It works much the same in The Philippines. "kano tax" (Ameri(k)ano) as it called is in full effect. If you are not a local they will (try) to get 2-3x normal price for everything. Renting is a joke, a lease is a joke. Landlords can and will do as they wish, when they wish. They will just say to you "if you don't like it leave" keeping your deposit. Commercial leases are far-far worse. They will wait till you business is doing well, then jack the rent 10-20% knowing that your biz in now established and have no choice but to pay up.