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Shopping :

Bargaining is a popular practice in many countries outside of Europe and North America, specially when the shopkeepers price the products well over the normal retail price.

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If you have a guide : be aware that in most cases the guide is claiming a percentage to the shopkeeper (up to 30%), reducing your bargaining possibility.

​Always ask for bills when you purchase valuable goods, as the entire transaction is legal and transparent so that you may claim later in case of problem.

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Be aware that if some countries you can't export antiquities, even bought legally in a shop (check the country policy) and also that some shops are providing fakes antiquities, jewels, ivory, precious stones... with certificates.  For valuable purchases, take the time for reflexion and get informations about the shop reputation. And if you are not aware of the rates in your own country for expensive goods (jewels, precious stones, watches..), you will probably pay more in another country and in that case : shop in 2 steps : have a look, check rates on internet and come back if it's a good deal. Many countries are selling precious stones and the price depends of the quality of the stone (size, color, transparency, defaults..) and it's very difficult if you are not an expert of stones. If a stone if too perfect (saphire..) it might be a real saphire but industrial making and in that case, it's very cheap (see also internet).

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Don't believe to miracles : if somebody is proposing you a real attractive rate for a valuable good, it's very probably a fake.

 

Also be aware that globalization is affecting the "handicrafts" market in many countries : today the same artefacts are sold on many continents or in many countries. If you like an item and if there is many similar items in the shop or in other shops : be sure it's an industrial product probably made in Asia, even if the vendor said it's locally made. So it's up to you to make your own idea and decide if you want to buy or not.

 

If you are carrying artefacts : be aware that many countries have very strict rules about biosecurity. Some artefacts, considered as unsafe (a wood statue might contain worms or insects...) and can be refused at the airport at your final destination or in any airport during your travel. Some countries are proposing some fumigation to "clean" artefacts and biosecurity certificates. Also be aware it's not allowed to introduce "alive" food like fruits, vegetables, cheese, meat.. in most countries for the same reasons.