The first thing to note when shopping in Trincomalee is that you should make your purchases using the local currency, the Sri Lankan rupee, which has an exchange rate of approximately 110 rupees to 1 USD. It's important to be aware that taking this currency out of the country's borders is not allowed, and there may be fines for violating this rule.
Now, let's talk about shopping in Trincomalee. You can have a fantastic shopping experience here, as bargaining is not only common but also expected in the local markets. However, it's essential to be polite and respectful when negotiating. Sri Lankan traders may offer discounts of around 30% off the initial price, but don't anticipate more significant reductions, as tourists are often perceived as affluent enough to pay the regular prices.
Reviews about shopping in Trincomalee are overwhelmingly positive. Many tourists have been delighted with their shopping experiences, often securing better deals after negotiating a few times.