Ep 3. The Far East

In episode three of "Around the World in 80 Trades," host Conor Woodman heads to the Far East, where he is quickly submerged in the bustling markets and intricate trade networks of countries like Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Woodman's goal is to purchase and transport goods that he can sell for a profit in the West, and he discovers that the Far East has a lot to offer in terms of unique and valuable merchandise.

One of Woodman's first stops is in Bangkok, Thailand, where he dives into the world of counterfeit products. In a sprawling market, he encounters everything from fake Rolex watches to imitation designer handbags, and he marvels at the skill and craftsmanship that goes into creating such convincing fakes. Woodman even tries his hand at haggling for a knockoff watch, but he knows that he will need to be much more strategic if he wants to make a profit by selling counterfeit goods in the West.

Next, Woodman visits a temple in Cambodia that is known for its traditional Khmer silk production. He meets with local silk weavers and learns about the process of spinning silk threads from cocoon to finished product, and he even tries his own hand at weaving on a traditional loom. The silk produced at this temple is of the highest quality, and Woodman knows that it will be a hit with Western customers looking for unique and exotic textiles.

In Vietnam, Woodman explores the country's thriving coffee trade. He visits coffee farms and learns about the intricate process of growing, harvesting, and roasting coffee beans. With the help of a local guide, he even samples some of the world's most expensive and rarest coffee, known as weasel coffee. Though it may seem strange to Westerners to drink coffee made with beans that have been eaten and excreted by weasels, Woodman is impressed by the rich and smooth flavor of the brew.

Throughout his travels in the Far East, Woodman encounters a range of challenges and obstacles. He must navigate the complex laws and regulations surrounding the trade of counterfeit goods, negotiate fair prices with local vendors, and contend with the unpredictable weather patterns that can disrupt transportation routes. Despite these difficulties, he remains determined to find profitable goods that he can bring back to the West.

Overall, episode three of "Around the World in 80 Trades" provides a fascinating and immersive look at the vibrant markets and unique trade opportunities of the Far East. Woodman's adventures offer a window into the intricacies of global trade and the many factors that shape the prices and availability of goods around the world. With each new episode, viewers are sure to be captivated by the challenges and rewards of Woodman's ambitious quest to circumnavigate the globe in search of profitable trades.