
Shopping on Isla Mujeres is definitely tempting and tourists are often captivated by the colors and textures of the many interesting items for sale. Shopping seems to be the main pastime here; browsing, examining items, inquiring, trying them on, and even imagining how they would look on a shelf or table back home. Shoppers allured by the variety of goods on offer are sure to enjoy a bit of friendly bargaining with the local salespeople.
The architecture of Isla Mujeres has a distinct Caribbean feel, the houses are one or two stories high with brightly painted facades that stand out against the cobbled streets and the intense blue hues of the sea and sky, like a beautiful picture postcard.
Due to the thriving commercial activity, downtown Isla Mujeres is like a huge market displaying an array of items that exemplify Caribbean art such as necklaces made of coral, sea shells and rocks, small containers with white sand and snails, and numerous other items.
The shops on Isla Mujeres feature Mexican art from different parts of the country ranging in style and price, from Oaxacan black pottery, to fine Talavera ceramics from Puebla, and sarapes or blankets from Saltillo to delicate silver items from Taxco. There is also handmade bark paper, and utilitarian wooden objects and basketry. In addition, there are a couple of art galleries that sell original paintings and sculptures by local as well as foreign artists. Jewelry stores with fine silver and gold pieces made both in Mexico and abroad, and boutiques that carry perfumes, clothing and designer sunglasses, completes the list of stores on offer.
The best thing about shopping on Isla Mujeres is that you can really get a lot for your money. If you look around and bargain with the store owners, you can get quite a few items for a very reasonable price, which will definitely make memorable gifts of your trip.