Getting a fantastic deal in a Moroccan marketplace can be a breeze

In 2008 I lived in Paris for two years and studied at a prestigious university called Sciences Po. During my inter-university exchange I quickly learned that traveling between European countries wasn't only easy but very cost effective. My free time at school was used as a chance for me to search for deals on flights and hotels.

One of my most memorable experiences was my two week vacation to Morocco. Morocco is definitely a country where you'll experience a sudden and harsh culture shock the minute you get off the plane. But don't let that scare you off. Morocco is like a distant dream that calls out to you with the promise of an adventure that will be unforgettable.

The markets and souks within Morocco are shopping paradises for anyone who wants to discover a new world made up of brightly coloured jewelery, ceramics, carpets, spices, leather products and traditional Moroccan clothing. The most expansive shopping areas lie in the capital, Marrakech, and the imperial city of Fes. The one item I fell in love with was the Moroccan leather ottoman or poof. Poofs come in different sizes but are usually round with brightly coloured images stitched on the top. To create their poofy shape, they are usually stuffed with paper. Other items that are quite popular are little leather change purses (a great gift for family or friends), saffron for cooking, Argan oil or ceramic plates, dishes and salt and pepper containers that come in array of gorgeous colors and designs.

I ended up finding a beautiful poof for around 100 dirham (only 14 dollars), a painting made by a local artisan and a number of small trinkets (including gorgeous earrings). When I entered a shop to look for a poof the vendor asked for 400 dirham (around 60 dollars). Within 5 minutes I had gotten the price down to 100.

To learn the ways of bargaining within the Moroccan marketplace you first have to become a stubborn and firm shopper. Street vendors will usually double (or even triple!) the price of an item when they see Westerners strolling by their shop. At first they'll scream come look, come look! Just for a minute. Their voices are so inviting that you probably will foolishly start to trust their kind words. Then they'll declare oh for you I give special price while smiling their toothy smile.

Many inexperienced travelers will immediately fall for their charms and whip out their wallets without a second thought. But don't be fooled; these vendors know exactly how to lure in every passer-by. Every time I saw something I liked I would immediately retort I saw the same thing for half the price over there! The vendor will probably tell you that the item at the other shop is so cheap because it's a fake. Try not to believe them; instead give them a quick grin and start heading for the exit. Inform the vendor that you'll look elsewhere but make sure you don't rush out the door. Before your foot hits the pavement the vendor will be begging you to come back in. Ok, OK! I give you better price. More often than not they'll grant you your asking price. If not, then stand firm and start walking to the door once again. If they don't stop you a second time just remember that happiness comes with securing a good deal. If the end price is not fair then don't worry. The same item can and will be found a couple of shops down. I visited stores in three different Moroccan cities before I found my ideal poof for the perfect price!

Yvonne Ivanescu
		About the author:
		A self-proclaimed travel fanatic, Yvonne has had the opportunity to travel to many amazing and exotic countries over the years. Her favorite spot overall was her unforgettable trip to Egypt. Her journey to Paris was particularly special, as it was the Journalism School at Sciences Po that reignited her passion for writing and journalism. Since returning from France, Yvonne has interned at Vervegirl Magazine and MTV Canada while freelancing for a number of other publications. She has an Honors B.Soc.Sc in International Studies with a minor in Spanish and French and is currently pursuing her Masters in International Development and Globalization with a Specialization in Women's Studies.
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