Mao Money, Mao Problems

By Mikala Reasbeck
19 July 2008

In China, a country where illicit substance use is a capital offense, I've found ecstasy in another form: surprisingly low prices and an exchange rate overwhelmingly in my favor.

I try to live frugally in the United States, waiting eagerly for clearance sales and clipping coupons. Public transportation has replaced the car in my life for four years. In China, I knew that the cost of living would be lower than what I'm used to at home. But metro Beijing, I thought, would still be a little pricey. To my absolute astonishment and delight, though, it's not.

The basics like food and transportation have already added up to less than $30US. Meals at the campus dining hall have run me about 3RMB ($.44 US). At home, being a vegetarian can get expensive as dairy and produce prices climb. In China, however, it's actually cheaper, though my options are fairly similar and limited.  A subway ride costs 2RMB, which is only about $.30US.

Since the basics are so affordable, my budget has a lot of room for splurges. A 45-minute hot oil massage that would cost at least $100US was only about 120RMB ($20US) here. It was the best massage I've ever had for much less than I've ever paid. And, when the subway is packed by what can feel like 17 million of my closest friends, a cab ride doesn't hit the wallet too hard either.

We're encouraged to bargain at every turn, but there are so many times that I do the conversion in my head and wonder if it's worth it. It's almost like it's not real money that I'm spending.