Otavalo Market

After sleeping in a little, Betty and her family picked us up for a trip up to Otavalo. The famed market was alive with energy as all the local artisans from the area converged in the central plaza, and many of the adjoining streets of this small town to sell their goods. The traditional clothing and one –on-one interactions take you back in time to an era before 24 hour big box stores and online shopping. There we found textiles, paintings, wooden carvings, clothing, and jewelry, all with a distinctly Ecuadorian feel. Not to mention the array of local spices and street foods, including whole grilled fish and snails by the bag, and great ice cream stands scattered within the bustling walkways. Our guides helped us navigate the market and negotiate for all our treasures. We were able to find several paintings to add to our growing art collection, a few scarves, some little trinkets for people at home, and a jade face mask of the God of Land. I was glad to visit the market on a Saturday, when the market is almost twice the size of the rest of the week. Bring your bartering skills, an empty suitcase, and enjoy all the treasures you are sure to find!