As posted above, supply and demand. Less customers, but the customers who need the service are somewhat "addicted". The Asian community has an above average propensity to save, so even the ones who were not frugal are being supported by their deep pocket friends who saved their money. They are, for most part, not hurting like out-of-work Americans. Rent and living expenses are shared. Simple foods are cheap and plentiful. They can wait, and if you want to see them, you'll pay a premium. A fundamental difference in culture.