Santa Marta General Shopping

General Shopping

Santa Marta is famous for its fast-talking beach sellers. As one can go to the beach 365 days a year, there are always people wandering up and down the beach selling anything from a song (travelling bands), to doctored photos (such as someone being crushed by a giant foot), to clothes, and even guided tours of the area. The beaches in the northern suburb El Rodadero are known for having aggressive sellers, but see this as an opportunity to haggle! Usually aim for 2000-3000 COP (Pesos) below the asking price. If they truly say they can't sell it for less, then work your way up by increments of 500 pesos until you come to an agreement. Of course, if you don't care for anything, a simple, "No, gracias," will suffice. Something that can come in handy is a 'mochila', a very common woven bag originally used by the Taganga natives to carry marijuana leaves when there was no food. Today they come in many different styles and fashions. Be wary when you have valuables - mochilas have no zippers, and are completely open at the top. Buy Hammocks, Mosquito Repellent, Suntan Lotion at El Miramar Hotel.