There doesn't seem to be much in China that isn't negotiable. It was awkward at first, but I've learned now always to ask for a discount; it's not the least bit rude and it sometimes turns up great results. Who knew I could get ten percent off of my new blender at the department store?

Shopping, buying and selling, they're all games in China. The seller plays and the buyer plays. Most of the time it's amiable but sometimes tempers flare. I've seen the local fishmonger fling eels at a shopper who dared deride the merchandise and I've seen punches being thrown over a sack of oranges at an open-air marketplace. Have no fear, however, when it comes to the tourist-trade, everyone's out to make a deal. You just have to learn the rules, and you'll come away with a bag of goodies and a big smile on your face.