In Reply to: I agree Ron. posted by Fiona on Wednesday, 25. July 2012 at 05:39 Bali Time:
It's only been 2 years since we have been in Bali but I know a lot has changed in pricing - many friends complain about the rise in the prices of hotel rooms.The thing is our Krystle has even said she notices the difference this trip if she starts bargaining on her own for something versus if she stands back & lets her 1st timer friends try to buy a particular item.Last trip she went with friends without us - she also had a 1st timer with her & she didn't notice much difference.
She says this trip she immediately is offered a lower price,maybe it's confidence or the way you talk,I really don't know.Not something I have really thought about before.She said today after chatting to a store owner she was pretty much straight away offered sun glasses for 20,000/ 25,000 which I think everyone would agree is a fair price - it just makes me wonder how locals can tell the difference between a 1st timer & someone who has been before.She told me she did not speak a single word of Bahasa Indonesia to this storekeeper nor did she mention she had been to Bali many times before & that within less than 2 minutes of talking he just said if you want any sunglasses come back & see me & this will be your price.WHAT exactly is it that stands out ?