A Good Bargain

A Good Bargain

It was a cold winter morning in Chiang Mai, one of the largest cities in Northern Thailand. Some 700kms away from the bustling Bangkok. Chiang Mai Province has some of the country’s highest mountains.

The range is often called the Land of the Misty Mountains and known for its beautiful views and colourful Hill Tribes.

This mountain range can only be travelled by using the dedicated transport from the foot hill of the mountain.

On the back of this huge bakkie we drove up to some of the most amazing views from various Hill stops until we came to rest at the highest point of Doi Suthep. A fairly colourful Market had been setup by the Hill Tribes. 

A Tourist Hotspot I presume.

We also decided to venture out and came across many interesting items. It was here that we noticed a beautiful piece of Jewellery with a ruby like stone. I was very keen and made the purchase of the ring. 

A strikingly colourful tribesman and his partner with their baby helped us during the sale. We were impressed and a short while later noticed he had other matching pieces.

It was here that I relied on my research skills and started the bargain process. I was really motivated to buy that piece. The Tribesman was very hard and never gave into my bargaining skills.

His partner on the other was tempted to take the offer, maybe due to the need of a good morning sale.

The tribesman was frustrated and removed the baby from his back and in the Thai Language shouted at his partner. This made me feel so silly and I felt bad. I could not spend a moment longer. I left the money that I had to bargain with and moved away not taking the piece of jewel.

Now that I find myself in the retail space, I always think about that incident and would really think twice before waging for a bargain.

What are your thoughts……