Entre Les Murs

Coffee Cult

Once upon a time, moving meant that you just had to reconnect a few utilities at the new place.  Then it was gas, water, electric and cable too.  Later, you needed an internet connection, gym membership and sometimes a new mobile phone.  Ah, simpler times, the good old days.

No sir, that doesn't end the catalogue for we urbanites in these modern times.  Janet and I have most of the above already in hand, but are still working our way down the whole list.  Since it's impractical to own a car in Manhattan, we signed up for a car club, Zipcar.  It allows us to reserve a car from a dozen places around the island for increments of as little as half an hour.  All fuel and even tolls are included in the flat fee, and the membership card also opens the door, so its both simpler and cheaper than renting. 

And then we embedded ourselves one step further into American society by joining the cult of Nespresso.  We bought a Nespresso machine, an espresso machine that uses a special little capsule to make a cup.  The capsules can only be bought from Nespresso, so buying the machine is a commitment.  And when I picked it up, the smooth, carefully dressed young man who welcomed me game me the full tour, with operating instructions, descriptions of each kind of coffee capsule, a special deal on the capsule display case, and a key ring with an electronic fob so that I can be instantly identified at any Nespresso boutique.  Better than a secret handshake.

posted 24.8.07