Buzz
A foreign tourist recently shared their shopping experience in Vietnam in an article published on Vietnam News. According to this visitor, one of the key shopping tips when buying in Vietnam is to bargain. The article was also republished on Malaysia's The Star Online travel advice section.
David Mann strolled around the bustling streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter with its myriad of intermingled shops. Many shops display products without price tags, fitting rooms are often right where the merchandise is sold, enclosed by a piece of fabric.
Perhaps not only David but also many other foreign visitors couldn't help but be surprised to see customers bargaining over a pair of counterfeit New Balance shoes or during peak hours traffic police clearing makeshift stalls on sidewalks and streets.
'When I arrived in Hanoi, I had a mix of conflicting emotions, eager to explore the goods here yet feeling a sense of naive fear of a stranger in a place far from home,' expressed David.
After a bit of surprise with the noisy atmosphere and somewhat chaotic and intricate traffic during peak hours, David had some interesting and unforgettable experiences shopping in Hanoi's Old Quarter, and he came up with some tips when shopping here:
Essential Vietnamese Shopping Vocabulary for Foreign Travelers
Knowing some basic Vietnamese words is crucial for foreign travelers when shopping in Vietnam, such as 'How much is this?' or the exclamation 'Oh my God' to express surprise when the seller asks for an 'astronomical' price... And if you're not interested in buying, you can always politely decline but try to maintain a friendly attitude with the seller by giving them a smile.
Be Prepared to Haggle
Except for supermarkets and large shopping centers, most stores in Hanoi's Old Quarter sell products at relatively high prices compared to the actual value, even though prices are displayed. In many cases, the shop owners determine prices based on their perception of customers. Customers who look sophisticated, especially foreigners, will be quoted higher prices than those who appear more ordinary.
'According to some of my friends in Vietnam, foreigners are considered 'cash cows' and therefore, sellers may demand prices 3-4 times higher than the actual value,' wrote David.
So, to avoid being ripped off, it's best to bargain if you find the prices unreasonable, or before making a purchase, consult with your friends or tour guide.
Shopping with a Local Companion
David had a valuable experience shopping in Hanoi with his tutor, who helped him bargain for a pair of shoes and learn more about shopping in Vietnam without being overcharged, so he could confidently shop alone for subsequent trips.
Of course, bargaining should usually only be applied to street vendors, small shops without price tags, and don't be surprised if the staff at the cosmetics counter at VinCom Shopping Center seem annoyed when you try to bargain for a bottle of Aqua di Gio perfume.
Compare and Check Prices Between Stores
Also sharing her shopping experience in Vietnam on Examiner, author Cassandra James wrote, 'One of the secrets to foreign travelers getting the most reasonable prices in Vietnam is to compare prices at several stores. The same product, however, can vary greatly in price at different stores.'
Exit When Necessary
James advises buyers to decisively walk away if they're not satisfied with the deal. For instance, if the seller insists on an exorbitant price and refuses to negotiate, the buyer can move on to another shop but should maintain a friendly attitude. Sometimes, the seller may chase after the customer and offer a more reasonable price that the customer can accept.
'Shopping in Vietnam requires patience and tact. Vietnamese sellers are more temperamental than those in many other Asian countries, and foreign tourists often face higher prices than locals because they are considered high-end customers. However, if you know how, foreign visitors can still buy goods at the most reasonable prices,' she shared.
According to Dantri.com.vn
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References: Mytour Travel Guide
