First Impressions of Kolkata

 It is historic. Much more than any city I have visited. Looks as though every building has a story to tell, in many parts of town. And trams.. the only place that has a few trams running, still. The river ferry is also unique to a few places in India, and Kolkata is one of them. The song Chingari Koi Bhadke with a backdrop of Howrah Bridge made that immortal in the movies.

There are a lot of franchised restaurants all over the city now, including some known to me, and some unknown. Mio Amore is a cake shop with multiple outlets. . Arsalan is a famous one for Biryani, and generally, non-veg. food. There are a few others too, such as Ganguram's, Haldiram's and so on. Small shops selling sweets are all over the place, and many other eateries that sell stuff by the roadside.. quite popular, by the look of it. There's a Professor pally and a Culture Mod (crossing) on the way to my office at Agarpara campus. 

Spencer's is a store among bigger retail stores. Many branches, including one where I live now. A comprehensive store selling almost everything including daily needs. My go to place, looks like. I like to browse and buy, a 'dying' breed these days. 

As for clothes, it seems that lesser is better. Because it's quite hot, and a fan or an AC is a must most of the time. But you could get used to it. I prefer this to the extreme cold in North India. 

I am also looking forward to the Durga Puja season, which is supposed to be a highlight - this time in September last week. 

Look forward to catching up with old friends too. One I have already caught up with. A few more, I have promised to..