Bargain Hunting

El mercado al aire libre en Antigua, Guatemala

Mexico and Latin American countries are notorious for their open air markets or as they say in Spanish, mercados al aire libre. It is the place to find many very good quality products. It is also a great place to find some really good knock-offs. Americans, especially those who live near the border of Mexico, enjoy spending time crossing the border to find little trinkets and treasures at an incredible bargain. What is interesting is that bartering or bargaining is expected south of the border. One would say it is kind of an art form all to its own.

I cannot stress how often I would find Americans shopping in those mercados al aire libre and not getting the best price they possibly can for their money. It is definitely a cultural thing. Americans must be put off or feel ashamed, I guess, for trying to bring down a price of something they want from a vendor who apparently lives life very humbly. In a way, we tend to feel like we are taking advantage of someone who is just trying to make an honest living. Guilt falls into play and before you know it, you are paying more for something you shouldn't be.

Don’t fall into that trap. You earned your money just as hard as they earn their money. Become part of the “art form” of negotiation. There is no reason why you shouldn’t and the vendors really do expect it. So give them what they really want and bargain that price down!

Here is a quick tip I picked up when shopping a lot of those beautiful mercados al aire libre. Really examine the product and look for any minor flaws such as a loose end or fear of inferior quality (even if it looks top notch). Find out from the vendor how much they are asking for it. Take their price and cut it in half. Start your negotiation from that price. Move up slowly, but also keep in mind a price point where you will not budget and go over. Don’t be afraid to put it down and walk away. I can’t tell you how many vendors would chase me after I did that with a product I really wanted. After that, they were more willing to bring the price down further. Once you feel satisfied by pointing out any flaws and product inferiorities, settle on a price and stick to it. One of my favorite tactics is mentioning another vendor's similar products and how wonderful they and their prices are. Both sides (the vendor and you) will feel like you've come to an honest and mutually agreeable price. Best of all, have fun and feel free to chit chat with the vendor more. It’s a great way to get to know them, their life, and the culture. Ask them for suggestions on great places to eat. You may get more in valuable information and products in the transaction.

One final thought before I leave you for now, try bargaining with more than just shop vendors. Taxi cab drivers are great to bargain prices down. Happy shopping! ¡Hasta luego!