Mexico, Let's Go Shopping!
WORDS & PICTURES: CHYKA KEEBAUGH
To Market We Go!
One thing you'll discover very quickly in Mexico City is that there is a market on almost every corner, what a dream come true! Some sell much the same souvenirs, but if you're prepared to wander a little further, you'll uncover some absolute gems.
La Merced Market
If there's one market that completely blew me away, it was La Merced. It's almost impossible to describe the sheer scale of this place; it feels less like a market and more like a small suburb. There are endless aisles dedicated to everything imaginable, from clothing, hats, and shoes to toys, kitchenware, and household goods. But it's the food that makes La Merced unforgettable! The fresh produce alone is extraordinary. Mountains of chillies, tomatoes, onions and garlic, stalls overflowing with tropical fruit, every cut of meat imaginable, fresh seafood, spices, cactus, sweets... You could spend hours simply taking it all in. Then there are the food stalls. Watching the women prepare quesadillas with incredible speed and precision was almost as enjoyable as eating them. Each person has a role, working together like a perfectly choreographed dance. It's bustling, colourful, noisy and completely mesmerising. Getting there takes a little effort, but it was one of our favourite experiences in Mexico City.
La Ciudadela Artisan Market
If you're looking for something to take home, La Ciudadela is the place to visit. Rather than food, this market celebrates Mexican craftsmanship with beautifully woven textiles, ceramics, homewares, clothing, bags and handmade gifts. You'll also find the wonderfully quirky side of Mexico here with colourful Día de los Muertos skeletons, vibrant folk art and, of course, the iconic Lucha Libre wrestling masks that make fabulous souvenirs.
Pushkin Flea Market & La Lagunilla
For something a little different, head to Pushkin Flea Market on Saturdays or La Lagunilla on Sundays. Pushkin wraps around a leafy park and is a delightful mix of genuine vintage finds, antiques, collectables and wonderfully random treasures. It's all part of the fun/half treasure hunt, half people watching.
My Favourite Shops & Boutiques
Goodbye Folk (Roma Norte) A beautifully curated lifestyle boutique featuring fashion, homewares and independent designers.
Casa Bosques (Roma Norte) A stunning design bookstore famous for its beautifully packaged artisan chocolate (perfect for gifts)
Utilitario Mexicano (Roma Norte) A gorgeous collection of authentic Mexican crafts, ceramics, enamelware and woven baskets.
AORA Mexico A colourful, sustainable Mexican beauty brand with beautifully designed makeup products.
Xinu Perfumes (Multiple locations) An unforgettable fragrance house celebrating Mexico's native botanicals, with one of the most beautiful retail experiences in the city.
“Travelling to Mexico is a journey of discovery, where every corner holds a new story and every person a new adventure”