How does bargaining work?

Bargaining is standard in the souks and with freelance services — taxis without meters, guides, market stalls. It's not expected in restaurants, supermarkets, pharmacies, or shops with printed price tags. The opening price in a souk is not a scam — it's the start of a conversation. There's no fixed rule like "offer half." The real price depends on the item, the season, and how many tourists walked past that day.