IDLEWILD ADVENTURES
THAILAND DO'S AND DON'TS
A travel experience that just might be life changing™
In most cases, being polite and respectful will get you through a lot of situations. While
the rules can vary widely from culture to culture, most reasonable folks seem to
understand that you are at least trying to do the right thing, that being said, here are
some specifics about Thailand that may help you better respect the folks you'll be
visiting. Like anywhere, Thailand is a more pleasant place to visit if you are aware of
certain cultural norms. To assist you, the following are brief "Do's and Don'ts for
Thailand"
the rules can vary widely from culture to culture, most reasonable folks seem to
understand that you are at least trying to do the right thing, that being said, here are
some specifics about Thailand that may help you better respect the folks you'll be
visiting. Like anywhere, Thailand is a more pleasant place to visit if you are aware of
certain cultural norms. To assist you, the following are brief "Do's and Don'ts for
Thailand"
Do's
1. Do respect the Thai Royal Family - The monarchy is revered by all Thais and people will simply not
tolerate any lack of respect towards any members of the royal family past or present. Criticism of the
king and royal family is not just frowned upon in Thailand; it is against the law - a punishable offense
that is taken very seriously.
2. Do respect Thai Buddhism - Although Thais are very tolerant of all religions, they are by and large
Buddhist. Phrases such as "Buddhism is not a recognized religion where I come from" may be
factually true, but they will not endear you to your hosts.
3. Do carry a copy of your passport with you at all times.
4. Do expect Thais to speak directly - Although Thais try to avoid confrontation, they also have a habit
of speaking directly. For example, if they met you before and you have put on weight, expect Thais to
comment on it!
5. Do try some of the local cuisine - Although this may sound strange, it is now possible to exist in
Thailand without having to eat Thai food. If you do not try it, you will have missed out on a very
important part of Thai culture. Why go to Thailand to eat at McDonald's?
6. Do try and learn some of the local language (even if it is just the numbers) - You'll find Thailand a
much more enjoyable place if you do.
7. Do enjoy your stay - Thailand is very much what you make it!
8. Do learn the traditional Thai greeting - A Wai is the greeting preferred over hand shakes and you
do this by placing ones hands together in from of the chest like praying and then bow. If someone
greets you with a Wai, you should return this greeting.
9. Do wear sun screen - A severe sunburn can ruin your stay! Thailand has a tropical climate and you
can get over-exposed even on a cloudy day.
10. Do tip - Tipping in Thailand is generally common practice, although not to the extent or the amount
that is practiced in many western countries. If you feel you have received excellent service, by all
means leave a tip, it will be greatly appreciated. We recommend you tip your caddy at the golf course
around 200 - 300 baht.
1. Do respect the Thai Royal Family - The monarchy is revered by all Thais and people will simply not
tolerate any lack of respect towards any members of the royal family past or present. Criticism of the
king and royal family is not just frowned upon in Thailand; it is against the law - a punishable offense
that is taken very seriously.
2. Do respect Thai Buddhism - Although Thais are very tolerant of all religions, they are by and large
Buddhist. Phrases such as "Buddhism is not a recognized religion where I come from" may be
factually true, but they will not endear you to your hosts.
3. Do carry a copy of your passport with you at all times.
4. Do expect Thais to speak directly - Although Thais try to avoid confrontation, they also have a habit
of speaking directly. For example, if they met you before and you have put on weight, expect Thais to
comment on it!
5. Do try some of the local cuisine - Although this may sound strange, it is now possible to exist in
Thailand without having to eat Thai food. If you do not try it, you will have missed out on a very
important part of Thai culture. Why go to Thailand to eat at McDonald's?
6. Do try and learn some of the local language (even if it is just the numbers) - You'll find Thailand a
much more enjoyable place if you do.
7. Do enjoy your stay - Thailand is very much what you make it!
8. Do learn the traditional Thai greeting - A Wai is the greeting preferred over hand shakes and you
do this by placing ones hands together in from of the chest like praying and then bow. If someone
greets you with a Wai, you should return this greeting.
