Let's go shopping!

Ranchero's Market of El Paso Texas

For this first week of field work, I chose to observe customers at the Ranchero's Market in El Paso, Texas. This is a Mexican cultured market located in the lower valley part of town.  The demographics of this market were quite interesting. There were mostly middle to elderly women shopping. Most of these women appeared to be from some type of Mexican/ Hispanic decent. Many of them had children with them. It appeared that most of them were shopping for either a feast or dinner due to the size of their purchases.

When I pulled up to the market, there were people in the parking lot selling all types of Mexican food: Tamales, Tacos, Enchiladas, Burritos, Flautas, Chimichangas and so much more. The prices of the food being sold were very reasonable between $1 and $6.  There was a man who was roasting Jalapenos on the side of the store. There was a small local band called the Los Amigos playing instruments outside. As soon as I entered the market I heard Mexican music such as: Ranchera, Mariachi, Bolero, Banda, Cumbia, Sones and classical traditional Mexican music.

There were all types of vendors within this market. I found that to be quite interesting due to the fact I am use to the “American” style stores. There were booths that sold clothing, electronics, Mexican candy and deserts, beverages like Horchata and Jamaica juice, and so much more. The atmosphere was very relaxing and intriguing due to the fact it was all so very new to me. I smelt scents I have never smelt before, I tried foods I never eaten before and heard things I never heard. The main language that was being spoken was Spanish. I have taken Spanish before but this was on a whole different level! These people were speaking so fast it was remarkable I couldn’t even begin to grasp it.

I continued to walk through the market and explore. Most people were dressed in modern day clothes except this one elderly woman I came across who was dressed in a traditional house dress and sandals. To some this might have seemed normal but to me it caught my eye. I felt like I was literally in another country! I really enjoyed observing and exploring. This experience has helped me to remain being open minded and accepting. I will always remember this opportunity and share it with others. I am looking forward to more discoveries such as this. It was truly a culture shock that occurred right in my own city of 20 years. What an excellent experience!