Quito Shopping Tips by swesn

From Plaza de Santo Domingo, walk along Rocafuerte in the north-westernly direction for about 3 or 4 blocks and turn left.

Here is the indigenous market area where all sort of exotic herbs, barks, leaves, seeds… are sold to be used as whatever form of medication used by the indigenous people.

We even passed a shop where shamans dispense treatments for Mal Aire (Bad Air), Ojeada (the Evil Eye), or Baño para la Suerte (Lucky Bath), etc…

Try these local treatments, if you are game for it. *gulp*



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Theme: Other
Directions: Around junction where Calle Rocafuerte meets Calle Cuenca

Just like Mexico City has La Ciudadela Artisan Market, Quito's equivalent... albeit less lively, atmospheric, smaller and memorable... is La Mariscal Artisan Market.

In northern Ecuador, Otavalo is certainly THE place to satisfy all your woolly needs. But if you want to get souvenirs of other kinds or if you are not heading to Otavalo, then La Mariscal Artisan Market is a great place to make your purchases.

While you will certainly find woolly sweaters, hats, etc..., you will also find other crafts made from wood, bags, paintings, etc... The reproductions of Guayasamin's paintings are certainly found in abundance here.



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Theme: Local Craft
Address: Washington, between JL Mera and Reina Victoria
Directions: Within walking distance from 'Galo Plaza' or 'Casa de la Cultura' 'ecovia' stations

I certainly recommend this interesting shop located under the San Francisco church.

Once you enter, you feel like you are in some sort of dungeonsor catacombs. The things on display are artworks including ceramics, metallic pieces, masks, etc... inspired by pre-Columbian style, but many done with a modern twist. Indeed, the artworks are fantastic.

I understand this is run by a nonprofit organization that supports indigenous and mestizo artisan groups. While the prices are not souvenir-cheap, the pieces are certainly of higher quality and more unique. Do make some purchases support the local people.

Even if you do not or are unable to buy anything, you should still drop by for a meander around the ancient catacombs.



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Theme: Art
Address: Under San Francisco church

For very modern and hip shopping, go to the New New City that is even further north of Mariscal Sucre.

Centro Comerical El Jardin is a thoroughly gigantic and modern shopping mall, complete with hypermarket and many lovely chic cafes and restaurants. Once in here, you would forget that colonial Quito (which is merely half an hour away by Trole) exists.



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Theme: Department Store
Directions: Take the Trole and get off at 'Mariana de Jesus' stop and walk along Calle Mariana de Jesus westward and turn to Av Amazonas northwards