Bargaining. We don’t do it. Other people do. The rules are set by tradition wherever you go, and you have to discover them. For example, in Bali the first sale of the morning is at a lower price, because the seller gets heavenly credit for his kindness. This “morning price” is something to request. Requesting it shows that you respect the rules. Everyone smiles. Also in Bali, if you look at something that’s for sale, you’re obliged to buy it. You can’t just stand there jawing away with the salesperson (especially a street hawker). He has business to conduct. A sidelong glance at his wares is all you get – no examination. Examination = relationship, relationship = commitment, commitment = you are no friend of mine if you walk away after examination. And I might yell at you. Also in Bali (memories flooding here), once you look a street hawker in the eye, you have entered into a relationship. You cannot now say “no thanks”, no matter how courteously, without giving offence. Just hum and little song and look at the sky.