Excellent piece, my Sister! I've seen this behavior toward Africans in Africa as well. In my own experience, I always followed the advice you give here. To my mind, it not only made sense to pay what was asked, but to pay a little more because I recognized I certainly could and I so appreciated how well I was being treated. In doing so, a bond was created and I always knew who to call when I needed anything -- and I knew they'd be there for me. Treating folk with dignity an respect goes a very long way!