Magic Carpets and Banks

I wish to return from India with a silk carpet from Cashmere to match the one we have. Our driver finds us the perfect place. This is a family run operation and we get a lesson from one of the master craftsmen on how to make - and evaluate - a carpet. I have experienced this talk several times over the years. Our man is consistent and the carpets are beautiful. We purchase one.

American banks - at least Wells Fargo - have fallen far to one side of security decisions and our transaction is declined. After several calls to America we manage to find several conflicting explanations from several different departments. Apparently, new cards were shipped to us at home. During that time, all unusual purchases - like large ones from India - must be confirmed by phone. Since our phones are at home, we failed to answer and our card was shut off. We experience flashbacks of Switzerland two years ago when we were stranded at a toll booth by Wachovia Bank (now Wells Fargo). Maybe it's time to switch banks!