Going shopping to the market or a private shop, be sure to bargain. Typically, the real price of goods is 2-3 times lower than what the seller calls first. You definitely need to have a sufficient number of coins and small denomination bills, as it will make it easier to pay sellers, who are very reluctant to give change.
Travelers who expect to use a taxi have to be cautious. Local taxi drivers often use the ignorance of foreign visitors, so they can literally drive tourists in circles around the city; thus, the price is ten times greater than it has to be. The cost of services has to be negotiated in advance; ride in a taxi only in a large company.
Pickpocketing in crowded areas is common in Chennai, so you should be extremely cautious. Don’t take valuables, documents and large sums of cash with you; keep cameras away from prying eyes.
When ordering any services, foreign visitors are advised to negotiate the price; otherwise it can be several times higher than expected. Tipping for good service is common; usually 10% of the total is quite enough.
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