9. Do wear sun screen - A severe sunburn can ruin your stay! Thailand has a tropical climate and you
can get over-exposed even on a cloudy day.
10. Do tip - Tipping in Thailand is generally common practice, although not to the extent or the amount
that is practiced in many western countries. If you feel you have received excellent service, by all
means leave a tip, it will be greatly appreciated. We recommend you tip your caddy at the golf course
around 200 - 300 baht.
Don'ts
1. Don't touch any Thai on the head (even children) - The head is the highest part of the body and as
such is revered.
2. Don't put your feet on anything (especially the table or a pillow) - The feet are the lowest part of
the body and, as such, are seen as "dirty". This "don't" should also include don't walk in a house with
your shoes on.
3. Don't show public displays of affection or drunkenness - Thais don't like overt public displays of
affection (such as kissing in the street), nor do they like public displays of drunkenness.
4. Don't talk politics with Thais - First of all they are not interested in your political view, second of all
they won't want to put themselves in a situation where the conversation could turn controversial.
5. Don't lose your temper - This is extremely important! Losing your temper in Thailand is a sign of
losing control and is frowned upon.
6. Don't shout at Thais in English - Just because they don't understand you doesn't mean they are
stupid and shouting at a Thai, even in English, is going to result in completely the opposite end to
what you intended!
7. Don't drink or brush your teeth with tap water, even from the hotel - There is plenty of bottled
water available.
8. Don't eat food from a local street vendor or food made specifically for the locals - Their body is
accustomed to the water and spices used. You may think you can handle the hot spices, but you are
almost assured to experience stomach discomfort and diarrhea. You can get Imodium at any local
drug store.
9. Don't be surprised if you are addressed by your first name, e.g. Mr. Bob or Ms. Mary, instead of
your last name - This is because Thais refer to one another in this manner.
10. Don't think that Thai women are "easily available" - No matter what you read or hear. Though
around 1% of the female population is working in the sex industry, this also means that 99% are not
working there! You can get yourself in big trouble if you offend a woman in this way. Her husband may
find he should take revenge, which could be very unpleasant for you.
11. Don't be Naive - Thailand is a wonderful place and there is a reason it is called the land of smiles.
The Thai are very friendly people. But be aware that there is crime in Thailand just like any other
country. Observe common sense precautions regarding personal safety and the safety of your
belongings. Walking alone in the dark or deserted areas is not recommended. Be sure that all your
valuables are protected. Never let your belongings out of sight if possible.
12. Don't get involved with drugs - Penalties for drug offenses are severe in Thailand. Don't take any
packages through Thai customs for anybody! If you are caught carrying drugs, you risk the death
penalty or life in prison. And prisons in Thailand are not exactly like the Hilton.
1. Don't touch any Thai on the head (even children) - The head is the highest part of the body and as
such is revered.
2. Don't put your feet on anything (especially the table or a pillow) - The feet are the lowest part of
the body and, as such, are seen as "dirty". This "don't" should also include don't walk in a house with
your shoes on.
3. Don't show public displays of affection or drunkenness - Thais don't like overt public displays of
affection (such as kissing in the street), nor do they like public displays of drunkenness.
4. Don't talk politics with Thais - First of all they are not interested in your political view, second of all
they won't want to put themselves in a situation where the conversation could turn controversial.
5. Don't lose your temper - This is extremely important! Losing your temper in Thailand is a sign of
losing control and is frowned upon.
6. Don't shout at Thais in English - Just because they don't understand you doesn't mean they are
stupid and shouting at a Thai, even in English, is going to result in completely the opposite end to
what you intended!
7. Don't drink or brush your teeth with tap water, even from the hotel - There is plenty of bottled
water available.
8. Don't eat food from a local street vendor or food made specifically for the locals - Their body is
accustomed to the water and spices used. You may think you can handle the hot spices, but you are
almost assured to experience stomach discomfort and diarrhea. You can get Imodium at any local
drug store.
9. Don't be surprised if you are addressed by your first name, e.g. Mr. Bob or Ms. Mary, instead of
your last name - This is because Thais refer to one another in this manner.
