The charming carts open to reveal unique merchandise — Photo courtesy of Kristin Busse

Everyone likes to do a bit of shopping when they're on vacation, and let's face it, some people like to do a lot of shopping when they're on vacation. If you're in Cancun and you've visited the market, the malls and the boutiques in your resort, maybe you'd like to try someplace different; perhaps Parque las Palapas (Palapas Park) in downtown Cancun?

Most Mexican towns and cities have a central square or park, and Parque las Palapas is the main park in Cancun. On weekend evenings, families and friends gather in the park and enjoy the various events held there. They also eat traditional Mexican food like tacos, aguas frescas, quesadillas, and churros.

Where does the shopping come in? Small wooden carts sit all around the edge of the park, and when the hot Cancun sun starts to make its descent, the carts open to display lovely Mexican handicrafts. These are not the typical sombreros and bottles of tequila; the merchandise is unique - think flowing Mexican blouses, paper lamps and bohemian jewelry.

The carts are closed during the day - too hot outside — Photo courtesy of Kristin Busse

To get to Parque las Palapas, take the R1 bus downtown from the Hotel Zone and get off at El Palacio (this is a government building). Tell the bus driver where you're going when you get on the bus and he'll be able to help you. Next, cross Tulum Avenue and walk down pedestrian street Tulipanes (there is a Burger King on the corner) until it ends and you'll run right into Palapas Park.