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MEXICO DELUXE GUIDE »
Where to get the goods
In a country with so many cultural intersections, it's not a surprise that Mexico is a shopper's paradise. The variety of unique folk art is dizzying but other items that speak to more modern sensibilities are plentiful as well. Upscale boutiques in Mexico City's Polanco neighborhood will delight fashionistas while the contemporary art galleries of lovely Puerto Vallarta impress collectors.
Certain images of Mexico are closely intertwined with traditional handicrafts as well as what once were major exports, silver and copper. Whether the material defined the artistic method, travelers are likely to see certain patterns repeated throughout the country's craft markets, like silver jewelry with turquoise inset or bright figurines carved from native copal wood. Artisans have been creating distinct pieces for generations. As Lisa Lindblad, President of Travel Design, notes, "Santa Clara del Cobre is to copper what Taxco is to silver and, again, there are the masters who stand out and should be visited."
Other collectibles reflect regional designs and techniques that have been alive for many generations within indigenous groups. For instance, the polychrome technique of Tlaquepaque's pottery dates back to the traditions of the Tonaltecan Indians in the 16th century. Other emblematic designs are more recent but just as well known, as seen in Oaxaca's barro negro or black pottery, which was originally introduced by Doña Rosa in the '30s.
The states that are the richest in folk art are probably Oaxaca, Chiapas, Guadalajara and Michoacán. Many of these regions have what are known as "craft villages" that are accessible from the bigger cities, like Oaxaca City. Lindblad says, "Michoacán, the state where these villages find themselves, is rich in artistry and iconography and lore, and therefore provides a window into the soul of one of Mexico's most creative groups." In fact, many travelers take time to explore these places, and there are special organized shopping tours that leave from Guadalajara for forays into Tlaquepaque and Tonala, and other places like Taxco and Puebla are easily accessible from Mexico City.
You may not have to organize your entire trip around shopping expeditions, but if you find yourself nearby, many of these towns are destinations in themselves. Although Mexico City's best museums are in other parts of the city, Polanco is worth a trip for the incredible dining and people-watching, not just the stores. San Cristobal de las Casas is a delightful place in the highlands that's perfect for exploring Chiapas' archaeological and natural attractions.
If you are limited to one city, like the capital, you'll be able to find much of the art in artisan markets (like Mexico City's La Ciudadela market) and government-run Fonart stores. There are so many interesting finds throughout Mexico, making it hard to limit the country's best shopping to 10 locales. However, we've chosen the most notable destinations and the special items for which they are known.
See our slideshow of the best shopping in Mexico.
