Shopping

When shopping on a trip, your are acting in unfamiliar territory. If you see something that interests you, at price you feel reasonable, make your purchased. Never have regrets if a similar item is purchased by another person at a lower price or a nicer selection is seen elsewhere. Remember that your adventure and experience making a purchase is as important as what you buy .

Every culture has developed its proper value system and modes of exchange. While travelling, many of our interactions with other people are centred on negotiation for the exchange of an item or service. In developed countries marked prices are generally accepted for the exchange, although occasionally, one can bargain a discount for volume, cash, damaged goods and other reasons. You shop to find a merchant offering the desired goods at an agreeable price.

Elsewhere in the world prices are rarely marked. Bargaining is expected in order to determine a price agreed upon by buyer and seller. It is a question of finding a balanced between how much a merchant thinks you're willing to pay, how much he thinks you want the item, the cash he needs, how many sales he has made, his general mood and your willingness to buy. Except in some exceptional circumstances, a seller will never take a loss, or sell out of politeness. Bargaining involves how you counter balanced the merchants position.

How to bargain

Research you purchase

Speak to a knowledgeable traveller or local person who has no interest in your purchase. Asked about variations of material and workmanship. Inquire about the going prices. Try to establish the price you're willing to pay according to your research

Take your time

The time spent bargaining should be relative to the importance of the purchase. Obviously everyday items can be dealt with in a few minutes, but an expensive carpet may be bargained for over several days. You may make several visits to the merchant. Always maintain a friendly attitude. In certain places, bargaining may involve the sharing of tea, food and general conversation. Accept the generosity and hospitality, it's your adventure. If you don't feel comfortable with a merchant it is best to find another .

Exchanging offers

Be polite in your changes. Don't show too much or too little interest. A merchant is not interested in someone who wastes his time. Get the seller to make several offers before you make a counter offer. This will allow him to test your interest in the sale. Used logical arguments about the merits of offers and counter offers. Don't be insulting by starting too low. Make your offers confidently. Remember that you must be satisfied with your price in order to be satisfied with your purchase.

Close the deal

If you feel comfortable with a price after exchanging several offers, declare the deal done. Make sure that both the buyer and seller understand the price by writing the agreed price on paper, entering it in a calculator, or writing up the bill, before showing any money.