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This is a souvenir hunter's dream. We are talking nearly 500 stalls/shops downstairs plus dozens of art shops along the entire upstairs level. The art is extensive and varied and should cater for all styles. Much better choice than the souvenir shops in town and around the main sights. As regards the ground level, yes it can be a bit repetitive, but it will be worth your while to at least glance round every one of them. I adore shopping for souvenirs so had no trouble doing this and was rewarded to find that something different. Ok so 9 shops may all be selling the same wooden or leather or keyring items but then you find that 1 in 10 shop that has a product none of the others are selling. It takes a trained eye perhaps as on first stroll around it just looks like 125 duplicates of the same 4 shops. Persevere and you will other gems amongst them. The building also has plentiful toilets and snack/drink outlets if you are there a while.…
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Date of experience: March 2020
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Yes, this is a tourist spot, but if you don’t have much time or want one-stop shopping, this is the place for you. I would say there are at least 200 booths many with similar items. But if you look closely you can find some lovely, unique things like good quality leather bags - some painted with scenes of Havana, pearl jewelry and purses and carry-bags made from recycled pop tops. The most interesting booth by far sells antique jewelry and jewelry made from old silver coins. That booth is in the last row closest to the water. The market is worth checking out. An added plus is the hop-n-hop-off bus stops right in front. Since many of us are in Cuba “In support of the Cuban people”, I did not bargain with vendors, though I noticed others did. One of the most important things we can do is to put money the hands of Cubans so they can buy food and supplies for their families.…
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Date of experience: March 2020
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Great place to visit,bargains to be had. Don't settle for the first price.We went back to the trader we saw the day before and got a good deal on the musical items we wanted plus a couple of items thrown in. Lots to see and many duplications. Money exchange onsite at a good rate too. It can be busy.…
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Date of experience: January 2020
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The market sells typical Cuban souvenirs downstairs and upstairs is mostly typical Cuban paintings for tourists but I found an amazing artist by the name of Jesús Lázaro Alfonso Juan. His work is fresh and unlike the other Cuban artists. He told me he has had exhibits in New York and Philly with great success. I pick up two pieces at a fraction of the prices he received in the U.S. I can’t wait to go back to see what else he will have next year.…
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Date of experience: December 2019
1 Helpful vote
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Expected much more, but did not get it, unfortunately. Mass production souvenirs, I’m not sure? Found a one nice soap manufacturer, anyway.
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Date of experience: December 2019
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