Anyone Wanna Buy a Guinea Pig?

If you are in the market for guinea pigs, rabbits, panama hats (actually made in Ecuador) or just opportunities to sneak photos of locals sporting the latest trends in indigenous wear, then the weekly town markets are the best place to hit. I visited the largest market in Otavalo on a Saturday and a local market in Sasquili on a Thursday. Since I had no plans or room to buy anything, I just watched and admired economics at work. The live animal section seemed to be the most popular and although tempted to pet some of the furry creatures, I didn't; I might have become too attached. Instead, I watched the prospective buyers squeeze the animals to check to see how much meat they had on their bones and inspect them for overall quality.


After awhile, I made my way to the local fruit and meat market conveniently located right next to each other. Again no interest to buy, but instead I gawked at how much meat can hang from one stand and yet I wasn't totally grossed out by the sight. Though, the sight of the fried pig did make me stop for a second and gag.



The rest of the time, I took photos of the local fashion. I especially liked this couple's matching hats.