10. Don't think that Thai women are "easily available" - No matter what you read or hear. Though
around 1% of the female population is working in the sex industry, this also means that 99% are not
working there! You can get yourself in big trouble if you offend a woman in this way. Her husband may
find he should take revenge, which could be very unpleasant for you.
11. Don't be Naive - Thailand is a wonderful place and there is a reason it is called the land of smiles.
The Thai are very friendly people. But be aware that there is crime in Thailand just like any other
country. Observe common sense precautions regarding personal safety and the safety of your
belongings. Walking alone in the dark or deserted areas is not recommended. Be sure that all your
valuables are protected. Never let your belongings out of sight if possible.
12. Don't get involved with drugs - Penalties for drug offenses are severe in Thailand. Don't take any
packages through Thai customs for anybody! If you are caught carrying drugs, you risk the death
penalty or life in prison. And prisons in Thailand are not exactly like the Hilton.
THAI HELPFUL PHRASES
Thai people are extremely polite and hospitable. When traveling in Thailand, people will
appreciate it if you do attempt to speak Thai (no matter how badly!). Here are just a few
basic Thai phrases that are useful for every traveler in Thailand to know.
IMPORTANT: It is considered polite to always end your sentences with "kha" (ka) if you
are a woman, and Khrap" (crop) if you are a man. If you can remember to always do
this, you will be forgiven many other language fumbles.
appreciate it if you do attempt to speak Thai (no matter how badly!). Here are just a few
basic Thai phrases that are useful for every traveler in Thailand to know.
IMPORTANT: It is considered polite to always end your sentences with "kha" (ka) if you
are a woman, and Khrap" (crop) if you are a man. If you can remember to always do
this, you will be forgiven many other language fumbles.
BASIC
Hello - Sawat dii (sao-what-dee) remember to add Kha (ka) if you are a woman or Khrap (crop) if you
are a man
I cannot speak Thai - Poot passat Thai mai dai (poot-passat-thai-my-dy)
Please - Karuna (ka-roo-na)
Thank you - Khap Khun (cop-coon)
Yes - Chai (chai)
No - Mai chai (my-chai)
No, thank you - Mai ao khap khun (my-ow-cop-coon)
I do not understand - Mai khao jai (my-cow-jai)
Where is....? - ....yoo tee nai (....you-tea-nai)
Going Traveling - Pai teeo (pay-tee-o)
Where is the rest room? - Hong nam yoo tee nai (hong-nam-you-tee-nay)
Which way? - Pai taang nai (pei-tang-nai)
Stop - Yut (yut)
Goodbye - La gon (la-gon)
How Much? - Kee Baht (key-baht)
Too expensive - Paeng Pai (paeng-pai)
Can you discount it a little? - Lot rakka dai mai (lot-rakka-dai-mai)
FOOD & DRINK
Water - Naam (na-am)
Beer - Beah (be-ah)
Coffee - Kafae (ca-fay)
Tea - Cha (cha)
Vegetable - Pak (pak)
Rice - Kao (cow)
I do not eat meat - Mai gin nua, paak yang deeo (my-gin-noo-a, paak-yang-deeo)
I like it - Chob maak (chob-maak)
Not spicy or hot - Mai ow prik (my-ow-prik)
Hello - Sawat dii (sao-what-dee) remember to add Kha (ka) if you are a woman or Khrap (crop) if you
are a man
I cannot speak Thai - Poot passat Thai mai dai (poot-passat-thai-my-dy)
Please - Karuna (ka-roo-na)
Thank you - Khap Khun (cop-coon)
Yes - Chai (chai)
No - Mai chai (my-chai)
No, thank you - Mai ao khap khun (my-ow-cop-coon)
I do not understand - Mai khao jai (my-cow-jai)
Where is....? - ....yoo tee nai (....you-tea-nai)
Going Traveling - Pai teeo (pay-tee-o)
Where is the rest room? - Hong nam yoo tee nai (hong-nam-you-tee-nay)
Which way? - Pai taang nai (pei-tang-nai)
Stop - Yut (yut)
Goodbye - La gon (la-gon)
How Much? - Kee Baht (key-baht)
Too expensive - Paeng Pai (paeng-pai)
Can you discount it a little? - Lot rakka dai mai (lot-rakka-dai-mai)
FOOD & DRINK
Water - Naam (na-am)
Beer - Beah (be-ah)
Coffee - Kafae (ca-fay)
Tea - Cha (cha)
Vegetable - Pak (pak)
Rice - Kao (cow)
I do not eat meat - Mai gin nua, paak yang deeo (my-gin-noo-a, paak-yang-deeo)
I like it - Chob maak (chob-maak)
Not spicy or hot - Mai ow prik (my-ow-prik)
THAILAND SHOPPING ADVICE
A wide variety of local souvenirs are available at reasonable prices in Thailand. For
those who do not have much time and do not want to bother with bargaining, products
are also available at fixed prices in department stores. Bargains can be done at small
shops or with street vendors. Popular items include silk and leather products,
silverware, ceramics, and items carved out of softwood. Thailand's jewelry is renowned
for its craftsmanship and relatively low prices. However, necessary precautions should
be taken before buying jewelry:
Disregard all strangers' offers of free assistance or services. Shopkeepers pay a
10-30% commission to people who bring them customers and the price will be
increased accordingly.
