When walking through an Israeli shuk (market) sensory overload is a given and things can seem overwhelming and hectic at times. As soon as vendors hear you aren’t from Israel you become a walking billboard that says “rip me off, I know no better.” Until now, here are 5 hacks to make shopping at the shuk as a foreigner, easier.
Don’t be afraid to be assertive
Vendors often like to put on the pressure when they see tourists coming to shop at the shuk. If you’re just looking don’t be afraid to let a vendor know so they stop trying to sell you that “good-quality” something or other.
Don’t be afraid to haggle
The shuk isn’t an ordinary market with set prices for each item. If the vendor gives you a price, try to talk your way into a fairer price, after all it is customary to bargain. The best way to bargain is to bring smaller bills (or coins) and let the vendor know that’s all you have to offer them. If they don’t take the bait, chances are another vendor is selling the same thing for cheaper the deeper you go into the shuk.
Always look ahead
Shuks tend to be crowded and bustling with people so avoid burying your head into your phone and always keep your head up so you don’t walk into something or someone.
Know when to go
If you’re shopping for items other than produce, to avoid the foot traffic go in the morning but to get the cheapest prices for cooking materials, go at the end of the week. Vendors that sell produce are usually trying to sell their goods for cheaper so it could be used before the weekend.
Don’t go on Saturdays
Saturdays in Israel are usually a day of rest, locals trade visits to the shuk, which are usually closed, for a day on the beach. So spare yourself the disappointment of walking through a shutdown shuk, and do as the locals do.