How to haggle respectfully

On a recent trip to Turkey, the impoliteness of some tourists towards local market sellers took me back. Haggling, is very much a part of market culture and you should absolutely haggle, but, what I observed was beyond acceptable. One lady snatched shoes out of the seller's hand and threw a couple of notes at him, paying much less than the price set, another screeched 'you should be so lucky' and threw the item, when the seller explained that he could not knock the price any further.

Isn’t it absurd that many of us do not think twice about paying £5 for a drink at Starbucks, but refuse to give a market seller an extra pound for an artisan item or a very good knock-off (it is what it is). This behaviour might be linked to ideas of value and worth, but that’s another topic…

Here are my top tips on how to haggle respectfully:

1. Do your research. Walk around, enquire about items, to get an idea of approx prices.

2. Can you afford it? What is the max price you are willing to pay?

3. Put yourself in the sellers' shoes, and see it from their point of view.

4. Be polite, respectful and friendly. Your passport or how much money you have does not make you better than anyone else.

5. Strike a deal, ‘if I buy more than one...’ etc

6. Be aware of body language, is the seller leaning forward, do they seem open to chatting... or have they backed off? Has the banter dried up, does it seem fun?

7. Perspective. If you love something and it's unique, is paying a pound extra too stretching? It will defo benefit the seller and it won't harm your lifestyle. If you can’t afford it and they can’t match your price then seriously move on with your life.

8. And after all that, enjoy it!

Haggling is fun. It is a huge part of the market culture and you are expected to haggle. It is great for banter and getting to know local culture and people. But remember haggling does not mean a chance to get stuff for free or treat people without respect. Haggle respectfully and have fun.