"Mantenen sus mochilas en frente de ustedes," said the cab driver as he let us off in Durrago Square (a central point in the San Telmo neighborhood). We got out of the cab, and our driver gestured again that we should hold our backpacks close, and keep our eyes peeled for pickpockets.
I said "Gracias," assured him we would be careful, and we made our introduction to the Sunday Market.
I've been playing a little more with my Spanish over the last couple days, and am finally starting to get a little more confidence (I even argued an accidental false charge on a bill!) It seems like, when you open up, everyone else does too--especially the cab drivers, who have lots of advice for friendly tourists.
Fortunately, we already knew to be careful at the San Telmo Market. Not because there was anything violent to worry about, but because it is pick-pocket central. Fortunately, we didn't have any problems at the market, other than paying too much for bad food at a cafe along the way.
Walking the San Telmo Market
I've been to a lot of flea markets in the Bay, and they are not my thing. The only thing I really like there is the kettle corn.
But this market was so vibrant, and interesting and HUGE - - it went on for blocks and blocks in every direction, and there were so many unique items at ridiculously low prices. I am not sure how to describe the environment, it's one part Mexico, one part Europe, so sort of an odd mix for someone like me who's been to both places, and has a very different opinion of each.
I replaced my broken Nine West glasses with $4 RayBans, and picked up a few cool gifts. I am not sure if the glasses I bought are real RayBans, but the lenses are so good it doesn't even matter.
We found leather placemats and belts and purses for $2-$10-$20, really interesting art, clothes, jewelry and more. There was so much to see, and such crazy bargains, we could have spent much more time there, but the beating sun took us away. (I think my body is just permanently overheated at this point.)
That aside, this is really a cool thing to go see in Buenos Aires, I'd highly recommend it as a place to see a really interesting side of the city.
