Tenejapa, Chiapas
Yesterday was market day in Tenejapa, a TzoTzil pueblo about 25 km NE of San Cristobal. After some yummy cochinita tacos for breakfast (slow-roasted, seasoned, pulled-pork) I found my way thru the San Cristobal Mercado to the street where the Tenejapa collectivo taxis ($2 ea way) depart. A wait of about 10 minutes filled the taxi with the other 3 necessary passengers and we set off on the picturesque drive past pine forests and farms where tzotzil Indians raise the long haired sheep that provide their interesting, furry attire.
Tenejapa has a small square with a church and several streets heading each direction – one of which was brimming with weekly market. There were the usual goods – pirated CDs, veggies, shoes and underwear, etc. Since there are no/few tourists (except me on this day) I was left alone and not barraged with souvenir offers. All the merchants had straw and leather bags to carry their wares and I coveted one out loud – so it was emptied of its beans and sold to me. Later, in the san cristobal market, I found similar bags that were new but I like the smoky smell and irregular color of the one I bought – earned thru use.
I do like being back in MX. While chicken buses are a fun experience, I like the collectivos that are common in MX. I also like the music and, of course, the food. I’ve heard Chiapas is the poorest state in MX, but there is no denying there is a better standard of living compared to Guatemala. I also understand this is damning it with faint praise. Regardless, I look forward to exploring the area more in the coming days!
Tags: central america, Chiapas, mexico, Mexico, san cristobal, Tenejapa, Travel, TzoTzil
Peggy Rehm