Shopping in Mexico
Mexico is a nation of extraordinarily talented artists and craftspeople. Few countries display their culture with such color, artistry and creativity. Using an abundant array of native materials and techniques that have endured for centuries,  Mexican artists can often be seen at work in markets and workshops throughout the country. There is great regional diversity, with certain areas famous for a particular craft.
Do not miss the chance to experience market day while in Mexico. Nearly every town has one. These are indoor/outdoor mazes of color, sight, and sound that overflow with produce, meats, handicrafts, flowers, clothing, and other essential items. Mexico is most famous for the "artesanias" (handicrafts) and manufactured items listed below:
CANDY
Where to Find the Best:
- Guanajuato
- Morelia
- Nuevo Leon
- Puebla
CERAMICS
From simple trinkets to colorful masks, to massive works of art; the creations of several artists, (Sergio Bustamante for one) are world famous. (NOTE: ceramicware is often decorated with leaded paint and should not be used for food and drink)
Where to Find the Best:
- Guanajuato
- Guadalajara
- Oaxaca
- Puebla
- San Cristobal de las Casas
- Tlaquepaque
- Tonala
COPPER
Where to Find the Best:
- Villa Escalante (Santa Clara del Cobre) in Michoacan.
LEATHER
Fine quality shoes, belts, purses at bargain prices.
Where to Find the Best:
- Guadalajara
- Leon
- Monterrey
POTTERY
Excellent craftsmanship from centuries of experience; often hand painted and utilizing unique techniques. Green and black pottery of Oaxaca is an example. (NOTE: pottery is often decorated with leaded paint and should not be used for food and drink.)
Where to Find the Best:
- Oaxaca
- Puebla
- Tonala
- Tlaquepaque
- Guadalajara
RESORT CLOTHING
Several European designer and Mexico-born chains are found in most beach areas, including ACA JOE, Guess, Valentino, and Polo.
Where to Find the Best:
- All major beach resort areas
SILVER
Being the world leader in silver production, Mexico crafts exquisite jewelry; always look for the ".925" stamp (meaning 92.5% pure) to ensure quality.
Where to Find the Best:
- Guanajuato
- Mexico City
- Taxco
- Tlaquepaque
- Zacatecas
TEXTILES & WEAVINGS
Thousands of years of tradition go into handwoven shawls, dresses, blankets, scarves, baskets, and reed mats.
 Where to Find the Best:
- Aguascalientes
- Chiapas
- Jocotepec
- Merida
- Oaxaca
- Patzcuaro
- Veracruz
WOODWORK
Now vogue in the U.S., Mexico's whimsical and colorful carved animals are prized souvenirs. The best pieces are found in Oaxaca. Also popular is lacquerware, carved masks, furniture and guitars.
Where to Find the Best:
- Guadalajara
- Michoacan
- Oaxaca
- San Miguel de Allende
- Uruapan
REGARDING BARGAINING:
Some haggling over prices is acceptable in certain settings (open air markets, and with beach/street vendors) but not appropriate in resort shops and stores. Prices generally include the 15% Value Added Tax.
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