: Well, you see, I'm going to be staying here for quite a few months. I'm practically a local. If you give me a good price, I'll come here every week!
Manager: (Looks down at the Taj laundry bag I brought my clothes in) No.
Me: Uh, okay. Well, I guess I'll leave then!
Manager: (Silence)
Me: (Packing up my clothes) Well, okay then, packing up here...
Manager: (Silence)
Me: (Walking out the door) Leaving now...Sure you don't want to give me a better price?
Manager: (Silence)
Ellen: Nice bargaining.

So that was my morning. I think I'll go back next week and try again. Maybe he was in a sour mood this morning.