Compare and negotiate the price of jewelry at different shops before buying.
Note that any claim made by a shopkeeper that purchases can be refunded at Thai
embassies, consulates, or other government agencies abroad is false.
Make sure that all documents such as receipts, quality certificates, and credit card slips
clearly indicate the name and address of the shop and the full purchase price.
those who do not have much time and do not want to bother with bargaining, products
are also available at fixed prices in department stores. Bargains can be done at small
shops or with street vendors. Popular items include silk and leather products,
silverware, ceramics, and items carved out of softwood. Thailand's jewelry is renowned
for its craftsmanship and relatively low prices. However, necessary precautions should
be taken before buying jewelry:
Disregard all strangers' offers of free assistance or services. Shopkeepers pay a
10-30% commission to people who bring them customers and the price will be
increased accordingly.
Compare and negotiate the price of jewelry at different shops before buying.
Note that any claim made by a shopkeeper that purchases can be refunded at Thai
embassies, consulates, or other government agencies abroad is false.
Make sure that all documents such as receipts, quality certificates, and credit card slips
clearly indicate the name and address of the shop and the full purchase price.
It is important to learn Thai
numbers if you want to be
serious about shopping in
Thailand. Prices in department
stores are marked but you will
have to ask the price in outdoor
markets then try to make it
cheaper!
numbers if you want to be
serious about shopping in
Thailand. Prices in department
stores are marked but you will
have to ask the price in outdoor
markets then try to make it
cheaper!
Numbers
0 Soon 20 Yee sib
1 Nueng 30 Saam sib
2 Song 40 See sib
3 Saam 50 Har sib
4 See 60 Hok sib
5 Har 70 Jed sib
6 Hok 80 Paed sib
7 Jed 90 Gao sib
8 Paed 100 Nueng roi
9 Gao 200 Song roi
10 Sib 1,000 Nueng pan
0 Soon 20 Yee sib
1 Nueng 30 Saam sib
2 Song 40 See sib
3 Saam 50 Har sib
4 See 60 Hok sib
5 Har 70 Jed sib
6 Hok 80 Paed sib
7 Jed 90 Gao sib
8 Paed 100 Nueng roi
9 Gao 200 Song roi
10 Sib 1,000 Nueng pan
Co. Headquarters
PO. Box 239
Rockaway Beach, OR 97136
Ph: (503) 989-8313
PO. Box 239
Rockaway Beach, OR 97136
Ph: (503) 989-8313
©2009 Copyright Idlewild
Enterprises, LLC
dba Idlewild Adventures
All rights Reserved
Enterprises, LLC
dba Idlewild Adventures
All rights Reserved
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Once you have mastered from one to ten, the rest is easy.
