Market Street (Little India), George Town

So, if one is in Malaysia, how about a quick trip to India? No? Well how about Little India? It is the same thing, really, without the air fare. Little India is a square shaped area bounded by Queen Street, Market Street, China Street and King Street. Bright colors, loud music, and the aroma of South Indian cuisine. All very unsubtle.

Visit any time after ten am. The place is waking up. Folks shopping for groceries. Some are snacking or having breakfast by the road. The little one-room shops that try to sell everything are open. Newspapers, drinks, shaving cream, tobacco, all sorts of little things to start the day can be had here.

Shops are selling everything, including traditional dress, gold, and costume, jewelry made from semi-precious stones. For Bollywood fans there are more than a few video stores for music and films. Garlands of flowers are available for the gods at Arulmigu Mahamariamman Temple on Queen Street or for shops and street corners.

The aromas of incense, spices and cooking permeate the neighborhood. Snacking is encouraged. Samosas which are filled pastries are tempting. How about a bowl of sweet green bean soup in coconut milk? Coconut juice? Want to buy a saree? Chettiars, money changers, are all over. Don't worry about the pigeons. Drink Malabar Tarik tea.