Bartering in Thailand

Went to the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar and got a wood elephant sculpture for Kana. You learn pretty quickly that prices here are higher for foreigners at the markets. You can get it down a lot by speaking Thai, or even just by asking “how much?” in Thai, partly because they appreciate the effort, and partly because they know you must know your way about a little more. But the bottom line is, if you’re visiting you’ll often be paying a lot more for things than the locals.

I think a reaction from some people is to try to “win” at bartering. They feel like they’re being taken advantage of or being played as fools, so they try to hardball negotiations a bit. This just doesn’t work, particularly if you give off the vibe that you think the seller is trying to scam you. It’s insulting, and everyone goes away just feeling terrible. Most people here will take offense to the insinuation they were trying to cheat you, and stubbornly keep to the first price out of pride.
The goal of bartering isn’t to win, it’s to come to an agreement that you’re both happy, or at least satisfied, with. Here’s what I suggest-

-In a market, don’t come to them, let them come to you. Just by starting the bargaining you’re showing you already want it, which puts you at a disadvantage. Just stand around idly looking at the goods as if it’ s more scenery. Make it look like you’re about to move on. (Obviously, this won’t work if there are other people the seller can stay busy with who do seem interested. In that case, come back later, or wait until you get to another stall selling the same thing).

-When they ask you if they can help you, ask how much what you want is in thai, as if its just one of many things there, and you’re just curious about a price since they asked. When they reply, whatever that price may be, just sort of look at it doubtfully. Don’t look insulted by the cost or complain it’s too much, and don’t do anything to suggest you’re entering negotiations with them. Just give off the vibe that it’s not really your kind of thing.

-at this point, they’ll either come back with a testament to the items’ quality, at which point you can repeat step two, or ask you how much *you* want to pay for it. Look like you’re thinking about how much its worth to you for a minute, and offer a fifth what they asked for. Plan to pay about two fifths, but make it look like its give and take when you meet around that range.

-Finally, keep in mind you don’t necessarily need to get the cheapest possible price, just a price that’s cheap for you. Sure, maybe a Thai girl could walk in and get something that you paid $3 for for $2. Well guess what? She probably earns about $150 a month, and the seller knows that. At that point it’s just nitpicking for the sake of it. Relative to your income, you’re getting a better deal, So let it go.