Number's Unit - 10: Sib, 100: Roi, 1,000: Pan, 10,000: Muen, 100,000: Saen,
1,000,000: Laan
Example: 45: See sib har, 1,312: Nueng pan saam roi sib song
Number's Unit - 10: Sib, 100: Roi, 1,000: Pan, 10,000: Muen, 100,000: Saen,
1,000,000: Laan
Example: 45: See sib har, 1,312: Nueng pan saam roi sib song
MEXICO DO'S AND DON'TS
Most tourists in Mexico come from the U.S. and Canada, and many parts of
Mexico are very used to tourism. However, out of respect for Mexico and its
people please be aware of certain cultural norms. To assist you, the following
are brief "Do's and Don'ts for Mexico"
Mexico are very used to tourism. However, out of respect for Mexico and its
people please be aware of certain cultural norms. To assist you, the following
are brief "Do's and Don'ts for Mexico"
Do's
1. Do practice general safety precautions - As a tourist you may be targeted by thief's and
pickpockets. So wear the strap of your purse around you head or put your wallet in a front pocket.
2. Do beware of scams - In beach resort areas you may be approached with offers of attending a
timeshare presentation. Some of these are legitimate and others are not. Unless you are really
interested in a timeshare, skip the free meal or excursion offered along with a timeshare
presentation. The freebie isn't worth the time and annoyance of dealing with high-pressure sales
tactics.
3. Do keep an open mine and go with the flow - One of the joys of traveling to a different country is
seeing how things are done differently. In some cases these may seem positive and in other
situations they may drive you up the wall. The important thing is to take it as a learning experience.
Enjoy yourself and have a good time.
4. Do be fashionably late! - When visiting someone's home thirty minutes late is appropriate.
Arriving early or even on time is considered rude.
5. Do carry a copy of your passport with you at all times.
6. Do try some of the local cuisine - Mexican cuisine is fabulous when prepared by a local, each
region of Mexico will bring you a different treat. Caution: Don't eat from a street vendor as you may
get Montezuma's revenge..not fun.
7. Do understand some of their customs - Did you know that only men give toasts in Mexican
culture? Or make sure you say "salud!" when someone sneezes. To not do so is considered rude.
8. Do try and learn some of the local language - You'll find Mexico a much more enjoyable place if
you do, plus you will have more luck bartering for souvenirs.
9. Do enjoy your stay - Mexico is very much what you make it!
10. Do wear sun screen - A severe sunburn can ruin your stay! In Mexico's climate you can get
over-exposed even on a cloudy day.
11. Do tip - Tipping in Mexico is done in the same fashion that you are used to in the U.S. or
Canada.
1. Do practice general safety precautions - As a tourist you may be targeted by thief's and
pickpockets. So wear the strap of your purse around you head or put your wallet in a front pocket.
2. Do beware of scams - In beach resort areas you may be approached with offers of attending a
timeshare presentation. Some of these are legitimate and others are not. Unless you are really
interested in a timeshare, skip the free meal or excursion offered along with a timeshare
presentation. The freebie isn't worth the time and annoyance of dealing with high-pressure sales
tactics.
3. Do keep an open mine and go with the flow - One of the joys of traveling to a different country is
seeing how things are done differently. In some cases these may seem positive and in other
situations they may drive you up the wall. The important thing is to take it as a learning experience.
Enjoy yourself and have a good time.
4. Do be fashionably late! - When visiting someone's home thirty minutes late is appropriate.
Arriving early or even on time is considered rude.
5. Do carry a copy of your passport with you at all times.
6. Do try some of the local cuisine - Mexican cuisine is fabulous when prepared by a local, each
region of Mexico will bring you a different treat. Caution: Don't eat from a street vendor as you may
get Montezuma's revenge..not fun.
7. Do understand some of their customs - Did you know that only men give toasts in Mexican
culture? Or make sure you say "salud!" when someone sneezes. To not do so is considered rude.
8. Do try and learn some of the local language - You'll find Mexico a much more enjoyable place if
you do, plus you will have more luck bartering for souvenirs.
9. Do enjoy your stay - Mexico is very much what you make it!
10. Do wear sun screen - A severe sunburn can ruin your stay! In Mexico's climate you can get
over-exposed even on a cloudy day.
11. Do tip - Tipping in Mexico is done in the same fashion that you are used to in the U.S. or
Canada.
