Tonala, Guadalajara

Yesterday we made a day trip into Tonala, a large craft center, which is on the outskirts of Guadalajara. Our friend Don, who had not been there yet, came along for the ride. Tonala has many, many small shops selling all kinds of home decoration, furniture, pottery etc. Much of it is made in the area. Thursdays and Sundays are market days where the number of vendors doubles as they set up in the streets and on the sidewalks like a flea market. Tonala is about a 1 1/2 hour drive from where we live but it is mostly urban driving into Guadalajara. We spent the morning walking around, made a few purchases and by 12:30 it was lunch time. We had lunch at a local restaurant, El Rincon Del Sol, which was recommended by a friend. The food was good and we left happy.

Words fail when trying to describe the place so here are a few random photos that I snapped as we wandered around to show the variety of "Mexicana" available. The photo's are in no particular order.

Hanging stars made from punched tin.

Lacquer paintings on metal.

Wind chimes?

Don having a look at some pottery and wall hangings.

There were lots of pottery shops

Interesting entrance to a gallery

Browsing the shop fronts.

Many people live above their shop.

Pottery and wall decorations a la Mexicano.

Lots of bright Colors.

Just the thing to put into that colorful vase you just bought.

Gazing balls for the garden.

Fruit anyone? It looks good enough to eat...

More bright pots.

and more...

Here we are wandering the endless vendor stalls in the outdoor section.

Pots, pots and more pots.

Mexican Sun decorations for the wall complete with clock.

Gurgling fountains.

Yes, hats and hollow string balls for creating a hanging lamps. I am not sure of the connection between those two items. Probably none.

A little bit of everything at this place.

Charcoal BBQ's in all shapes and sizes.

Nice door front. Unfortunately there was lots of graffiti to be seen.

Canterra stone fountains and carvings for sale here.

Fiddling Frogs

A knight in red armor protecting the pretty lady...

The view down a side street

I think this was a small restaurant but I am not totally sure. Nice Mural.

Water dispensers and wall art.

There was lots of colorfull glassware and hanging lamps,

And finally

We ended with lunch and headed home soon afterwards.

Rick and Barbara