Traveling and Haggling in Morocco

8. Safety not in numbers: Keep your entourage to a minimum. Arriving with a group of friends or children will distract your negotiating. Keep your shopping group no larger than you and your spouse (or one other person) while agreeing that only one person will be doing the bargaining. The surest way to let on that you're willing to pay more is a chatty entourage telling you "that's such a good deal" when you know otherwise. Additionally, don't arrive with your local guide regardless of how well recommended they come. Guides are notorious for working deals with local shops that result in a commission.

7. Don't dress to impress: While in Marrakech, it's best to look as dumpy as possible when trying to score a bargain. White T-shirts and shorts work best with a pair of running shoes. Whatever you do, strip yourself of expensive watches and jewelry.

6. Don't be swooned: As soon as you enter the carpet showroom, you're no longer on home turf. The staff will offer you mint tea or water, which comes with its own elaborate presentation created to take time and oblige you to spend. Keep in mind that if you don't buy a carpet, you may be asked to pay for the tea, which is why it's best to keep the beverages for later. As soon as you are seated, the salesmen will engage you in conversation aimed at finding your spending bracket. Keep your answers as vague as possible and simply state what type, color and size of carpet you are looking for as the show begins.