Here are top 10 tips for shopping and haggling:
1. Be prepared to pay in cash – most shops that aren’t fixed price will expect cash.
2. Speak to others at your resort or in the shops to get an idea of the going rate for items. This will not only save you a lot of time but you’ll know whether you’re getting a good deal.
3. At the shop, first ask politely how much the item is and try not to show any emotion when you hear the price.4. Look uninterested, say it’s too much and start looking at other items in the shop.
5. Usually, the vendor will then ask how much you want to pay. Reply by asking for their best price. When they respond with a lower price, take your time, then ask if they go any lower.6. It’s usually about here negotiations start to stall. Make a counter offer of about 50 per cent of the initial asking price. You’ll be able to tell by the salesperson’s reaction whether you’re in the ballpark or not.
7. Indicate you can’t go any higher and slowly begin to leave the shop. The shopkeeper will either yield to your price or not.
8. Be firm but, of course, polite and if you’re still not happy leave and return later in the day. If it’s been a slow day they may be more open to compromise.
9. Stop and do a quick calculation – are you actually arguing over 50c?
10. Don’t rush out on the first day and grab everything in sight. Take your time and ask yourself the following: Will I wear it back home and, as importantly, am I allowed to take these shells, wooden artefacts and the like through Australian Customs?
Source: Courier Mail
