This essay, by Preyahathai Aroonvanichporn, 16, a student at the NIST International School in Bangkok, Thailand, is one of the Top 10 winners of The Learning Network’s “How To” Informational Writing Contest.
How to Bargain Like a Pro in Thai Street Markets
The streets are always packed with tourists, the enticing scent of sizzling street food and the endless negotiations between vendors and customers. These tableaus create a sensory masterpiece: the Maeklong Railway Market. Walking through a Thai street market can feel overwhelming. But if you know its ways, you can leave with more than just souvenirs — you’ll walk away with the skill of bargaining like a real local.
Many believe that it’s simply asking “Lod dai mai krub/ka?” or “May I have a discount?” But real bargaining in a Thai market is an art that requires more than just words. “Bargaining is like cooking a good dish — you need to have patience and add the right ingredients at the right time,” says Khun Somchai, a local fruit vendor.
Start by browsing multiple stalls before showing interest in a product. Prices vary, and knowing the general cost gives you leverage. Never show too much excitement. If you grab an item too eagerly, the seller knows you’re hooked — and the price won’t budge. “When you see the same item being sold by various vendors, you can instantly conclude that the first shop you see is the most expensive,” says Somchai. By taking your time, you get a sense of the real value. Vendors are keen observers. If they see you return, they might be more willing to negotiate, knowing you’ve done your research.
Always let the seller make the first offer “50-60 percent of the asking price” — this starts the negotiation. Somchai advises that “Indecision can make the seller think, ‘they might leave.’” If they believe they’re about to lose a sale, they might offer one final price drop. But if they don’t, pretend to walk away. In many cases, the seller will call you back with a better deal. If they don’t? Move on.
Another strategy is “bundling.” “If you ask for a discount too directly, some sellers won’t budge.” But if you say, “Can I take two for 40 baht instead of 50?” then you have a chance.
To many like Somchai, “Bargaining is more than just getting a good deal, it’s a token from the heart of Thailand’s markets.” So when you leave the bustling streets, you’ll realize that the best souvenir isn’t in your bag — it’s the skill of bargaining like a Thai local that you will have for the rest of your life.