Whenever you go cultural shopping in Acapulco you are taking part in a very uncommon experience — perhaps even a once in a lifetime experience, if you are not coming back anytime soon. When you shopping in Acapulco are you really buying gifts and collectibles with an eye to culture? Believe it or not, there are American-type shopping malls that cater to tourists who miss the homeland. They may sell records of Nike shoes, or collectibles of your favorite celebrities.
But when you to a once (or maybe twice) in a lifetime vacation in the beautiful, tropical paradise of Acapulco, then why not shop for something more unique? Something that captures the essence of your exotic vacation... something you will never find again, least of all from any shop in America. When you're visiting Mexico you want to find a piece that really captures the essence of Acapulco. And since you cannot take one of the La Quebrada Cliff Divers home with you (though you can always try) you can still find a unique shopping experience touring some fine exotic vacation shops found in shopping plazas like La Diana Circle, Artisan's Mart and Zocalo.
These names are not referring to the actual stores, but rather the authentic Acapulco venues that can present to you cultural collectibles that are really worth buying. Each of these venues, these plazas, offers a variety of shops and malls to choose from. You can go searching for genuine Mexican souvenirs, or jewelry or designer clothing — anything that speaks to you about your personal Acapulco vacation and what the trip has meant to you.
La Diana Circle is one of the major "traffic" circles in Acapulco walking traffic and can lead you to many shop and restaurants. There is also the Lo Costera, the main avenue of Acapulco and home to some of the largest shops and malls you will find in the city. The more mainstream market El Zocalo is found downtown and has hundreds of more shops selling everything that speaks of an Acapulco vacation — from clothes to collectibles, crafted objects and sentimental gifts. The Artisans Mall is truly the most unique venue and offers tourists hundreds of artistically designed collectibles, from handicrafts to Mexican art, paintings, toys, pi—atas, and clay figures. You can also check out shopping venues like the Plaza Bahia and the La Gran Plaza. There is no end to the craftsmanship and artistry you will find in Acapulco cultural shopping.
Keep in mind when you shop in Acapulco you can bargain for the price of every item. Bargaining is a custom in Mexico. You're not just paying for the manufactured object... you are buying someone's art, a piece of their own heart and mind. Negotiate and show respect for the person's craft. Start by asking half the price they suggest or that you are willing to pay. This begins the negotiation process. Smile, and be friendly with the vendors! Remember that your gift giving experience is a celebration of your Acapulco vacation. Choose something meaningful this time around!
