TIJUANA, MEXICO - Viva la Mexico!  The country's zest for life is legendary. 

Long known for margaritas and mariachis, today's Mexico offers much more - including one-of-a-kind shopping.
In layman's lingo, Mexico is a destination where one with champagne taste can shop on a tequila pocketbook.  Good deals abound. And the quality is there, if you know where to look.

As a San Diego resident, I cross the border into Tijuana on a regular basis. 
I have for years.  Initially it was for the libations and the country's celebrated festivity.  But in recent years shopping, really good shopping, has been the draw.

A Tijuana merchant shows off his wares. (Cynthia Dial for ITD)

However, while 'deals' are found in and around Avenida Revolucion (the city's main drag), a Mexican deal may not always be just that.  Beware of
temptations.  "Silver chains.  Two da-lar, two da-lar," a street vendor may chant.
My advice is to bypass sidewalk salesmen and head into a store (but not just any store) to eye and buy their wares . . . and for possible guidance.

Emporium (813 Ave. Revolucion) is a long time favorite.  The 48-year-old store sells premium Mexican items like rare leather nativity sets (starting
at $27) and Ken Edwards pottery (again rare) made from Tonala clay. 

Owner Jesus Manrique gladly directs visitors to other top quality merchants.
Hand Art (1040-B Ave. Revolucion) is the city's only store specializing in hand-embroidered tablecloths, blouses and dresses.
El Campanario (952 Ave. Revolucion) features glassware, pottery and religious artifacts from Mexico's art regions including Puebla (pottery) and
Mexico City (pewter).

Breaking my own rule, I frequently stop at El Sol Azteca (8207 Third Ave and Ave. Revolucion).  It's not a storefront (rather an alcove) but sells silver from Taxco (Mexico's silver capital) at very good prices.  Its best buy is an $82, 10-strand silver heart necklace (a copy of Tiffany's $400 piece).