If it’s Wednesday, it must be Tianguis in Ajijic. Honestly, I didn’t know the meaning of tianguis until spending time in Mexico last month. I have been to many tianguis during my life, and I was calling them street markets. This is precisely what the word tianguis means…street market.
The location of the markets rotates during the week…just like my favorites in the South of France. Chapala’s market is Monday, Ajijic…Wednesday, and Jocotopec…Thursday. There may be more, and I’m sure I will discover them.
While in Ajijic, I had the opportunity to visit their market. Good golly! It was hectic. Locals and ex-pats shop here weekly. The market itself is located on a shady street. Of course, the road is cobblestone, with one exception. The middle of the street has been paved. This helps prevent those pesky falls.
Just as in other locations worldwide, working the market is a family affair. Including pets. I don’t have a problem with that. The first time I saw a dog in a restaurant was 500 years ago in Europe. I get it…they are members of the family.
If you require fresh seafood, this is your man. He is very cute…forget the seafood. Moving right along.
As you can see from the sign, Joshua is selling fresh fruit. I can’t remember when I saw someone cutting a coconut open. Actually, I think it might have been in Mexico many years ago and had something to do with a coco loco. Enough said.
The competition between food vendors and the aroma of their creations was fierce—iron chef at its best. I was impressed to see a woman chopping, flipping, and wrapping a meal…at the same time. This may be normal, but I don’t spend much time cooking anymore, so it truly impressed me.
Many stalls had tables in the back where the customers could sit while enjoying their food.
Serious workmanship here. The beading was so delicate, and the prices were very affordable. When I return, I will be acquiring some necklaces. Isn’t the little girl on the right adorable? I hope she wasn’t in charge of watching the table.
This market had a lovely vibe: very happy people, merchants, and customers. I look forward to returning to this market and visiting the other local markets. If I lived here…yeah…I’d be shopping here.
Viva Mexico!
Mariette VandenMunckhof-Vedder says
Dearest Barb,
That is a true taste of culture! Those local markets are the best.
We recall them from living in Italy, such a special atmosphere and the smell and flavor of things being created, prepared and offered.
No doubt this was a unique experience as well and we can only admire the craft of those indigenous people!
Hugs,
Mariette
Barb says
Hi Mariette,
I grew up on farmer’s markets so this felt close to home. Such an interesting setting with genuine people.
Thank you for stopping by.
Hugs,
Barb
Mikala says
Once again fabulous pictures…and I too love street markets. But I thought you went to Mexico on a more serious note, I didn’t realize you were going to enjoy yourself so much. Must’ve been grand.
Barb says
Hi Mikala,
Thank you for stopping by and commenting. Always appreciated. It was difficult to get pics, so crowded and whenever I stopped, I held up the people behind me. I did have fun but it seemed strange to be there ‘alone’ so to speak.
Take care,
Barb
Andrea Fisher says
Hi dear, what gorgeous photos! It looks wonderful, leaves me yearning to go there! So nice to read about your trip!
Sending love and hugs! xoxoxo
Barb says
Hi Andrea,
Thank you for stopping by and commenting! I appreciate it! This was a magical experience. I love this part of Mexico. I’m looking forward to showing hubby. I’m pretty sure he will feel the same way.
Take good care. XOXO,
Barb