Besides the great sense of discovery one has in exploring the traditional markets, a spirited haggling session can round out even the smallest purchase.
Bargaining or regateo is considered something of an art in Mexico, but visitors should know when and where to do it. Shops in malls and on main streets always have fixed prices and are not open to bargaining. It can even be considered impolite to ask the sales assistant for lower prices. Many, however, often offer discounts and may give you a special price if you buy several items. The best thing is to wait and see what happens.
Traditional curios are well represented, with souvenir shops in most hotels, malls, and of course in El Centro. The Downtown shopping experience is not to be missed. Handcrafted leather and fabrics-from a variety of Mexican crafts people-include everything from Looney Tunes leather jackets and tire-soled huaraches to classic white cotton and colorful embroidered huipiles, the traditional dress of Maya women. Pottery from the Oaxacan glazed black to the festively hand-painted vies for your attention. Then there is basketry from across Mexico in a dazzling array of shapes, sizes and colors.
Shopping in the market is a multi-sensorial experience. Freshly cooked food and fruit scent the air; panoply of smells blending in with the bustle of shoppers and vendors. Bargaining is expected in the rustic markets and competition is fierce, so jump right in.
Bargaining can be fun, if somewhat exhausting. Body language is all-important here and you will notice that many vendors are accomplished actors. Bear in mind that when you first ask how much an item costs, you will be given a much higher price. You must respond with a counter offer.
Do decide before you start to bargain whether you really want the article. You also have to take into account the quality of the item you are interested in. If you go too low, you are signaling that you do not want to buy, or are ignorant of the item´s real value.
The art is to beat the vendor down to a price that you are prepared to pay for the item and that he also considers worth his while. The process can take some time with both parties making counter offers. To speed things up you can make a final offer, if it is refused, start to walk away or go to a nearby stand to examine similar items. The response will probably be a lower price if the vendor really wants to sell.
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