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When people go on vacation they
love to relax, eat great food, go to the amazing beaches, check out the
nightlife, and of course shop! When shopping in Tulum, and in other
parts of Mexico, there are many things
that people like to buy; local art, glassware, hand crafted pottery, silver,
hammocks, Mexican Chocolate, and of course tequila! We have included some basic
information and background to help with the process of finding the perfect
souvenir to commemorate your trip to Tulum.
Local art, pottery, and glass ware:
 Depending on your style and tastes
there are some amazing local artists here in Tulum, and the Rivera
Maya. Due to our international community we have some world class art. There
are foreign artists that create
their interpretations of the area, and culture, as well as national artists who are exquisite at their trade. You can even buy
Turkish tapestries here in The Rivera Maya, go figure! Many people also love
the art form in the local pottery; from the earthenware, to the hand blown
glassware, to the complexities of Talavera, many people like to bring home a
piece of the pottery culture as a souvenir.
 Glassware- Glassware was
virtually unknown to the pre-conquest Mexicans. The first primitive
Mexican glassware was produced in Puebla
in the mid 1500's. For hundreds of years, with nothing more than a piece
of molten glass, a long hollow pipe, and a few primitive tools, these artisans
have produced glass items in a variety of shapes. Originally, Mexican
glass was called bubble glass because of all the bubbles produced when methods
were not as uniform as today. The blown glass technique consists of blowing
through a pipe onto a red-hot glass mass, heated in a special oven. As the
artisan blows, he can start molding the piece by turning it around with the
pipe. When the piece starts cooling, using the appropriate tools, any figures
can be molded. Color is added to the glass to give it a wonderful look, tones
and effects. Some very experienced artisans add effect such as small
bubbles in the inside of some pieces.
Pottery and ceramics- The ancient
techniques used to make ceramics are still used today, but they are more
prominent in rural parts of Mexico.
It is remarkable how the artisans have been able to preserve their artistic
techniques; coil building, open firing, and natural pigments over such a long
period of time.
Puebla- Talavera is a
direct descendant of the Arabic tradition, which began in Spain in the ninth century, when
the influence of the Arabic culture passed on its techniques to peninsular
potters. In Talavera de la Reina,
Spain, it
became very popular. It was then that it was brought to the Americas, especially the New Spain, as Mexico
was called in colonial times. Although authentic Talavera is only produced in Puebla,
other similar styles have been produced through out Mexico, and can be purchased in
various locations around Tulum.
Jalisco-The State of Jalisco has a long
tradition of ceramic production. Here, there is more of a Persian
influence, including pieces such as stew urns, using gold and silver.
The State of Mexico- The State of Mexico's ceramics have been heavily
influenced by the church. Here they create the well-known arboles de la vida, trees of
life. Wire is used to attach the clay
leafs and figurines to the "tree". It is called de la vida because it explains the
origins of life. Usually there are figures of God, angles and Adam and Eve, as
well as the serpent and some fruit are represented by special figures. Day of the Dead trees are also made
using skeletons, and images related to the festivity. Some are made
in terracotta, without glaze; others are painted in every imaginable color.
 Michoacán- Red ware, which is used to make
everything from large cooking pots to rice dishes, is typical of Michoacán.
These pieces are often adorned with small flowers and designs
As
you can see, Mexican ceramics and glassware bring together the influences of
pre-Hispanic, European, Arabic and Oriental cultures. Whatever technique
is used, Mexican ceramics have an individuality and "flavor" that is
appreciated for its art and quality worldwide. In Tulum the most
commonly found pottery, ceramics, and glassware are the red earthenware,
Talavera, and the blown glass ware. The red earthenware is relatively
inexpensive, as well as the glassware, but you can spend a bit more on a
Talavera piece such as a sink or mirror. Also keep in mind when shopping that
if you venture up to the highway there are more bargains to be had then if you
stay in the tourist area in and around 5th Avenue.
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Silver
Mexico, the world's largest
producer of silver, followed only by Peru,
and the United States,
has produced perhaps as much as a third of the silver that the world has ever
used. About 80 percent of the world's silver is produced as a byproduct of gold
or other metals, but Mexico
is one of the few countries that has primary silver mines.  The silver
mines have their special place in Mexican mining history as well as a major
role in the development of the history of the New World.
The mines of Zacatecas, Arizpe, Guanajuato, Pachuca,
Batopilas, Fresnillo, Puebla
and Taxco are world renowned for their rich ore deposits,
with the mines in Taxco being the oldest mines
in the Americas.
This being said there is an abundant amount of silver jewelry and other
accessories, to be purchased here in Mexico. Although Quintana Roo is
not world renowned for silver production there are definitely deals to be had.
There are numerous silver shops sprinkled along 5th avenue trying to coax you
through the door. Many have similar wares, but certainly compare and shop
before you decide to buy. As a rule calculate how much a piece will cost by the
gram, and here in Tulum, it shouldn't run more then about 18 pesos
per gram. If they are trying to charge more then that then you are being taken
advantage of. Also keep in mind that there are some pieces that are not sold by
weight and the bargaining s up to you.
