The Game...not the Dating Game...the Tourism Game

Some call me pessimistic, some call me cynical...and I don't disagree. But let me tell you why...after traveling for the past few months and having my brother tell me to watch out for scam artists, pick pocketers, locals, men, women...basically everyone it's hard not to question everyone that approaches you. Everyone is out for something. And if you're not, you're the only one. There are rings. Conspiracy rings that hotels, restaurants, tuk-tuks, guides, etc. form with one another. They get commission by sending their customers/guests to the others' establishments. I've been caught in several of these rings. If you do not like the ring you're in...it's hard to get out. It's become some sort of tourism game to them. whoever you happen to stumble across and befriend, you will be stuck in that ring for the duration of your stay in that city...and longer if you ask them to reccommend anything in another city. So beware as to who you encounter. sometimes they're not so great but you're stuck. And THIS is why I proceed with caution and am skeptical with all who approach me. I don't care how nice they are...they are always trying to sell you something which gets aggravating if you just want to have a conversation with a local.