How to Shop in Kenya

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Kenyan products are as diverse and unique as the country itself.

   There are traditional artifacts, fantastic jewelry, beautiful carvings, the world's best coffee (or so they say), precious stones, furniture, beautiful cloth, excellent local music, wonderful modern art and so much more to be found. , But often real finds can be found a little further off the beaten track. , Markets selling all kinds of local arts and crafts can be found all over the country.
   
   In Nairobi, there are large open air markets held each week. , The art of bargaining has deep roots in Kenyan culture, and is regarded as an essential business skill. , Opening prices are always an exaggerated gambit, and considered the first step in a long process of bargaining. , How close you come to the real price is up to you.
   
   Bargaining can be a long and convoluted process, involving protracted negotiations.
   
   Some westerners can find this frustrating, but it is an essential and usually amicable custom. , If you can both agree a figure between the two then the deal is done. ,, Prices need to be fair from both sides. , This practice can be culturally questionable, and it is usually much preferred to use money.
   
   Giving sweets and candy for children should definitely be avoided. ,
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   Step 2: Excellent

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   Step 3: well stocked gift shops can be found in hotels

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   Step 4: lodges and camps throughout the country.

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   Step 5: For the dedicated bargain hunter

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   Step 6: Kenya's markets are the place to be.

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   Step 7: Bargaining is the expected norm in Markets and even in some shops throughout Kenya.

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   Step 8: Visitors to Kenya should never be afraid to bargain

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   Step 9: it is expected and rarely considered offensive.

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    Step 10: The real price is usually somewhere in the lower vicinity of half the initial price.

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    Step 11: If you are in a hurry and need to move on

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    Step 12: it is the usual practice to finalize proceedings by declaring your 'absolute final price' (the Bei ya Mwisho) and asking for theirs.

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    Step 13: The basic rule of bargaining is this: Bargain hard but don't be unreasonable.

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    Step 14: Don't forget that some work

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    Step 15: especially good quality carvings and beaded jewelry

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    Step 16: takes a long time to make and involves a lot of hard work.

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    Step 17: Some tourists barter goods like old t-shirts

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    Step 18: pens and other items for local handicrafts.

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    Step 19: The following is a sample of some of the best buys in Kenya:

Detailed Guide

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