Notes from Islamabad: Bargainer's Paradise

Posted by Zunaira on 04 January 2005


Be it Rs.15 for a short ride within the F sector in Islamabad or Rs.50 off a shawl, the Pakistani consumer has the comfort of haggling over price before nailing a deal. We’re not talking sophisticated boardroom negotiations but everyday off-the-counter [or over the rickshaw meter if you please] fuss one does to save 10s and 20s.

The perpetual fear of being ripped off by a salesperson is relevant to all countries, except when you do high street shopping in the Western hemisphere. No official price standards exist for every good sold in our land but extracting a general idea from uncles&aunties, friends and colleagues about what costs what for how much saves much heartburn. So when a cabbie charges you Rs.50 for a ride between F-6 and F-8 you know you have been had! At the same time, topping up with an extra 5 if the cabbie is honest about his fare is a civil gesture [there is room for civility in all walks of life].

The whole idea is to be a smart consumer, and not a careless spender. Fruit, vegetable and household shopping at open bazaars [those once a week shopper’s delight] is by default for serious bargainers. However, if you frequent a select few shops, you know you can even get away with discounts on stationary! Haggle all you like on everything, for in Pakistan, you know you can. Know any open markets where I can excercise my right to bargain over food, clothes and furniture in Isloo?

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Comments
(latest on top)

Zunaira said: -
Khush-amdaid Hemlock.

I have heard of a 'Covered Market' where cast-offs/barely-used woolies are sold of at dirt-cheap prices. Is Afghan market one and the same? Muchas gracias for the tip PP. Pindi in a cab, sounds, tiring. Will do, once Flu bites the dust.


Pakpos said: -
My 2 paisas: Check out that old Afghan Market. Also, a visit to Murree Road or Saddar in Pindi, if you're in the mood of a Bohri-bazaar spree. :)

Ms Zunaira Durrani, ladies and gentlemen. :)


PS. I would also like to welcome Ms Hemlock from Lahore, if I may. I've personally been a silent fan of her quirky, witty blog for a long time. She'd bring a somewhat younger (only counting myself here!), but nevertheless, valuable variety to Specials.


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