Cracker by Damian Christie

The only white person in sight, sober as a judge and dancing to Kylie, I couldn't be more out of my element.

I'm cheered by the news that you danced. And at the global influence of Al-Kylie.

Congratulations on the Wellingtonista Award, BTW. You should use it to big-note with your foreign hosts.

I'm really enjoying these posts, Damian -- great stuff. And very much looking forward to hearing the audio on PA Radio.

Just read the lot myself. Fascinating indeedy.Sounds like a very very intense few weeks.

More good stuff!

I think $US20 is a very generous tip. It must be a very practised skill to look react completely underwhelmed and unimpressed by payment that you really know is a very satisfactory amount.

What a bizarre and fascinating place. I'd be inclined to wear a disguise to avoid all the beggars, and negative attention generally. Nothing too silly, just some local stuff that doesn't scream out foreigner.

I'd be inclined to wear a disguise to avoid all the beggars, and negative attention generally. Nothing too silly, just some local stuff that doesn't scream out foreigner.

LOL They'll never spot you in those ali-baba pants. Hell, if you buy an Om t-shirt in Pushkar before you head to Pakistan, they'll probably mistake you for a hindu.

I was thinking a bushy beard, and a funny looking dagger, which could also be useful as a deterrent.

I was thinking a bushy beard, and a funny looking dagger, which could also be useful as a deterrent.

Also, greet people by saying "dukka dukka dukka" a lot.

What a bizarre and fascinating place. I'd be inclined to wear a disguise to avoid all the beggars....

Yeah, you're kinda assuming (and from what I saw, incorrectly) that it's only westerners being asked for money. Trust me, with the amount of beggars in Karachi, and the number of westerners I saw other than in the mirror (um, zero), the locals are being hit up too.

I suggested perhaps that was as likely as me seeking out the opinion of the Pakistani expat community for a story on New Zealand politics.

I suggested perhaps that was as likely as MY seeking out the opinion of the Pakistani expat community for a story on New Zealand politics.

I thought we had this one sorted....

Must be the curry.

Speaking of beggars - If someone asks you in Paris whether you speak English and you answer yes, do not be surprised if a begging letter is thrust into your hands.

I was impressed by their industy I will admit, as the London beggars tend to sit passively on the pavement awaiting succor.