Pink City versus Gausia
Gausia is probably one of the oldest markets of Dhaka city, with internal lanes so much like a maze that one could potentially get lost in there, unless, of course, he is a regular and dedicated customer. Starting from stitched and unstitched salwar kameez, sarees and burqas to makeup and jewelry, Gausia has an immense collection of items that a person can select from. Not only does it have a wide variety of artefacts available, the products are also reasonably priced, allowing the most average Bangladeshi to shop there without feeling like their pockets are being ripped off. However, it is a bargaining market, and the shopkeepers can ask up to three times the original price. Hence, only a true haggler can come out totally victorious. Even though the market is not air-conditioned, the individual shops usually have fans inside to aid ventilation. Still, if you are feeling a bit hot in the balmy weather of Dhaka, there's always the shops selling the mouth-watering faluda to cool you down, and the spicy fuchka and chotpoti to satiate your hunger after a long day of shopping. Even so, one needs to be quite careful in markets like Gausia where pickpocketing is a common practice, and you wouldn't even realise when you've been pickpocketed amidst the crowd of crazy shoppers all eager to steal the best deals.
On the other hand, Pink City, although not as old as Gausia, has always been a favourite. As soon as you step in, you are greeted with the cool air of the central AC, and with running escalators, you don't even have to think of climbing stairs! Pink City is not pink, unlike what the name suggests. However, it is still the perfect place for those wishing to buy a fancy outfit for a special event, being full of shops selling imported clothes with eye-catching beadwork and embroidery. Be sure to bring your sunglasses inside as you are most definitely going to be dazzled by all the stone-set dresses and over the top glitter and sequins. Unfortunately, it is a little too expensive for the more average crowd, and since most shops offer fixed prices only, there is no scope for bargaining. Hence, for those wishing to buy a cheap present for an acquaintance, Pink City is not the place for you. With that said, unlike Gausia, Pink City has a five-star hotel on its top floor called Baton Rouge. So, after shopping, if are feeling particularly bourgeoisie and are craving some good food, head right upstairs!
Now that you know all there is to know about these shopping centers, get your shopping horses ready and set forth to your desired destination!
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