Don'ts
1. Don't drink or brush your teeth with tap water - If you heed nothing else, heed this! Even if there
is a sign in your hotel proclaiming that the tap water is purified, don't drink it, it's the pipes carrying the
water that are the problem. You should buy bottled purified water to drink. It's inexpensive and
available on virtually every street corner. Most hotels provide bottles of water for your consuption in the
hotel.
2. Don't eat any fresh fruit or vegetables without disinfecting them first - The same reasons you
don't drink the water are why you don't eat fresh items.....it's the water that they were rinsed in that can
get you. You can buy special produce disinfectant at the store.
3. Don't wear shorts if you wish to blend in- Aside from beaches and northern areas, shorts are
seldom worn by Mexicans.
4. Don't talk politics with Mexican's - First of all they are not interested in your political view, second
of all they won't want to put themselves in a situation where the conversation could turn controversial.
5. Don't lose your temper - This is extremely important! Losing your temper in Mexico is a sign of
losing control and is frowned upon. Basically don't act like the "ugly foreigner".
6. Don't shout at Mexican's in English - Just because they don't understand you doesn't mean they
are stupid and shouting at a Mexican, even in English, is going to result in completely the opposite end
to what you intended!
7. Don't be Naive - Observe common sense precautions regarding personal safety and the safety of
your belongings. Walking alone in the dark or deserted areas is not recommended. Be sure that all
your valuables are protected. Never let your belongings out of sight if possible.
8. Don't get involved with drugs - No need to go into details, Mexican prisons are not like a trip to your
local country club....it's not worth the risk.
1. Don't drink or brush your teeth with tap water - If you heed nothing else, heed this! Even if there
is a sign in your hotel proclaiming that the tap water is purified, don't drink it, it's the pipes carrying the
water that are the problem. You should buy bottled purified water to drink. It's inexpensive and
available on virtually every street corner. Most hotels provide bottles of water for your consuption in the
hotel.
2. Don't eat any fresh fruit or vegetables without disinfecting them first - The same reasons you
don't drink the water are why you don't eat fresh items.....it's the water that they were rinsed in that can
get you. You can buy special produce disinfectant at the store.
3. Don't wear shorts if you wish to blend in- Aside from beaches and northern areas, shorts are
seldom worn by Mexicans.
4. Don't talk politics with Mexican's - First of all they are not interested in your political view, second
of all they won't want to put themselves in a situation where the conversation could turn controversial.
5. Don't lose your temper - This is extremely important! Losing your temper in Mexico is a sign of
losing control and is frowned upon. Basically don't act like the "ugly foreigner".
6. Don't shout at Mexican's in English - Just because they don't understand you doesn't mean they
are stupid and shouting at a Mexican, even in English, is going to result in completely the opposite end
to what you intended!
7. Don't be Naive - Observe common sense precautions regarding personal safety and the safety of
your belongings. Walking alone in the dark or deserted areas is not recommended. Be sure that all
your valuables are protected. Never let your belongings out of sight if possible.
8. Don't get involved with drugs - No need to go into details, Mexican prisons are not like a trip to your
local country club....it's not worth the risk.
SPANISH HELPFUL PHRASES
Most employees at the motels, shops, and restaurants in Mexico speak
English, however it is helpful to know some common phrases (especially
since not all taxi drivers speak fluent English).
English, however it is helpful to know some common phrases (especially
since not all taxi drivers speak fluent English).
BASIC
Hello - Hola
Good morning - Buenos días.
Good evening - Buenos noches.
Please - Por favor
Thank you - Gracias
You're welcome - De nada
I don't understand - No comprendo.
I have a reservation - Tengo una reservación.
Do you accept credit cards? - ¿Acepta tarjetas de crédito?
Do you accept traveler's checks? - ¿Acepta usted cheques de viajero?
Where is the bathroom? - ¿Donde está el baño?
Do you speak English? - ¿Habla usted inglés?
Keep the change - Déjelo para usted.
How much? - ¿Cuánto es?
How far? - ¿A qué distancia?
Can you help me? - ¿Puede usted ayudarme?
