Here are the ‘budget’ gifts usually bring back from Mexico, and they are sold in Ixtapan de la Sal
(home of Ixtapan Spa):
1- Vanilla. Vanilla is cheap in Mexico, not as sweet as the Asian one but rich and fantastic in things like rice pudding and other creamy foods. Cost: $3 ish
2- Tajin: a mix of sea salt, chili, and desiccated lime. Makes the dullest food taste amazing with a slight pop and a lime aftertaste. All-natural. Cost $1 more or less.
3-Frida Kahlo plastic bags: these carry-alls are adorable, come in bright colors and vibrant plastics. Cost: $4-5 and less in the Sunday market.
4- Seed pearls in natural or colored strands, sold in the daily street market near the hotel. Cost: $10?
5- Clunky glass beads in many colors including those twisted with a gold filament. Cost: $10 ish.
Any or all of these are loved by my pals. So if you do join our discount group Feb. 9-16 2014, I will take you around to find these goodies. Most of our group going is solo, so don’t hesitate if you plan on coming along but without a friend. See more on our site including Vietnam/Cambodia.
