Is Bartering Really a Thing in Puerto Vallarta?

It’s one of those cultural things that needs to be learned if you are going to be living in Puerto Vallarta full or part time.  Not just how to barter, but when and where it is appropriate to do so without inadvertently causing offense.

There is absolutely a culture of bartering in Puerto Vallarta and the rest of Mexico and when done correctly, it can be a fun part of a business transaction where each party usually walks away thinking they “got the better” deal.  Here is a list of where you should and shouldn’t expect to barter:

Places to Barter
• Souvenir shops
• Craft marketplaces
• Stalls on the street or Malecon

Places You Can Try to Barter
• Spas (discounts for multiple services)
• Tequila shops (discounts for multiple bottles)
• Art Galleries
• Jewelry Stores

Places to Never Barter
• Department Stores
• Restaurants
• Chain Stores

Another tip is to remember that paying with cash will always get you the best deal. And most importantly, shop workers and owners are hard-working people that support both local artisans and their own families, so remember to barter good-naturedly, respectfully and always with a smile.

Read more about Puerto Vallarta lifestyle from Elengorn Realtors.