By Ani Gevorgyan

They say that the marketplace is the heart and soul of any city. It’s in the hustle and bustle that a visitor gets a feel for community at large.

Vanadzor, Armenia’s third largest city is no exception. Those peddling their wares in the market complain of a lack of shoppers. Those that are in the mood for buying this or that, say business owners, have little money to spend. They’re always haggling over prices, is the oft heard refrain. Retailers say they are ready to bargain so long as shoppers understand the nuances and, most importantly, are willing to engage in a bit of political discourse.