Tourist Dollar

Whole markets are set up specially targeting foreigners who often pay at least thrice the price as locals. The Russian Market and Central Market are examples. I bought what I thought was a traditional Khmer wrap skirt. The lady seller even showed me how to wear it. When I returned back to the hotel, I showed the wrap to the maids who were making my bed. They laughed heartedly and spread their hands on the table. I had bought a tablecloth! They told me that if they had bought it, they would’ve only had to pay $3, which was twice what I paid. Is this just taking advantage of foreigners? Or merely showing how relative wealth can be – $3 is a rip off for us, but a means of livelihood for them.

Above: Central Market looms