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Hammocks
 The word hammock evokes images of comfort, relaxation, leisure, freedom, and
possibly just good old lazy procrastination. But when it comes to choosing one,
are all hammocks alike? The answer is "no" there is much more to a hammock then
meets the eye. The one that is most popular here in The Rivera Maya is the
Mayan Hammock, or Yucatecan Hammock. The following information will be helpful
in your quest for the perfect hammock!
Size: Purchase a
54-inch-wide by 84-inch-long hammock to comfortably fit two adults (called a
matrimonial), or buy a hammock that is at least 45 inches wide and between 76
and 84 inches long for single seating (called a single).
Thread count: Matrimonials
should have 200 or more pairs of strings at either end, and singles can have
significantly less. A great hammock will be tightly woven of nice, fine thread.
The best are double or triple woven. Check this by stretching out the woven
area, and there shouldn't be much of a hole between the threads in the weave. It
is also important to check the edges; make sure there are about 15 strings
(minimum 10) along each edge to hold the body of the hammock together. Always
make sure you check the end loops to make sure they're good and thick and
tightly wrapped. This is very important because this is where you hang the
hammock from and you don't want to hit the ground while taking your afternoon
siesta!
Cost: You really
shouldn't pay more then about 500 pesos for a matrimonial sized hammock, but
you will get an even better deal if you purchase more then one.
Where to buy: There
are often vendors that roam the streets and beaches, but sometimes the quality
of their hammocks is not the best. However, now that you know what to look for
you can certainly see what they have to offer. Who knows you may find the
perfect hammock! Also there are two small villages on the way to Coba that have
various shops and artisans and you can get some great deals on hammocks. One of
the best places to buy a hammock for both quality and pricing is the Valladolid prison, go
figure! If you plan on visiting Chichen
Itza you can incorporate this with a stop at the
prison
 The Mayan Style Hammock is one of the most popular and obviously readily
available in Tulum and the surrounding areas. This hammock's predecessor is the original
hammock, which dates back over 1000 years. The same folks who built the Central
American pyramids, created the most accurate calendar, developed an advanced
writing system, and were generally brilliant astronomers and mathematicians -
The Mayans, invented it. Their ingenious web-like design is still woven today
by thousands of highly trained artisans. Many of them are direct descendants of
this superior culture. Most string hammocks come from Mexico, Guatemala,
Nicaragua, and El Salvador.
The Mayan hammock, which comes from the Yucatan
province in Mexico,
is considered the best of these types of hammocks. String hammocks are
reminiscent of tightly woven webs made of fine cotton in a weave that often
consists of over a mile of string. This weave is very flexible yet incredibly
supportive. It allows the hammock to shape and conform to any body size or
shape. String hammocks allow perfect ventilation without any uncomfortable waffle
side effects. The overall size and weight capacity of these string hammocks is
unsurpassed.
Mayan string hammocks without staves are very lightweight and compact so they
are easy to transport, store, and carry. They are popular among backpackers,
sailors, and rock climbers - on and off the wall! Mayan hammocks are especially
convenient as an extra bed or great furniture inside. They can be attached and
removed at leisure to permanent screw hooks anchored in wall studs or ceiling
beams. The main concern with string hammocks is their susceptibility to
careless damage. Sharp objects or edges, buttons and zippers can all be enemies
to the string hammock when the user is careless. So if you are the destructive
type you might consider a hammock that sustains more abuse. String hammocks
absorb moisture but dry quickly so they are not as vulnerable to rotting as the
other hammocks; however, it is important not to store the hammock if even
slightly damp. The beautiful colors that are the trademark of Yucatan string provide a beautiful and
unique aesthetic appeal. In time, with exposure to the sun, they fade like your
favorite jeans.
Hammock information courtesy of www.hammock.com
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Mexican and Mayan Chocolate
Mexican chocolate is made from
dark, bitter chocolate mixed with sugar, cinnamon, and sometimes nuts.
The end result is a "grainy" less smooth product. Chocolate is
frequently purchased in "disks" although it is also available in bars
and syrups. And there is nothing like making hot chocolate from this delicious concoction!
But behind this lovely chocolately treat is a long rich history of the cacao
bean. The word chocolate is said to derive from the Mayan word xocoatl; cocoa
from the Aztec word cacahuatl. The Mexican Indian word chocolat comes from
a combination of the terms choco ("foam") and atl
("water"); as early chocolate was only consumed in beverage form.
Chocolate has been drunk as a beverage for thousands of years.
Chocolate grows on trees, appearing
in its raw state as melon-like pods on the 40-60 foot tall trees known
botanically as "Theobroma cacao," which means "food of the
gods." This tropical tree has grown wild in Central
America since prehistoric times. It also grows in South America,
Africa and part of Indonesia. The cacao tree produces a fruit about the size of a small
pineapple. Inside the fruit are the tree's seeds, also known as cocoa beans.
