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July 20, 2004
Globalization Blues
7/16/2004 1:40:13 PM | Beijing International Airport
I just ate the crappiest 93 yuan ($12) lunch at the International Food Court and Internet Coffee Shop at Beijing Airport. For me, this sign of China’s recent development from a poor, rural country to an overpriced tourist trap has truly been the highlight of my trip. A can of Sprite (Chinese version) set me back 16.50 yuan. That’s $2. For a CAN!! I blame this on the "because we can" philosophy for setting global prices, combined with rigorous globalization. If you’re in the International terminal, you’re probably from a country where those prices – while still outrageous – are facts of life –OR- you’re heading to one of those countries. Either way, they must figure it's more humanitarian to get you acclimated sooner than later.
Posted by rxu at July 20, 2004 03:57 AM