[nabs-l] a couple of questions

[Maryann Migliorelli]

Hi Kerri,  First of all, none of your questions are stupid or even tedious.
The best way to learn any of this is to ask in a safe place like this list.

Here are a few suggestions regarding cabs and strange bars.  You could find
out if your cab company will put in a time call for you so you'll know
approximately when a cab will be picking you up from the bar.  You could
also ask the driver who drops you off if he could come back at a designated
time to get you.  You could ask one of the waitresses or female patrons for
directions or guidance to the bathroom or another quiet place where you can
make your call, if the first two suggestions don't work out.  Then you could
put your phone on vibrate and keep it in a pocket so you would know when a
cab is calling you from outside.  Most bartenders or waitresses will try to
keep there eyes out for a cab if they aren't extremely busy, especially for
someone who is blind.

Now, as for the mall, most people will try to give you some help or
directions if you ask the right questions.  When you go to the information
desk, you can ask where the food court is in relation to the movie theater,
ie. Is it on the same floor?  Which end of the mall is it on?  What major
stores or landmarks are near it, like a fountain or other center display?
When you have the answers to some of these things, you can ask other mall
patrons for directions that will give you a better chance to get where you
want to go.  

I know that most of us have been taught not to talk to strangers as kids,
but the reality of it is that as a blind person, you will talk to many
people in malls or other public places, and most of the experiences will be
helpful.

God out there.  Enjoy the movies and a nice bar.  With some common sense,
persistence, and good preparation you can have plenty of good times in
unfamiliar places.

If you want to talk off list, my email is
mrsmigs at migliorelli.org