Archeologists tell us that the Olmecs,
the oldest civilization of the Americas
(1500-400 BC), were probably the first users of cacao, followed by the Maya, who consumed cacao-based
drinks made with beans from their plantations in the Chontalpa region of what
is now eastern Tabasco.
A drink called 'chocolatl' made from roasted cocoa beans, water and a little spice,
was their most important use but cocoa beans were also valued as a currency.
Because cocoa beans were valuable, they were given as gifts at ceremonies
such as a child's coming of age and at religious ceremonies. The Maya had very
many complicated religious beliefs with many gods. Merchants often traded cocoa
beans for other commodities, cloth, jade and ceremonial feathers. Maya farmers
transported their cocoa beans to market by canoe or in large baskets strapped
to their backs, and wealthy merchants, employing porters to carry their wares,
ventured as far as Mexico
the land of the Aztecs, so introducing them to the much prized cocoa beans.
If you would like to experience the yummiest of Mayan chocolate while
visiting Tulum, stop by Ah
Cacao which is located on the corner of Constituyentes and 5th Avenue.
It is tucked behind Aca Los Tacos. If you would like to buy traditional Mexican
Chocolate it can be found in all major markets and shops.
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Tequila
 Mention tequila and one may think about Mexico, sipping
on margaritas, and perhaps the odd shot or two! For some it may remind them of
things that they never thought they would do like dancing on tables, kissing
total strangers...you get the picture. Often people say that tequila gives you a
"different" buzz than other alcohols. Most likely, after they have had a few!
By the way, there is no proof of this.
So if you are a tequila aficionado or a naiveté there are
some complexities to tequila that are not immediately apparent. For example;
what is the difference between
anejo, reposado,
white, or gold tequilas and what about the crazy worm in mescal? Is it tequila?
As you can imagine, this research entailed only the highest of standards
drinking many shots until the wee hours of the morning!
So what is tequila made of? The best tequila's are made of
100% blue agave, which is a large plant that is harvested for its core or "pina" that is made into
tequila. All 100% agave tequila must be bottled in Mexico. This pure tequila can come in three forms:
Blanco, reposado and anejo.
Blanco: This young non-aged tequila has the most distinct
agave taste because it is not stored in wood barrels for long. Typically, they
taste somewhat floral, herbal with a peppery bite to them. *Note that it can also be labeled as plata or
silver
Reposado: Literally means rested and is aged a minimum of 2
months. They usually have a light to medium golden color with a smoother taste
due to the aging in wood barrels.
Anejo: Meaning aged, this tequila is aged a minimum of 1 year
and usually not more than 3. These tequilas are usually darker with a smooth,
mellow taste. Similar to enjoying a fine scotch it is often served in a brandy
snifter. Mmmmmm, a definite favorite whether it is served straight up or in a
margarita!
Tequila that is not 100% is known as mixto.
Mixto blanco = non-aged
Mixto gold = not aged and has added color and flavors
By definition, all tequilas are mescals but not all mescals
are tequilas. Mescal, like tequila, is
distilled from the agave plant family but of a different variety called
espadin. The process in which it is made is also different. The agave is
roasted, not cooked, like tequila. This accounts for the smoky taste. And what about the worm? Legend has it that
the worm that lives in the plant carries the magical spirit and carries it to
the drinker. This is really an ingenious marketing tool as the worm contains
only a bit of protein!
Now, how does one drink tequila? This may seem silly but so
many times people use the typical shoot ‘em back style which is wrong in so
many ways.
First of all, many bars serve fine tequila such as a 100%
reposado as their house tequila. (We'll talk brands later) These tequilas and
the finer anejos are not meant to be shot back with salt and lime. They are
meant to be savored and sipped, perhaps even on ice. Many tequila aficionados
claim that good tequila should not even be served in a shot glass. If you really must shoot it back you may as
well buy a cheaper one.
So these are the basics of types of tequilas and how to
decipher what is on the label. But what
do you buy? By all means, you may need to go out and do some research of your
own but here are some of my favorites:
Gran Centenario: Both reposado and anejo are excellent at a
reasonable price; a favorite among tequila fans that is served in most bars.
Herradura: They make only excellent, 100% blue agave
tequilas that are a favorite among Mexicans. That's got to tell you something.
Jose Cuervo: Commonly served in bars is a very well known
brand with a wide price range. My pick would be Cuervo 1800 Anejo or Reposado.
If you want decent tequila for mixed drinks Tradicional is priced reasonably.
Sauza: Another common brand that is served in most bars as
their house tequila is Hornitos that is pretty decent. Sauza Conmemorativo is a better quality,
smoother tequila.
Don Julio: A little more pricey, but excellent tequila
whether you choose the blanco or anejo.
So whether you are a margarita connoisseur, an upscale
tequila sipper, or a shot taking professional, there is a tequila for every
one! So hopefully after this information you can hold your own in a tequileria,
and truly enjoy the tequila experience. There is certainly more to tequila then
meets the eye.
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More Shopping Options
So welcome to Tulum,
and shop ‘til you drop!
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