Steph, don't let anyone hand you anything. That's the best way to avoid any arising problems. I have always been friendly, but I just use a "No thank you!" with a smile and keep walking. I don't stop, I don't let myself be called over to anyone...unless I am specifically looking to buy something. Last trip with our ten year old, I kept pushing over and over to her not to let anyone give her anything. Well, a guy selling bracelets walked up to her and was talking to her. I saw him put the bracelet in her hand so I rushed over and said, "My child has to do what her mother says and she doesn't have any money! They are beautiful, but no thanks!" What could he say with that? He knew that Mama was her boss, lol.

Bottom line, they are there. They aren't going anywhere. That's how they make their dollars. You don't have to stay while they are trying to get you to buy something. You can say no thanks and walk away. They certainly don't ruin my good time!