Markets are a not insignificant part of daily life in Mexico. They usually open at typical meal times and are usually very busy, especially in the evenings. This is also the case with the market I’m talking about in this post.
The market in Cancún – at least the one I’m talking about – is the first market where I tasted Mexican food in Mexico. In fact, the first and only one where I left way too much money – my fault though. I didn’t quite realise that for 35 pesos (1.75 euros at the time) you actually get 4 tacos and thought I would have to pay 35 for each one – between you and me that would be a lot in Mexico. Too much. If someone sells you a taco for 35 pesos, itß s a ripp-off. I promise. I didn’t know any better, wanted to pay 100 pesos and the puzzled lady kindly gave me 50 back. She could have kept it all 😀 So I was baffled and didn’t understand anything at first and she benefited at least a little from my ignorance. It happened and I had to laugh about it afterwards. The perfect ingredients for a wonderful memory that makes you laugh about yourself.
But back to the markets. There are of course an infinite number of other markets. In Cancún as well as throughout Mexico, of course. As just mentioned, markets are an essential part of daily life in Mexico. Mexicans come here to buy basic foodstuffs or other items, to eat, to browse and to socialise. They are an important meeting place and a very important source of income. The market I’m telling you about today is a very small market with everything your heart desires (tacos al pastor!!! <3), reasonable prices, a stage and, of course, a mini amusement park where children can have fun in the evenings. In fact, I’ve also seen artists performing a piece on the guitar and other beautiful and crazy things. As I said, Mexicans like to go out in the evening and end the day with socialising and a bit of hustle and bustle. Or they just sit and relax and watch everything.
Now the big, all-important question: go or not go? You can if you’re in the neighbourhood, but it’s not a must. I liked the vibe back then and the market was close to my hostel, so…. Up to you. But what you definitely have to do: Eat tacos or try another delicious Mexican speciality. And yes, when it comes to tacos, every Mexican cliché and stereotype is true 😀