Markets
The BEST place to barter. You will find some of the largest outdoor markets at Kuta Art Market, Melasti Street Markets Legian, Ubud Markets and Sukawati Markets. Remember to bring cash as no market stalls have credit card facilities. You will find that there are hundreds of small shops, all selling similar items, a great place to try out your new found bartering skills. Wood carvings, silver wear, DVDs, T-shirts and sarongs are a few of the items laid out to tempt you. Generally the t-shirts are copies and therefore bring a cheaper price than the originals.The best selection of fabrics can be found in Jl Suluwesi in Denpasar.
Designer Stores
Stores such as Surf Brands, Reebok , Nike , Hugo Boss, Guess, Armani are just the tip of the iceberg for what's available in Kuta Square, Discovery Mall, Beach Walk, Galleria and Lippo Mall. Although there is NO bartering involved the prices offered are generally cheaper than Australia.
Supermarkets
Stock up on cheap toiletries at Hypermart Galleria, Carrefour Jl Sunset, Lippo Mall Jl Kartika Plaza.Shopping hours are usually between 10.00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. for department stores and supermarkets with shorter hours on Sundays.
.
Street Hawkers
If you are walking the streets and you do not want to be harassed by the street hawkers, avoid looking at their wares and avoid eye contact with them, It is more polite to say nothing and continue walking. Please remember, trying to sell things to tourists is a way of life in Bali so it is important that you accept this is the way things are and are prepared to be harassed somewhat. Fixed price shops are becoming more popular now and it is a good idea to visit one first so you know the prices before you start bartering at other shops.
Fixed Price Shops
-
Geneva Handicrafts – Jl Raya KerobokanBiaritz – Jl Sunset
-
KETUT'S – Jl. Saha Dewa Gg. Sorga No 2 (Garlic Lane)
-
MISS DEBBIE'S – Saha Dewa Street Legian
-
DIANNE'S – Kartika Plaza Street (opp Green Garden Hotel)
Or a guide to more upmarket fashion and homewares:
Shopping Tours
Or even better why not book a guided shopping tour throughNiki at THE BALI BUDDYhttp://thebalibuddy.com/category/shopping/
.
Bartering
If you have just arrived it is best to get a general idea of how much people are paying as the sellers are very quick to know who is a "newbie" in town and who isn't and will take advantage of the fact. Visit Ketut’s or Miss Debbie’s in Legian to find out the fixed price of items first. This way you will help avoid the first day rush to buy and then find you paid 2 to 3 times what you should have. A few tips for first time shoppers:
Negotiation is expected. First offered prices are often double or triple the real price.Don’t reveal this is your first trip to the island (even if it is)Have a clear price you are willing to pay before you start negotiatingKnowing a little Bahasa Indonesian will often reward you with a better price.Be aware shopkeepers do this for a living and are persistent and “athletic” negotiatorsGo early for best “Morning Price”If you think it’s a reasonable price, then do the deal.Remember that 10,000Rp is equal to approximately $1.00Aus.Watch the zero’s on your notes as it can be confusing.Be prepared to walk away.If you buy multiple items, you should be able to negotiate a lesser price.Maintain your sense of humor and be polite
Thank you and credit to the following contributors for this Bali information:
https://www.facebook.com/villatheo1?fref=nf
https://www.facebook.com/EverythingBali.com.au?fref=ts
https://www.facebook.com/villamataraz
There are many helpful groups on Facebook you can join/discuss and connect with fellow Bali lovers such as
Quick Navigation