Shopping

Fixed prices are the norm of department stores and a number of shops in Bangkok, but at most other places bargaining is expected.

Generally, you can obtain a final price of between ten and forty percent lower than the original asking price.

There are no hard and fast rules for bargaining and much depends on your skills- and the shopkeepers mood. But remember, Thais appreciate good manners and a sense of humour and they are put off by loud voices and loss of temper.

Generally, shopping in Thailand is easy, fun and very rewarding, but take the following advice, especially when making gem and jewellery purchases:

Never let a tout or a new-found friend take you shopping. Stores give commissions to these people and that cost is reflected in the price you pay.
Choose a shop carefully. With gems, for example, make sure it is a specialist in that field and not simply a general souvenir store.
Shops in Hotel Arcades pay high rents and, accordingly, prices tend to be higher than at street shops. On the other hand, however, Hotel Arcades are very convenient if you have little time for shopping. Moreover, prestigious hotels generally attract quality shops.
Shop around to compare prices, but be sure to make comparisons between like items; this is especially important with gems and jewellery.
Assess the sales assistants. Do they appear knowledgeable? Are they willing to discuss an item's bad points and good points? Take your time; never let a shop assistant pressure you into a purchase. Reputable shops will give a written agreement to a full refund on any goods returned within 90 days. If a shop refuses to do this, go elsewhere.
Obtain a receipt for goods bought and check it is correct before leaving the shop.
Ultimately, your best guide is buy what you like. Do not, for example, buy gems or jewellery for the purpose of resale or investment. They may have appreciation potential, but there are no guarantees.
Shop for pleasure, not for profit.

The "Amazing" Thailand Grand Sale Grand Service 2002

June 1st to July 31st 2002

Jointly organised by the TAT and Visa International, this year's campaign will be the biggest ever, with over 750 retail shops, department stores, hotels, restaurants, tourist attractions and theme parks participating.

Identifiable by a sticker bearing the "Thailand Grand Sale" logo, they will be offering discounts ranging from 10-80% to both local and foreign customers.

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