10 Gift Ideas - Support the Local Economy!

Last minute shopping? Here are 10 Gift Ideas that can put a smile on a loved one and a few pesos in a Mexican family's pocket. Happy shopping!

1. Artesanias by Juan Valle :  unique jewelry pieces made with all natural materials, like this great and simple jade, turquoise and coral neckless. (Juan is located right next to the Crocodile lagoon).

  2.- Friday Morning Tianguis: Mini Huipil : you have probably noticed the market setting up every Friday morning at the Jardin, this is a good opportunity to look for gifts, some vendors come all the way from the States of Guerrero and Oaxaca, I love all the colorful dresses called Huipiles, such a sweet gift for a little girl.

  3.-Restaurant Martin's - Cuban Cigars and Boutique: next time you head out for a delicious meal at Martin's don't forget to check out his selection of Manta clothing, it's fresh, light and 100% natural cotton, not to mention hand made. But if you are looking for a special gift for "him" why not a gift he can't find back home?...like hand rolled imported Cuban Cigars!!!

  4.- Martina's Fashion Store - Blusas y vestidos: take some time to walk down to the end of town, hit the soccer field and make a right, Martina's store is right on the corner, next to her house. Choose something from her variety of casual tops and dresses.

  5.- Novedades Juana - Margarita time!: tucked right behind the church, this shop has been here for quite some years now, Juana sells all kinds of stuff , mostly socks, undies, clothes and accessories but this time she has a little something more exciting in stock, a Licuadora! So have no fear that Margarita Party can still happen before the end of the year!

  6.- La Casa del Regalo - Gift wrapping: if you have your gifts but need some wrapping paper, gift bags, bows or just someone to gift wrap for you! La Casa del Regalo is the place to go, they also have all kinds of toys and trinkets for sale.

   7.- Manos Ayudando Bookstore - Hecho a mano: if you are looking for something good to read while you bask under the perfect sun on the perfect beach, don't forget to check out some of the stuff made by the women from La Manzanilla, as well as some paper mache art. This bookstore also serves as a consignment store for some crafts made by locals.

  8.- Galeria La Manzanilla - Efren Gonzales: show your support for our friend Aby and stop by the Galeria, one of Ajijic and La Mazanilla's favorite artist Efren Gonzales is showcasing a new technique and has smaller pieces available that can make perfect presents to take back home.

   9.- Hector's Vivero - Copa de oro: why not give a gift that will blossom all year long! located right down town you can pick out a beautiful flower, a palm, some fresh Mexican herbs or any plant that might complete someones garden. Clay pots are also available at the nursery.

10.- Adas Bazar - Las Catrinas llegaron ya! : conveniently located across the street from La Manzanillas most famous Tacos, come check out all the unique finds while you wait for your order, there is everything from element resistant Bamboo furniture to San Miguel de Allende Shoes!

Felices Fiestas !