Shopping in Arab areas
Shopping in Arab areas in Israel and in the West Bank -- the currency is the NIS or US$. (Often JOD Jordaninan Dinar is gladly received)
The first price quoted is usually a trial balloon to begin a process of negotiation. Don't feel bad offering less-- this is part of the game. Just don't start the bargaining process unless you are willing to buy it at the price you offer. Many things in the souks are on offer at significantly inflated prices.
The first price quoted is usually a trial balloon to begin a process of negotiation. Don't feel bad offering less-- this is part of the game. Just don't start the bargaining process unless you are willing to buy it at the price you offer. Many things in the souks are on offer at significantly inflated prices.
Shopping in Israel
In Jewish areas of Israel, prices are usually quoted in NIS. Often US$ are fine. Credit Cards are accepted. Usually when dealing with Jewish merchants, the price marked is the price and bargaining is not the norm. Of course there are exceptions (especially in the souks in the Old City.
Usual Cautions for shopping
All over the world one thing is true: some merchants make claims that are not necessarily true. You really need to be sure you know what you are buying when it comes to valuable things like jewellery and antiques. When shopping in the souks -- exercise a significant degree of caution.
One person on one of our earlier pilgrimages bought a rug in Jericho that was " handmade pure silk" only to return home and learn it was in fact machine made of viscose.
One person on one of our earlier pilgrimages bought a rug in Jericho that was " handmade pure silk" only to return home and learn it was in fact machine made of viscose.