Haggling in Turkey's Bazaars: Why Lira in Hand Wins

From Istanbul's Grand Bazaar to the weekly markets of the coast, haggling is a Turkish tradition, and cash is your strongest card. Buy Turkish lira before the trip with a commission-free provider such as Travel FX and negotiate from a position of strength.

The rules of the game

Open well below the asking price, keep it friendly, be ready to walk away and let the seller call you back. Tea may be offered; accepting it is polite and obliges you to nothing.

Why cash closes deals

A visible note settles a negotiation faster than any card, and sellers often knock more off for immediate cash payment.

Come prepared

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