Waiter/Waitress - Mesero/Mesera
FOOD & DRINK
Water - agua
Beer - cerveza,
Coffee - café
Tea - té
Not Spicy or Hot - no picante o caliente
With salt - con la sal
Without salt - sin la sal
Hello - Hola
Good morning - Buenos días.
Good evening - Buenos noches.
Please - Por favor
Thank you - Gracias
You're welcome - De nada
I don't understand - No comprendo.
I have a reservation - Tengo una reservación.
Do you accept credit cards? - ¿Acepta tarjetas de crédito?
Do you accept traveler's checks? - ¿Acepta usted cheques de viajero?
Where is the bathroom? - ¿Donde está el baño?
Do you speak English? - ¿Habla usted inglés?
Keep the change - Déjelo para usted.
How much? - ¿Cuánto es?
How far? - ¿A qué distancia?
Can you help me? - ¿Puede usted ayudarme?
Waiter/Waitress - Mesero/Mesera
FOOD & DRINK
Water - agua
Beer - cerveza,
Coffee - café
Tea - té
Not Spicy or Hot - no picante o caliente
With salt - con la sal
Without salt - sin la sal
MEXICO SHOPPING ADVICE
People who visit Mexico rate shopping at the local markets as one of the most
rewarding travel experiences they encounter. Mexican traders do love a good
barter, but beware – if they feel you are trying to devalue their goods too much,
they will become upset and may even refuse to trade with you.
Bargaining and barter are common activities in Mexico, especially at markets and
artifact stores and handicraft workshops. Never accept the first price you're
offered, but be realistic with your offers, and don't become too aggressive with
your position.
Speaking Spanish - If you speak Spanish (even broken Spanish) you stand a
much better chance of getting a better a deal on your purchases. This is another
good reason to Learn Spanish in preparation for your next visit to Mexico.
Markets and Street Traders - Mexican market traders are usually polite people
who enjoy a good trade negotiation but, equally, they may become offended if
you are too obstinate and will simply cease bargaining with you completely. Keep
in mind that the people selling arts, crafts and artifacts are generally poor
artisans making a simple living and often supporting a family. Some may also be
the creators of the wares they are offering for sale, so any deep devaluation of
their work might be taken personally, too.
Department Stores, Malls - Department stores and large (chain) hotels will not
barter with you - you'll have more luck bartering with the check-out assistant of
your local supermarket!
Taxis - Some taxis are not metered (especially in small provincial towns) - so
strike a bargain with your price before you get in.
rewarding travel experiences they encounter. Mexican traders do love a good
barter, but beware – if they feel you are trying to devalue their goods too much,
they will become upset and may even refuse to trade with you.
Bargaining and barter are common activities in Mexico, especially at markets and
artifact stores and handicraft workshops. Never accept the first price you're
offered, but be realistic with your offers, and don't become too aggressive with
your position.
Speaking Spanish - If you speak Spanish (even broken Spanish) you stand a
much better chance of getting a better a deal on your purchases. This is another
good reason to Learn Spanish in preparation for your next visit to Mexico.
Markets and Street Traders - Mexican market traders are usually polite people
who enjoy a good trade negotiation but, equally, they may become offended if
you are too obstinate and will simply cease bargaining with you completely. Keep
in mind that the people selling arts, crafts and artifacts are generally poor
artisans making a simple living and often supporting a family. Some may also be
the creators of the wares they are offering for sale, so any deep devaluation of
their work might be taken personally, too.
Department Stores, Malls - Department stores and large (chain) hotels will not
barter with you - you'll have more luck bartering with the check-out assistant of
your local supermarket!
Taxis - Some taxis are not metered (especially in small provincial towns) - so
strike a bargain with your price before you get in.
We hope you found these Adventure tips helpful. The experience you get on our Thailand and
Mexico Adventures will be more pleasant if you keep some of these tips in mind when roaming
around and mixing with local culture. Remember we want your Adventure with us to be "A travel
experience that just might be life changing".
Mexico Adventures will be more pleasant if you keep some of these tips in mind when roaming
around and mixing with local culture. Remember we want your Adventure with us to be "A travel
experience that just might be life changing".