Comments on: Smart Bargaining When You Don’t Know The Local Language

By: Anil Polat

Anil Polat — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 11:42:35 +0000

In reply to Mary R.

When it comes down to it, bargaining is about the relationship that is formed – not the money. I think that’s part of the disconnect some people (especially Westerners) have, making the bargaining process uncomfortable.

Like you said, you’ve got to have fun with it, and the shopkeeper will be much more easy to deal with. Hang out, get a good price, and leave with something nice, all good reasons to smile!

By: Mary R

Mary R — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 08:41:27 +0000

This is great advice that I will show my husband. He’s one of those people who is very uncomfortable and thinks he’s insulting the salesperson by trying to get a better price.

In my experience in travel in Turkey, Africa, or Asia, the salesperson seems to respect you more if you (the foreigner) realizes that bargaining is part of the process of buying something.

I agree with all that you said, but I also found in my case that simply smiling can help a lot too!

By: Anil Polat

Anil Polat — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 03:37:13 +0000

@ D:

Glad you found the post useful, the question was certainly inspirational. Pen, paper, and a steel resolve!

By: D

Sat, 14 Mar 2009 23:24:53 +0000

All right–I’ve got my advice…now to put it to use, hehe.
They sure can get pushy though–their children would swarm me. x.X
Paper and pen will definitely be my bargaining friends. Thanks Anil. 😀