Feature: Damascus markets bustle ahead of Ramadan, but rising prices strain shoppers
DAMASCUS, Feb. 16 (Xinhua) -- As the Muslim holy month of Ramadan approaches, Damascus' popular markets are crowded with shoppers and stocked with food, spices and household goods. But for many residents, preparations for the month have become a painful reminder of how far their purchasing power has eroded.
Merchandise is widely available in markets such as Sarouja, al-Hamidiyah and al-Bazouriyeh, and foot traff