Shopping tips
When travelling to Asia, many visitors indulge in the wonderful practice of shopping. But shopping can both be rewarding and disappointing. Who hasn’t heard the story of the traveller who bought an expensive vase, only to see an exact replica of it for a quarter of the price somewhere else? Or the one where an uncle had a good bargain, only to find that the workmanship was terrible when he opened the wrapper.
Here are some tips which may help you get the best out of shopping.
1) Don’t seem too interested.
This is easily the most likely reason for buying something you don’t need. The moment you spend more than a second looking at something, you will be swamped with locals all trying to sell you the item. Only stop if you know for sure you’re buying something. Otherwise, you’ll just be wasting your time, and theirs.
2) Take your time when buying.
Many foreigners tend to jump at the item after hearing the price as it’s usually a lot cheaper than if they were to get it back home. Don’t. For two reasons. One, prices are usually marked up way higher for foreigners as they believe in your buying power. Two, why pay for one, when you can get two for the same price?
3) Always inspect the goods before leaving the shop.
The trick most locals use, is the item swap. First they show you the item, and it’s really nice and all. Then you haggle for a good price which they agree to. Then to show you their hospitality, they offer to wrap up the item. The moment they turn their backs to you, they swap the item for an inferior one and you end up taking home something broken or faulty.
Once a friend wanted to buy some ‘Dockers’ pants at a street market but couldn’t get the right fit. The sales attendant went to get him a better fit and came back with a pair with some weird brand on it. He claimed it was the same pants. We both walked out without another word.
4) Bargaining is the way to go.
Bargaining is the best way to shop in Asia. All you have to do is ask the price. Think about it for a while and tell them you want it cheaper. They will ask you to quote a price and then proceed to tell you they can’t give it for that much. Tell them someone else offered you that much and they will try to negotiate for more giving all sorts of excuses included sob stories and all. Now is the time to stand by your price. If they disagree, walk away. They will come running after you and agree to your price. If you really want that item, you’ve got yourself a deal. If not, you should have been out of there a long time ago.
5) Always shop at the end of the trip.
One common mistake many travellers make is to go shopping early during the trip. First, you’ll have more luggage to carry and secondly, you’re more likely to come across the same items for a much cheaper price. Wait and see. It gives you time to look around and find the best bargains in town. You might also meet people who can recommend to you the best places to shop.
pin :: 13 Dec 2007 :: Travel Insights ::
These are good tips to keep in mind when traveling to Asia.
Thanks!