Mexico City - Plaza Garibaldi

Two blocks north of Convent of the Conception, between Calles Montero, Ecuador, Allende and Santa María la Redonda, opens up the picturesque Plaza Garibaldi, which can be reached direct from the Palacio de Bellas Artes by way of the northward continuation of Avenida Lázaro Cárdenas. The square is surrounded by cafés and restaurants much favoured by tourists, and in these and in the square itself groups of musicians play folk music. Most of these groups are "mariachis" from Jalisco, dressed in Charro costume and playing trumpets, violins, guitars and the guitarrón or bass guitar. However, there are usually also other groups from Veracruz - in white costumes with straw hats, and playing harps and small guitars - as well as from other regions. Payment is expected for each song, but it is also possible to arrange for a longer performance (bargaining required!) or to hire a group for a private party. Visitors are warned to beware of pickpockets and the like, especially at night when the square is usually crowded.