By far one of my favourite places in Guadalajara is Tlaquepaque. This region of the city is jammed with local artisans, good restaurants and interesting markets. While the main drag is a little over-commercialized with trendy boutiques selling Mexican goods for triple the normal price, you can still find an authentic artistic atmosphere down the side streets.
On Sunday night we went to a local market in Tlaquepaque with V's dad and step-mom which was being held in an old hospital, now converted to an event venue. It was an old building with multiple courtyards and arched hallways and room upon room of artisan crafts from all over Mexico and South America. I almost bought about a million things but ended up only leaving with 2 bottles of an all natural honey and almond cream, selling at only $4 a bottle. I have made a vow that before we leave Mexico I will buy a large aztec/navajo rug. They sell them everywhere down here and at a very reasonable price. There were multiple vendors in the market with piles of them in every shape and colour but I was so overwhelmed with so many options that I couldn't focus. Next time...
(images via flickr and weird friends)
