Mexico City has shopping for everyone. There are well-known international designer
boutiques along Polanco’s main drag and young punks hang outs at the eclectic
Tianguis del Chopo market. Little tiendas serve as convenience stores on practically
every corner. Shopping hours usually start at around 10 or 11 am until 8 to
10 pm, 7 days a week. Here is a short guide of where to shop for what:
For old world trinkets, shop at mercados (markets) such as La Ciudadela,
Mercado San Juan, Coyoacán, and the Zona Rosa and on Tamango Street
in Peravillo.
To shop for fruits, vegetables, breads, and other daily fresh specialities,
the Central de Abastos is Latin Americas largest open market.
Condesa is a fashionable, but relaxed, neighborhood south of Zona Rosa
that has an artistic crowd. There are many bright boutiques, art galleries,
bistros, and sidewalk cafes that have made this area popular with locals.
South of the city there is the Perisur and Coyoacan shopping malls.
Bartering is a fine art that is engaged in frequently at the many markets.
Mexican traders do love a good barter, but beware devalue their goods as they
are often the craftsmen and devaluing their goods is a personal insult. Speaking
Spanish, even broken Spanish, will help secure a better bargain. A good rule
of thumb is to never accept the first price you're offered, and expect at least
a 25% discount. If you're happy with the quality and price of an item, then
you are getting a good deal.
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