Know the Numbers! Shopping in Paris Tip #2

Tip #2 is about numbers!
When shopping in Paris or any country that you are not fluent in their language, I highly recommend that you at least learn the numbers...ie 1-10, and then the larger numbers such as 20, 25,30,35 and so on. Practice as much as you can.
There's always the chance that you still won't be able to bargain, but do what I always do....carry a calculator, a note pad and pencil, or at the very least a cell phone. So if you don't understand the price, hand them the calculator or a notepad...they know what you need to do. Remember the smile, and if you want to offer another lower price, write it down and hand it to them with a question mark on your face.

***  A note about bargaining..... never offer less than 20% off the original asking price!!! If you do, you have just unspokenly told them that their time, transportation (truck and gas) and their expertise are of no value! It is an insult. I've had it happen to me and that ends all negotiations. Be respectful. If their last price is not within your budget, say Merci and walk away. There will be about a 50% chance that once you start to walk away, they will say ok to your reasonable offer.

If you are able to communicate with them, and their price is still too high (tres cher) them tell that you are sorry, but the item is just not in your price range right now. More than likely they will ask you how much you want to spend.....tell them then. Only on rare times when I have done this has this worked.....but you do it with respect and whether you walk away with or without the treasure in hand you both save face.

So many dealers do know at least their numbers in English now. But like the Manners I talked about in the Tip #1, at least try and they will help you...after all, they want to practice what they know in English!

Any questions? Just ask!