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James and I had visited Otavalo 5 years ago, when we came to Ecuador to visit the Galapagos Islands - but it was a totally transformed place on a Saturday when the entire town becomes a market, and villagers from around the region bring their goods into town for sale.
The animal market (which runs from 4:30 to 9am) was a lively and colourful affair, where cows, pigs, turkeys, chicken, guinea pigs, sheep, pigs and cows were offered for sale. The other markets in the town center include the crafts market (targeting the tourist crowd), a food market, and general wares and knock-off goods (targeting the local crowd). Considering how much I hate shopping, it was quite remarkable that I happily spent 5 hrs strolling around the stalls - it was a truly pleasant experience shopping here, as the vendors really did business with a smile even when you walked away after spending lots of time trying on the goods and bargaining.
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