Souvenir from Mexico: 5 craft items to buy

Mexico is a fascinating country with diverse cultures that are unified by traditions, food, bright colors and music. It is not unusual that after spending your vacation in Mexico you are be eager to bring back everything you see. If you are thinking of purchasing a souvenir in Mexico, remember to choose small or lightweight items that will not take much space in your luggage.

Here are 5 souvenirs to buy in Mexico:

Taxco Silver and Amber

Taxco, Guerrero is the silver capital of Mexico and is the best spot to buy jewelry at a reasonable price, even though Taxco silver can be found in any corner of Mexico. Real sterling silver pieces of jewelry will always be engraved with the number 92.5 which reflects the percentage of silver each item contains.

Taxco silver jewelry often includes semi-precious stones such as turquoise, malachite or onyx.

Mexican amber is obtained from fossil bearing rocks in the state of Chiapas. It is 25 million years old and has healing and protective qualities. Prices vary depending on color and quality, and you can find pieces with fossilized insects inside. It is mainly used in rings, pendants and bracelets.

Xtabentún Liquor (Shtabentûn)

This liquor has its origins in the Mexican Maya culture which expands throughout the Yucatan Peninsula (which includes the states of Yucatan, Quintana Roo and Campeche). Its name derives from the small and yellow flower of Xtabentún, where the bees feed from. This liquor has been perfected over time for the last 1000 years and is made from fermented honey, anise and is distilled with rum. A perfect gift for those who enjoy original and unique tastes.

Hand woven textiles

Textiles in Mexico go back a long time. Pre-hispanic fibres were made from palm, yucca and maguey plants, as well as cotton. It was only with the Spanish conquest that sild and wool were introduced. In a variety of colors and craftsmanship, you will find many options to choose from: the traditional dresses called “Huipiles” and “sarapes” which are embroidered, cushion covers, bed spreads, table runners, rugs, stuffed animals, belts, bracelets, etc. Most textiles are made with naturally dyed fibers and are created by indigenous communities in many states of Mexico. A perfect gift for those who appreciate the time and effort invested in each work of art.

Mexican Vanilla

Mexico is the original producer of vanilla. If you enjoy this delicacy, Mexico is the best place to buy quality vanilla at a lower cost. You can also find vanilla extracts harvested straight from the orchid flower and many other items that include this sweet aroma such as body creams, shampoo, candles and fragrances.

Handmade Mexican Hammocks

It is said that the best hammocks in Mexico are woven by Yucatecan hands using hand-looms. Most Maya descendants in the Yucatan Peninsula sleep in hammocks, not beds. You can buy hammocks almost at every corner and village – markets or stores offer the wildest variety of them. As always, the price will determine the quality of each hammock. You can choose nylon or cotton, tight-weave (for more comfort) of loose-weave, size, color. A great gift that will always suggest a time for relaxation.

So, if you are interested in bringing a souvenir from Mexico, these 5 craft items will be a great buy.