Alegria
Shopping
Groceries and more: When you walk
down the main street, past the Casa de Dom Inacio, past
Frutti's, and past Alquimia, take a left at the second cross
street thereafter, and after 2 Blocks you will find "Ribeiro's"
Market on your left. They have everything you might
possibly want or have forgotten, from toothpaste to paper
products, light bulbs, plug adapters, insect repellents, to
groceries, to fruits and vegetables, to soft drinks, creme
cheese, yogurt, cookies ... you name it: it's a small
supermarket, but they have it. Prices are considerably
lower than US Safeway prices, but do watch out -- for example, Nestle
yogurt is about twice of what you pay for the equally good local
brand, 'Itambe."
The Ribeiro people will gladly deliver your purchase to your
doorstep -- just give them Apartment name "Alegria" in the
"Village," opposite to the Casa de Dom Inacio." A small
tip, perhaps 2-5 R$, will be much appreciated.
Crystals: The sky is the
limit. Abadiania is the place to get them. We
recommend really any of the numerous little stores along main
street. But the best recommendation is, of course, the Casa
de Dom Inacio "bookstore," where prices may be a touch
higher, but you know you are, in a way, making your donation
indirectly by buying their crystals that are especially embued
with the energies of the Entities. The crystal shop across
from Frutti's also belongs to the Casa de Dom Inacio. They
have a terrific selection.
White Clothing: If you forgot white
clothing for the Casa days, no problem -- there are
plenty of little stores that carry them in all sizes and shapes,
and usually for very reasonable prices.
Whatever you buy in Abadiania, you would usually
not bargain, like you would in other South and Central American
countries. You pay what they ask for. Typically,
they will offer a significant discount if you pay cash, sometimes
as much as 25%. So bring enough cash, and don't rely on
plastic. You can bring cash in your own currency (US$ or
EUR); there are several places in town where you can exchange
dollars or euros into reais at excellent exchange rates.