It's just business as in any other country in the world: supply and demand. If people are willing to pay, the company sells...

My intention is not to argue whether the prices are reasonable or not, but having spent time in countries like the US I have experienced that many expect to pay the same price for goods as they do at home (or preferably less). It is for many not pleasant to discover that certain commodities cost more in Europe. I have to deal with gas at USD 5.60 per gallon (US, not imperial), US$75,000 for a Volvo V70 (not the top model) produced in our neighbour country, US$4.50 for ONE can of Guinness at the supermarket, US$10 for a pint of beer in a bar etc etc (For the record: I was employed at a US state university in 2002, and my Norwegian salary was less than my American colleagues )

So whether some industries rip off or trapp tourists really depends on whether you compare with the prices at home or the prices in the home market of the given products.

Living in a high cost country, a new Aran sweater costs me the same as one night out wining and dining... :rolleyes: