Casablanca Market Shopping Tips
May 24th, 2007 by Racquel Balao-as
My shopping experiences at the Casablanca market were so exciting and unforgettable. I can’t fight the urge to write another entry about it! This time, it was about my encounter with the market vendors. My Moroccan friend, a friendly guy I met at the hotel where I’m staying, knows the nitty-gritty on shopping at the city market. In fact, he gave me a few tips on bargaining with these native sellers and I am really excited to share those tips to you. So, here goes.

My friend’s first advice is to be patient. Actually, that’s another reason why he brought me to the Casablanca market as early as he could. He said that it will take a great deal of time before the buyer and seller can both agree at a price. These vendors are good observers and if they noticed that you seem satisfied with the given price, you can’t avail of the discounts anymore. Make it appear you are a little hesitant and ask to lower the price. If you get lucky, you just might end up buying a product that costs half of its original price.
The second advice is to be nice. Moroccan vendors give in easily when they find that their customers are nice and considerate. When the seller offered you a cup of Moroccan mint tea, take it because that means they appreciate your good attitude. Keep smiling even if the bargaining process takes too long. And if you are satisfied with the price and the product, give them a simple token of appreciation. A pen, candy, or anything of little value can do. They will remember you for it. Trust me, in your next visit to the Casablanca market, you will not find it hard anymore to haggle with the same sellers.
5 Responses to “Casablanca Market Shopping Tips”
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Very interesting blog. Great photos. And great to see Casablanca in modern times. Here’s lookin at you.
I NEED to go travelling again! Lucklily I am soon going to Italy
i know haggling usualy gives you the better price, but I just dont know how to do it.. i feel so uncomfortable.. And I hate it, cause there are so many things I would like to buy! Although my favorite market is in Marrakech!
Hey,
I am planning for a trip there - I think these tips would come handy…
Great post buddy..
[…] Ethics: “When the seller offered you a cup of Moroccan mint tea, take it because that means they appreciate your good attitude. Keep smiling even if the bargaining process takes too long. And if you are satisfied with the price and the product, give them a simple token of appreciation. A pen, candy, or anything of little value can do. They will remember you for it.” […]