20 Mexican Pesos: What Can You Buy?
What's up, guys! Ever wondered what you can snag with just 20 Mexican pesos? It might not sound like a lot, but trust me, this little stash of cash can get you some surprisingly cool stuff in Mexico. We're talking about everything from delicious street food to small souvenirs that'll remind you of your awesome trip. So, let's dive into the world of the 20 peso coin and see what kind of adventures it can unlock for you. It's always good to know the local currency, right? Especially when you're looking to experience the authentic vibe of a place.
Street Food Delights Under 20 Pesos
When you're exploring Mexico, one of the absolute best ways to experience the culture is through its street food. And guess what? Your trusty 20 pesos can be your golden ticket to a culinary adventure! For under 20 pesos, you can often grab a couple of tacos al pastor, that iconic Mexican delight with marinated pork shaved right off the spit, topped with pineapple, onion, and cilantro. Seriously, guys, the flavor explosion is unreal! Or maybe you're craving something a bit different? How about esquites or elotes? These are typically corn-based snacks, with elotes being corn on the cob and esquites being the corn kernels served in a cup. For 20 pesos, you can usually get a generous cup of esquites loaded with mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime. It's the perfect snack to munch on while you're people-watching in a bustling plaza. Don't forget about gorditas and sopes either! These are masa-based dishes, often fried or griddled and then topped with various goodies like beans, cheese, and salsa. A single gordita or sop might be all you need, and they're usually super affordable, easily fitting within our 20 peso budget. And for those with a sweet tooth? Keep an eye out for vendors selling dulces tÃpicos (typical sweets). You can often pick up a few bags of assorted candies or small pastries for around 20 pesos. Think ate (fruit paste), cocadas (coconut candies), or churros. The key here, guys, is to look for the busy street stalls – that's usually where you'll find the best quality and the most authentic flavors, all while keeping your wallet happy. Remember, haggling isn't really a thing with street food, but the prices are already so low, you won't feel the need to.
Small Souvenirs and Trinkets
Now, let's talk souvenirs. While 20 pesos might not buy you a fancy piece of silver jewelry, it can definitely get you some charming little mementos to remember your trip by. Think about those small, locally made crafts that capture the spirit of Mexico. You can often find keychains with vibrant Mexican designs, like tiny sombreros, colorful papel picado, or even miniature versions of famous landmarks. These are perfect for stocking stuffers or just a little something to add to your own collection. Keep an eye out for small, hand-painted magnets too! They often feature traditional Mexican art, lucha libre wrestlers, or iconic animals like jaguars and parrots. They’re a classic and affordable way to decorate your fridge and bring a piece of Mexico home. Another great find could be postcards featuring stunning Mexican landscapes or intricate folk art. You can pick up a few of these for 20 pesos, maybe even with enough left over for a stamp if you plan on sending them the old-fashioned way. Sometimes, you can stumble upon small bracelets or anklets made with colorful threads or simple beads. These are often handmade by local artisans and carry a lovely, bohemian vibe. If you're lucky, you might even find small, decorative tiles or mini-mosaics that showcase traditional Mexican patterns. These aren't usually the large, Talavera-style ones, but smaller, more decorative pieces. Don't underestimate the markets, guys! Even in touristy areas, there are often stalls dedicated to smaller, more budget-friendly items. The trick is to be patient and browse. You might have to sift through a few things, but you're bound to find a unique little treasure that speaks to you, all for the low price of 20 pesos. It’s all about the charm and the memory, not the price tag, right?
