Mexican Beaded Bracelets

Last week, I had the opportunity to travel to a much warmer climate - I went to Mexico! This was my first time visiting the country and it is just beautiful. It is very much like the paradise I imagined!!

I stayed in Playa del Carmen just south of Cancun. Of course, I went to the beach and did a few touristy excursions (Tulum, Xel-Ha, and snorkeling in Cozumel), but I also did a little shopping on 5th Avenue. Anyone who has already been there knows this is not easy. Bargaining is the name of the game, and everyone is trying to sell you something whether you need it or not. I was shopping for local handmade goods. I found quite a few shops selling many beaded jewelry items! I asked permission to take this photo of some beaded bracelets I saw:

Women who live in the tiny villages of Mexico make this beaded jewelry to support themselves and their families. Any purchase you make helps support the local economy, and is greatly appreciated. So, of course I picked up a few bracelets to take home. Which one do you like best?

On your next visit to Mexico, stop and look at the beadwork. Perhaps you will find something special to take home, too:)