For newcomers of Bali, you should know that bargaining is a way an everyday thing for the locals and that Balinese love to bargain & it’s part of the daily business. You can get close to the price you are looking for in almost anything, even hotel room rates. As long as respect the vendors and approach them politely, as it’s up to them to knock off a little of the price -or not. One thing you should know is that the Balinese will try to hit you with the highest price, especially if you look like it’s your first time here. Be sure to enjoy yourself and respect the local vendors to get some great deals of local products.
Here are travel tips in Bali bargaining:
Offer it Halfway
Offer it Halfway | The Colony Hotel Seminyak
When the Balinese gives you a price, try going straight to a 50% discount and see how they react to it. They’ll usually agree on halfway between the prices. If that did not work, walk away, and they often chase you down the street and agree with the last price given. This trick is whole lotta fun and its part of the Balinese way of business.
Best Place to Bargain
Best Place to Bargain in Bali | The Colony Hotel Seminyak
Within the main tourist areas such as Legian, Seminyak and shopping malls like Kuta Beachwalk and Seminyak Village within the Area of The Colony Hotel are services you can’t bargain. The main shopping strip in Legian which stretches from Kuta to the beginning of Seminyak is a haven of local shops where you can find anything from summer clothing, handbags, jewelry to homewares. It will take a whole day to walk from one end to the other and will take you a few days to fully explore the alleyways and side streets of the main road.
Make it a Win-Win
Remember that the locals need your money for a living and that they highly depend on tourist visiting their shops. Tourists currencies are much stronger and have a better standard of living. A reminder to not drop too hard on a price, once you have agreed on a price, don’t go for more discount or you’ll end up upsetting them. Make it a win-win.
Staying in The Colony Hotel will give you a chance to stroll in the streets of Seminyak filled with local shops full of souvenirs you’ll definitely want t ob ring home. Follow these rules of bargaining, and you will pick up some great deals!