Refreshments and Snacks on the Go
Feeling a bit thirsty or need a quick energy boost? Your 20 Mexican pesos can totally help you out with that! Mexico has an amazing array of refreshing drinks and snacks that are perfect for a hot day or when you're on the move. For instance, you can often buy a bottle of water or a small soda from a convenience store or a street vendor for well under 20 pesos. This is essential for staying hydrated, especially when you're doing a lot of walking and exploring. If you're looking for something a bit more traditional, keep an eye out for vendors selling aguas frescas. These are delicious, non-alcoholic beverages made from fruits, flowers, or grains. Popular flavors include horchata (rice milk with cinnamon), jamaica (hibiscus tea), and tamarindo (tamarind). A cup of agua fresca is usually very affordable, and you can definitely get one for 20 pesos or less. It's a much healthier and more authentic alternative to sugary sodas! For a small snack, you can often find bags of chips, cookies, or crackers in corner stores for around 20 pesos. These are great for a quick bite when you're not ready for a full meal. Sometimes, you might even find small packs of nuts or dried fruit. And let's not forget the simple pleasures! A single ice cream cone or a small paleta (Mexican popsicle) can often be purchased for around 20 pesos, providing a delightful cool-down treat. These are especially common in parks and public squares. So, whether you need to quench your thirst or satisfy a mild hunger pang, your 20 pesos can provide a satisfying and affordable solution, keeping you fueled for further adventures.
Transportation - Short Distances
Okay, guys, let's talk about getting around. While 20 pesos won't get you a long-distance bus ticket, it can certainly help you cover short distances using local transportation. In many cities and towns across Mexico, the local bus system is incredibly affordable. A single ride on a local bus, especially within a specific neighborhood or to a nearby attraction, can often cost just a few pesos. This means your 20 pesos could potentially cover several short bus trips, allowing you to hop between points of interest without breaking the bank. Just make sure you have smaller denominations, as drivers might not always have change for larger bills on these short, cheap rides. Another option for very short distances, particularly in smaller towns or specific tourist areas, is a local taxi or a colectivo (shared taxi/van). While a full taxi ride might exceed 20 pesos, sometimes you can negotiate a very short trip, like just a few blocks, for this amount, especially if you're not in a super touristy zone or during off-peak hours. Colectivos are even more budget-friendly, as they operate on set routes and charge per person. A short ride on a colectivo could very well fall within the 20 peso range. It’s important to clarify the price before you get in, though, to avoid any surprises. Remember, this is for very localized travel. Think of it as using your 20 pesos to get from your hotel to the nearest market, or from a museum back to a main street. It's about making those little connections that save your feet and your time, all thanks to a modest amount of Mexican currency. It’s a great way to feel like a local, navigating the streets just like everyone else.
Miscellaneous Small Purchases
Beyond food, souvenirs, and transport, what else can you get with 20 Mexican pesos? Well, it really depends on where you are and what's available, but there are always those little miscellaneous items that can come in handy or just be a fun little buy. For instance, in a small corner store, or tienda, you might be able to purchase a small notebook and pen. These are super useful if you're journaling your travels or just need to jot down directions. Sometimes, you can find small packs of tissues or wet wipes, which are always handy to have, especially after indulging in some delicious street tacos! If you're in a more tourist-oriented area, you might find very small, basic religious artifacts, like a tiny St. Christopher medal or a small prayer card, often sold near churches or in small souvenir shops. These can be meaningful mementos for some travelers. For the kids (or the kid in you!), 20 pesos might get you a single, small toy from a street vendor – think a bouncing ball, a simple spinning top, or some colorful stickers. It's not high-end, but it's a fun little distraction. In some places, you might even be able to buy a single cigarette or a very small pack, though this is less common and might vary greatly by region. If you're into collecting things, keep an eye out for unique stamps or coins from Mexico, though finding anything valuable for 20 pesos would be pure luck – it’s more about the novelty. The key takeaway, guys, is that 20 pesos represents a small, flexible amount that allows for spontaneous, small purchases. It’s the currency of little treats, everyday necessities, and charming, inexpensive keepsakes. It’s the pocket change that adds a little extra flavor to your day.
So there you have it, guys! Your 20 Mexican pesos is more powerful than you might think. It's a ticket to delicious bites, a small token of your travels, a way to stay refreshed, and even a way to get around town for short hops. It really gives you a taste of the everyday life and economy in Mexico. Keep an eye out for those opportunities, and enjoy exploring with your handy 20 pesos!
