The short answer
Do browse freely, compare in several shops and ask about materials and origin. Bargaining is common in tourist markets, so a friendly counter-offer and a smile are normal, but it is polite to stop when you reach a fair price. Do ask for a receipt for larger purchases and check export rules for antiques and some items.
Don't bargain if you do not intend to buy, and don't handle goods roughly. Fixed-price shops and supermarkets do not bargain. Pay in the currency agreed, count your change, and keep small notes for small buys. Buy gemstones and antiques only from established shops.
Key facts
- Do
- Compare, ask, smile
- Bargaining
- Friendly, in tourist markets
- Keep
- Receipts for bigger buys
- Check
- Export rules for antiques
How it works
- Compare before buyingVisit a few shops.
- Ask about the itemMaterial, maker, origin.
- Bargain with a smileAnd stop at a fair price.
- Take a receiptFor larger purchases.
Insider tip
Carry small notes; change is not always available.
Avoid this
Do not bargain at fixed-price shops.
Related questions
Is bargaining expected?
In tourist markets yes, in fixed-price shops no.
Can I take antiques home?
Rules apply; ask the shop and check export rules.
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