Shopping in Guadalajara

As visitors, we always like to carry souvenirs back home with us. We also want to diversify our packed clothes, most of all because of good old "I bought it overseas" answer to people's "where did you get it?" Anyway, just as "eating out in Guadalajara" I will be splitting this entry into traditional shopping and fashion / grocery shopping for other needs.

Traditional Shopping
When you think local shopping, you mostly think of traditional Mexican items, such as bottles of Tequila, Mariachi hats, flags, Aztec Calendars, and other special souvenirs that remind you that you were here or that you are simply going to use as gifts. Most importantly, you want to get a fair rate for them. It is fairly known, everywhere in the world, when local vendors see that the customer in front of them isn't from around the area, they will bump up the price. This will particularly be even truer with different language speakers.

To make sure that doesn't happen to you, always go shopping with a local friend or acquaintance. Let them do the talking and the bargaining. However, if you find yourself local-free, then just do the following:

1. Walk into the first place where you have found the type of things you are looking for. Ask for the straight price right away and leave. Now you have a basis of the price you are looking for.
2. Walk a little more and drop 10% off the price they first gave you. Tell them that's what the other salesman offered and if he or she cannot improve the offer, then you're going back to the previous salesman. IMPORTANT: Look determined! Don't hesitate or they will see your bluff. 
3. Finally, just buy the fairest price. 

This said, it's now time for a list of places you might be interested in Guadalajara for traditional shopping.

Tlaquepaque

You will find a great tourist street right in the middle of Tlaquepaque, showing off the best Mexican cuisine, with lovely views and outdoor sitting. These are recommended restaurants:

1. El Patio
2. Casa Fuerte
3. El Abajeño

As far as shopping goes, you'll be able to find Mexican designer and artist labels. However, you will also find the other end of the spectrum: the tianguis. Tianguis is a indigenous word for market, and you will be able to find traditional sculptures and other handcrafts in which you'll be able to practice your bargaining skills. 

Tonalá

This place is less glamour and Mexican Haute Couture and more tradition. You won't find the restaurants you'll find in Tlaquepaque, or the designer lables. What you WILL find is the mecha of Mexican artistic traditions. You'll be able to bargain anywhere you go and you'll get authentic Mexican art. 

Guadalajara Downtown

You'll find the historic downtown to be newly renovated, clean and very walking-friendly. Find the oldest building in the city (and possibly the country), museums, Cathedrals, and other building.s You will also be able to find San Juan de Dios, the traditional market, in which you will also be able to bargain away for clothing, fruits, vegetables, and art.