Crazy shopping in Guayaquil can be found in the massive Bahia market. This market, which spans indoor and outdoor shops, is located at the
south end of the Malecon. While it is not the safest place to be in Guayaquil, it is home to everything you could ever want or need, from jewelry, to high heeled shoes, a camera, a pair of jeans, and a pirated copy of every movie you could ever want.
Bahia is not designed to be an artisan craft market, so don’t expect to find those kinds of creations here, but you can find pretty much everything else. It is kind of like the Chinatown of Guayaquil. Keep your eye out for fakes at this black market.
Don’t be afraid to barter with the merchants, as they usually will go down in price. We all know when they tell us a price, no matter how good our Spanish is, that they are adding the “gringo tax.” So, make sure and ask for a reduced rate.
Tip: Buy multiple items at the same shop. The more things you buy, the greater the discount.
Also, don’t bring anything of value, large sums of money, a camera, or your passport. Pickpocketers are everywhere, and they are targeting you, so hang on tight to your possessions. Also, stick to the more open streets, and walk in groups. The area is well policed, but it is still on the dangerous side. Dont’ go after nightfall.
You will need to bring some cash, because none of the merchants will accept any other form of payment, but bring just about the amount you want to spend, nothing more.


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