Browsing and shopping in the many markets in Thailand can be a lot of fun, in fact for many people, it is the highlight of their trip. We have compiled a list of eleven useful tips that can help you get more enjoyment out of your market adventure.

Don't take the first price.

• Vendors will most certainly initially quote you an inflated price which is well beyond the item's real value. Start by asking for the vendor's best price, then counter with an offer that is half or even two thirds less. The vendor will feign shock and offence, but it is all part of the negotiation. Don't be afraid to start to walk away if they refuse to lower the price at all, you would be surprised how fast the price drops if they see you are about to leave without buying anything.

Do know the value of the merchandise.

• Take your time and look around at a number of different shops, taking note of the quality of the goods and the prices quoted. If you can, take notes and return towards the end of the day. The best bargains can be had just before a vendor closes shop.

Do look for reasons to get a discount.

• Check all items for defects or imperfections. If you can live with any such imperfections, bring these to the attention of the vendor and use such defects as a way to lower the price.
  

Do carry small denominations.

• It can become quite awkward to haggle the price down, then pull out a large denomination bill to pay. It also provides the vendor with an opportunity to claim that they don't have sufficient change and round up the price.

Don't accept local warranty deals.

• Some vendors will tell you that electronics warranties are accepted overseas, when in fact very few are. Non-valid warranties are a popular way for unscrupulous vendors to jack up prices.

Do stay alert.

• Crowded markets are hotbeds for pickpockets. Leave all valuables behind and carry any cash and credit cards in front pockets where they are generally harder to access. Camera bags and purses are also vulnerable.

Do go with a local.

• If you are doing some big ticket wholesale shopping, bringing along a trusted local can be a great advantage. A local can bargain in the language and have a good idea of the real value of the goods.

Do learn some of the language.

• Just about every vendor will appreciate a foreigner who has taken the time to learn some of their native tongue. Basic expressions like, "how much", "very expensive", and "discount" are always good to learn, but don't forget the polite greetings and thanks which invite goodwill. Plus, if you can sound fluent enough, they may think you are an expat living there and offer you a better price.

Don't get upset.

• Bargaining can sometimes become frustrating if a vendor refuses to come down in price and a buyer suspects that they are being taken advantage of. In Thailand, a hot temper will almost always get you nowhere and some vendors have been known to refuse to deal with disgruntled shoppers in any way at all.

Have fun with it.

• Smile, enjoy the experience, keep the negotiations lighthearted. Most vendors appreciate a shopper who is polite, respectful and kind and may reward you with a better deal.