Ho Chi Minh City Shopping Tips by TravelChick67

Name of Shop: Stores & Markets

I've mentioned before how most of the vendors prefer you to pay in US dollars but, what we found interesting, was the extreme interest of one lady that we pay with a US $100 bill.

We were haggling for robes and such with a vendor at the Ben Thanh Market and were buying quite a bit from her so hubby was trying to get a better deal. Naturally, we were tourists so we knew we were paying the "high price" but as the negotiation went on, it was clear that she wanted US dollars and not Dong.

Then, as it progressed a little further, we discoverd she not only wanted US dollars, she wanted a US $100 bill. "no 20's!" she said. Hubby used this to our advantage and ended up telling her that if she'd give us the whole lot for $100US we'd pay with a $100 bill.

Worked like a charm. Rather than only getting a 20-30% we walked away with a 47% discount by paying her with a C note.

So, keep this in mind when making larger purchases at the market. $100 bills get a premium beyond their simple monetary worth.

What To Buy: Nice robes with dragons on the back!

What To Pay: That's determined by your bargaining skills :)

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Directions: Ben Thanh Market

Name of Shop: Stores & Markets

The Ben Thanh market is a busy, bustling place. It's a bit hot and stuffy as well but, being that is is under a roof, you can at least count on the fact that the sun won't be beating down on your head while you shop.

There are certainly tourists at this famous landmark but there are plenty of locals as well. It's a great place to soak up a little culture as you bargain for mother-of-pearl inlaid purses and horn soup spoons.

What To Buy: You can buy all types of items here.

Coffee, spices, shoes, purses, kitchen items, plates, spoons, pans, clothing, fabric, sunglasses, watches, robes, junk toys, etc.

What To Pay: As far pricing goes, anything is possible. Well, except zero of course! One of the keys to striking a good deal is the willingness to walk away. Even if you just LOVE the item in question, you must not let on. Be casual, be cool. Otherwise, if they smell blood, you're dinner!

Always smile when haggling and never look at the item you really want first. Look at a few other things and then casually pick it up and ask the price.

I have a longer tip on haggling listed in my travelogue section, here's the address...

http://www.virtualtourist.com/m/tt/4e42f/#TL

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