Hard times for 'betel nut beauties' as Taiwan tries to kick deadly addiction

Photos: Taiwan tries to kick deadly addiction
Along the streets and highways in Taiwan -- especially in the cities' outskirts and in the countryside -- are neon-lit booths with scantily clad "betel nut beauties."
Hide Caption
1 of 8

Photos: Taiwan tries to kick deadly addiction
Women like Ling Ling serve customers betel nut, an addictive snack that is hugely popular in Taiwan.
Hide Caption
2 of 8

Photos: Taiwan tries to kick deadly addiction
Often wrapped in betel leaves, or paan, and chewed like a large fibrous chewing-gum, the betel nut gives a buzz on a par with several shots of espresso or, some say, amphetamine.
Hide Caption
3 of 8

Photos: Taiwan tries to kick deadly addiction