Traveling and Haggling in Morocco

Do you avoid cutthroat department-store sales even in a recession? Are flea markets your idea of a bad day in the park? Does the only auction you're interested in come with a paddle and Christie's Specialist that does most of your bidding legwork? You may avoid haggling in everyday life, but while on summer vacation, going shopping often means going to the much-dreaded bargaining table.

You'll likely face the inevitable at an antique shop, carpet dealer or jeweler with merchandise you know you can't get back home. But instead of just throwing out a number or paying what they ask, there's a more qualified approach to the art of haggling discovered in the world's most torrential bargaining waters: Marrakech, Morocco. That's where the city's top carpet souks negotiate their way to a deal that will make you a better vacation bargainer.

When visiting Morocco, hone your haggling skills. You'll need them when buying handmade wares.

10. Do your homework: Your work begins before you've left home. Research what type of carpet you're looking for and what the equivalent item costs in your hometown. Our research led us to L.A.'s Woven Accents and Mansour, respected high-end carpet retailers. The experience allowed us to see examples of authentic Moroccan flat-woven and knotted pile rugs derived from sheep's wool.

9. Fight with the best: Sure, you're interested in Morocco, but you arrive in Marrakech with carpets on your mind. While wooly Berber rugs are available throughout the medina, U.S.-based luxury resellers and celebrity buyers flock to La Porte d'Or and Chateaux des Souks for the best. Each souk is arranged along a congested strip, with second-floor or basement showrooms outfitted in plush sofas and 10-person staff ready to unroll. La Porte d'Or offers the added perk of celebrity photos David and Victoria Beckham, and Elton John.