Roses are red, and expensive too

SURABAYA, East Java: Say it with flowers and pay a hefty price.

That's what residents here are quickly finding out as Chinese New Year on Saturday and Valentine's Day on Feb. 14 approaches.

Flower vendors have reportedly doubled the price of most bouquets in anticipation of the two commemorative days in which people traditionally buy flowers.

Antara reported on Thursday that a bouquet which previously sold for Rp 35,000 was now selling at Rp 50,000.

Roses have also rocketed from Rp 500 to Rp 5,000 each.

But one seller at Kayoon market said the increase was also related to an increase in transportation costs.

"The increase was also prompted by the rise of transportation expenses, not just due to Valentine's Day and the Chinese New Year," Antok said.(04)