Fiona's top tips at the markets
1 Learn and make sure to remember the important phrases in the language the sellers speak. They treat you very well if you try to speak their language. I know how to say, "How much is this?" and "No, that's too much" in about 6 different languages!
2 Always take lots of small money in the correct currency with you. I have seen too many tourists trying to haggle with U.S. dollars in the French markets-the French don't like it at all.
3 Everyone always says, "go early" but unless you are looking for the hot items (enormous Roman marble bathtubs, e.g.) you'll find that many of the stalls aren't even open until the official time.
4 If you don't see what you are looking for, ask the seller. Most of the time they have loads of extra stock hidden under the table or around the back.
5 Expect surprises. Take your wish list with you, but keep your eyes open and you will surely find something fabulous that you had never dreamed of. And don't narrow your focus too much, or you might just miss out on something great!
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