Shopping in Mexico
Imagine a day spent shopping in México, munching on tempting street food and sipping on some authentic tequila. This is the fantasy of many travel enthusiasts, and it can certainly be achieved in this vibrant country.
In the city of Mexico City, shoppers will find everything from high-end boutiques to artisan markets. From curated collections of global and local brands at top-end addresses such as Polanco’s Avenida Presidente Masaryk to the clothing and homeware stores in the historic Roma Norte and Condesa neighborhoods, there are plenty of options.
Mercados, or local markets, are a great place to get an idea of what Mexicans actually buy and use, with a huge variety of products on offer. From traditional leather shoes to blown glass and one-of-a-kind ceramics, the stalls at these local markets are packed with treasures. Unlike shopping in department stores, where prices are clearly displayed and negotiating is discouraged, at markets it is common to haggle with vendors to find the best price.
Exploring Mexico’s Vibrant Street Markets: A Shopper’s Paradise
Small, locally-owned shops called tiendas are also prevalent across the country. These places of commerce are often the equivalent of convenience stores back home and serve as a go-to for light grocery shopping. The ubiquitous OXXO chain of convenience stores can be found on every corner and is a good option for stocking up on essentials like bottled water, a carton of eggs, or even a bag of Flamin’ Hot Doritos.
Boutiques and artisan stores tend to have a more discerning clientele with offerings ranging from reinterpretations of traditional Mexican homewares to edgy fashion from up-and-coming designers. Roma Quince is an example of a store that has curated its collection to appeal to a stylish crowd, with a selection of homeware and fashion designed to last.