We're wandering through the jade market, an enclosed space, filled with rows and rows of identical shops. These stalls all contain exactly the same wares, with exactly the same shop keepers. Sometimes one shop keeper controls multiple stalls, rushing from one to the other muttering high-speed CantoneseContrary to popular belief, the real skill in market-going is not actually the haggling itself. It's actually being able to look at stalls without being accosted by hopeful sellers. Those without any experience will peruse around shops cheerfully, but will soon find themselves caught in a trap of scary Chinese accents, anxious sellers and "the best jade the world has to offer".
Those who have learnt from this experience will cast quick glances at stalls, before briskly walking out of the clutches of the stall holder before they are aware of a potential customer. Even more timid tourists will only survey from afar, and will take several lasp around the market to actually see anything in detail. Whilst Dad and I had got this method down pat, Christopher and Mum became the first few victims to the jade sellers. We mourn their loss, and wish to see them in a better place.
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Rachel
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