Shopping, Antigua Guatemala

Favorite thing: If you go to Antigua, Guatemala, do not hesitate in buying some indian handcrafts.

Fondest memory: It is amazing how racist mexican population is. Despite our indian roots, we are taught since we are children, to neglect the indian influence in our culture, and mainly to deny the existence of indian blood in our families...

When I visited Guatemala, I found lots of similarities with Mexico regarding the ethnic composition. And lot of discrimination as well.

Surprinsingly, foreignerns appreciate more this indian beauty and cultural richness than we do. I took a picture (after having a nice and long conversation with this indian lady) that for me represents the color and elegance of the different ethnic groups in Guatemala, and southern Mexico too...

Favorite thing: Table cloths, napkins, bags, blankets....there are ample beautifully made (hopefully hand made) items to buy all over guatemala.

in antigua you will be offered lots of stuff. the markets are a great place to buy, and panajachel near lake atitlan is a GREAT place to find unique gifts for friends back home.

it is expected that you will negotiate...and if you spend a few days in one locale, you can actually negotiate with the same person for DAYS. i have a very nice table clothe a woman made for me personally and we haggled for 2 weeks. in the end, you feel stupid denying someone a few bucks who needs it more....so i cave...or just add on to the price. but feel free to negotiate!

Favorite thing: In antigua you will constantly be approached to buy goods from young children. Most the stuff is so cheap, you can afford to buy something everyday. We bought from ths girl probably a dozen times in one month...