Saturday, 27 June 2009

• Lets Make a Deal: The Art of Bargain

  
  

  Everyone is always looking for a deal; whether its 10% off here or buy one get one half off, getting a little something extra helps. I know someone traveling through Southeast Asia right now and he told me he has mastered the art of bargaining. While visiting these Third World countries, bargaining a deal is second nature for tourists who are trying to buy goods from vendors who are anxious to make a sale. You say 7,000KIP, I say 5,000KIP for that fruit shake. (KIP being the official currency of Laos)
  
  
  It made me wonder why we never bargain in the United States. Sure that flat screen television for $499.00 is a great deal, but should I really bargain with this Best Buy employee for a discount because I feel it should be cheaper? Its interesting to hear his stories about how he constantly negotiates with a vendor to get even a dollar off, since his backpacking lifestyle encourages him to save as much money as possible. I think the closest I've come to bargaining was asking for a 10% discount over a shirt I really wanted to purchase, but had a small hole in it.
  
  Have you ever bargained for anything? Whether it be at home or while traveling, are you willing to ask for a deal?
  

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