Shopping Etiquette
This Bolivian shopping etiquette was created specifically for visitors from outside the country. Generally speaking, if you are a foreigner-whether a visitor or an expat who lives here-your income is either slightly higher or significantly more than the typical Bolivian income. Therefore, there are particular considerations to make when you shop.
When they are in busy places, the majority of Bolivians speak very quietly and keep their conversations as private as they can. Vendors will notice the language you are speaking, or your accent and grammar if you are speaking Spanish, and use this information to determine whether or not you are skilled enough to negotiate a price and engage in the bargaining process if you are speaking louder than those around you. Avoid making a counteroffer that is so low as to be rude or insulting to the vendor. Please be aware that not all locations are equipped to handle credit cards, and only a very small number of locations accept travelers' checks. There is no acceptance of personal checks at all. Additionally, other currencies outside the dollar are not accepted.
Most stores in Bolivia don't offer return policies, in contrast to the United States. You own something if you paid for it! Even with a receipt, very few businesses will accept returns unless you have signed (or purchased) an additional warranty on the product. Therefore, verify your change, inspect the product in detail in front of the salesperson to ensure there are no flaws, check the expiration date, ensure it fits, and generally make sure you want it before you leave the store. It is yours once you walk out the door!
Bolivians commonly receive criticism from Americans for their poor customer service abilities. A salesperson will frequently give you the impression that buying their things is helping you. With this, try to be patient. Due to the extreme disparities in social and economic standing, as well as the continual bartering and bargaining that occurs, even salespeople must constantly be on alert. Everyone wants to feel like a winner and no one wants to be mistreated, tricked, or duped.
