Throughout the city of Beijing there are many indoor markets that are bursting with clothes, electrical items and souvenirs. For Tourists these are hotspots for buying ‘branded’ clothing and gifts. Get Beijing Flights with China Airlines to take advantage of a shopping spree you will never forget!
Prices can be cheap however you need to be prepared to fight for them with some bartering. Have no fear we have the top ten tips.
1) Remember that you are shopping in China. Items in China are very inexpensive. They are particularly cheap in Beijing’s markets because there is a lot of competition for the stall owners, who will do anything to make a sale.
2) Plan a time that you are going to go. The best time to go shopping in markets is later on in the day. Usually early evening is best because when it is nearly closing time the vendors desperately want to shift their stock and lower their prices.
3) Remember to bring small change with you and do not take debit or credit cards. Even if you are planning to spend a lot always take plenty of change with you. When you are bartering with a stall owner you cannot claim that you are poor and then pull out a wad of 100 Yuan notes when you are about to pay.
4) Don’t ask how much something is unless you are interested and prepared to barter for it. Otherwise you will find it difficult to fend them off. They will often call after you shouting prices. Don’t be intimidated by this, they aren’t being aggressive; they are just simply wanting to sell.
5) Before haggling for an item decide what you are prepared to pay for it and stick to it. In the unlikely event that the seller will not agree to this price then walk away.
6) Suggest a price that is lower than the price you’re willing to pay. This is a basic principle that if you want to pay 50 yuan, for instance, starts at 20 Yuan. In negotiations you will meet somewhere in middle. Therefore you will end up paying lower than you anticipated. The retailers will automatically state you an extortionate price. With the right bargaining skills you can get the item you want for 75% less than their original price.
7) Do not show too much of an interest or get attached to a product as you may be willing to pay anything for it. Do some browsing around to see what items appear to be sold by lots of stalls, this way you will know how much bargaining power you have. If one seller is charging too much, go elsewhere.
8) If you are not getting the price that you want walk away. The vender will more often than not give in and agree to your price.
9) Don’t be rude to the stall owners when bargaining gets a bit heated. Remember that it is a game and what the seller often says is just for effect.
10) Finally enjoy yourself! Joke with the vendor; it is all about being dramatic. Say things like ‘aww I go home soon and don’t have much money.’
Shopping in the markets is a wonderful experience and a lot of fun. Now that you have these ten priceless tips Travel to Beijing and try them for yourself!
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