Playa is a fun town, and there is no shortage of shops in its downtown area! There are many bright and attractive stores that will catch your attention and make you open your wallet. How do you choose which place to go? How and when do you haggle? Read this article and prepare to be handsomely rewarded for your effort!

Tip #1: Get ready for aggressive shopkeepers while walking down the street! They are eager to get your business. They will call out to you and do virtually anything to get your attention. They will even come out and display their items right in front of you. If you show any interest in their shop, they will continue to push product after product onto you, hoping that you will take a bite. Don't seem over-enthused by anything.

Tip #2: if you see something you like, don't buy it right away. Many of the stores have the same items and the prices are different in all of them. Shop around a little and don't consider purchasing anything until you've priced it out at least three places (or can't find it anywhere else).

Tip #3: Most stores do not price their items. You can ask the clerk and he'll quote some price (usually off the top of their head). You can easily talk them down 20-30% without breaking a sweat. Start by lowballing the price ... they expect you to do this and will make quite a fuss about it. Don't worry about hurting their feelings, they know that this is how the game is played, and they are certainly much better at you than it!

Tip #4: Don't fall in love with anything and be careful before spending too much. The quality of many items you buy in Playa is questionable, and you have no recourse should something break.

Tip #5: Beware of exchange rate scams when paying with US Dollars! Know the current exchange rate, as most shops will short change you. For instance, if the exchange rate is 11 to 1 and the shopkeeper insists on 10 to 1, you end up paying 10% more than you thought. Stick to your guns!

Last Tip: Finally, have fun! If you go shopping with the right attitude, it can be a fun part of your trip!

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