Angelica’s Corner: Bartering for Prices

The thing I may miss most from the US of A (other than some wardrobe options) is set prices. Everything we buy can be negotiated. We’ve gotten better at this although it now seems set in our relationship that I am to play the bad cop. The one to say to the Konverse woman who used her choice of stitching instead of Kevin’s, “Madame, who is wearing the shoes? You or him? You should have made what he asked.” My recent secret weapon- find the shop where the owner’s neighbor or cousin is watching while he is at dinner. This guy isn’t interested in spending the time discussing what price is, or is not considered “happy hour” here in Thailand. I found this man, and I think I finally came out ahead. I will find more of these shop-watchers before the end of the trip. 20 baht for water? I think not…