Travel — Mexico City
I Went to Mexico City’s Most Dangerous Tianguis
Is it really not safe to visit?
When I shared my desire to visit Tianguis Langunilla with my friends, their response was immediate and stern.
“This place is right next to Tepito,” they warned. “It’s considered a dangerous neighborhood in Mexico City. You might get robbed.”
I’ll admit, their words did give me pause for thought. My friends meant well, and I couldn’t ignore the neighborhood’s bad reputation. However, I’ve always believed that no place is entirely safe or unsafe. It’s all about reminding me that no matter where I go, I need to be as safe as possible while still enjoying the experiences that a destination has to offer.
So I decided to put aside their warnings and expectations. I wanted to see it for myself, to get my own perspective on Tianguis Langunilla beyond the rumors I’d heard.
This unique market, nestled in the heart of the Lagunilla neighborhood, opens every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. To avoid the crowds, I opted for an early visit. I hopped on Metrobus Line 7, disembarking at Gloria Cuitlahuac. As soon as I stepped off the double-decker bus, the bustling ambiance of the flea market got me, with vendor stalls lining the streets as far as the eye could see.
I started by taking a leisurely stroll through the antique stalls. Each one was filled with rare paintings, delicate Chinese bowls, and intricately crafted statues made from wood and stone. The sight was amazing, and I found myself in a constant feeling of awe, surrounded by these precious antique treasures.
Venturing deeper into the market, the lively sounds of reggaeton filled the air. I reached the street food stall area, where the variety of food was tantalizing, and I couldn’t resist having the Micheladas, a Tianguis icon. For those who don’t know the Michelada, it is a Mexican beverage made up of beer, lime juice, numerous chili-based sauces, spices, and chili peppers and served in a salt-rimmed glass.
As I continued to explore, I was drawn to second-hand items, including vintage clothing and printed t-shirts. Trust me, the further you delve into this Tianguis, the better the deals you’ll find.
However, it’s important to come prepared with cash and a knack for bargaining. There were moments when I couldn’t help but raise an eyebrow at the asking price, as some items seemed a bit overpriced.
My walking ended with the unmistakable tones of live music reached my ears. I followed the sound to a tiny square where a good band was performing. I was drawn in by the rhythm of the music and the energetic surroundings, and I quickly found myself amidst a crowd of people dancing and swaying to the beat.
So, based on my firsthand experience, I’d say this Tianguis is quite safe to visit; the police presence is apparent but you should still be cautious of your surroundings and belongings. And I think this is the coolest Tianguis I’ve ever been to.
Thank you for reading this story ❤
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