December 2005

Whether they’re into food, literature, entertainment or travel, Elizabeth Mistry has some suggestions that should do the trick.

Under GBP5.00

Corn tortillas (packet of 13) GBP2.50 or Chipotle Salsa (270g) both from the Cool Chile Company. Stall at Borough Market, London. Friday & Saturday only)

Tickets to one of the staged readings of Contemporary Mexican plays at London’s Royal Court Theatre in January 2006 (GBP5 or 3 concessions).
For more information call 020 7565 5000

Under GBP10.00

The Queen of the South - Arturo Perez-Reverte’s gripping epic of narco-violence and female brawn kicks off in Sinaloa, Mexico. (published by Picador).  Great for the plane, the beach - or just if you want to curl up on the sofa after all that turkey…

Under GBP20.00

One Blood - Mexican/US singer Lila Downs’ best album to date, haunting lyrics and superb musical arrangements.

Hunger’s Brides - Paul Anderson’s epic life of Mexican mystic and poet, Sor Juana - with a contemporary twist. Published by Constable and Robinson 
The Hummingbird’s Daughter by Luis Urrea - Mexicanwave’s Book of the Year is a beautifully crafted fable set in northern Mexico in the run up to the revolution. Sadly only available to UK readers via the internet or by placing an order with your bookseller.

Under GBP30.00

For anyone lucky enough to be within striking distance of London, treat them to a meal at Mestizo Restaurant and Tequila Bar - 103 Hampstead Road, London, NW1 3EL
Tel: 020 7387 4064.

Under GBP40.00

Something a bit special from the deseo range of Mexican Silver (OK, so we’re biased, but this is a project close to our heart). 

Under GBP50.00

How about a donation to the Juconi / Railway Children project which works with 350 street children in Puebla?

Above GBP50.00

Why not commission Master craftsman Rafael Alvarez to make you a personal jugetera? 

Every jugetera or lightbox is unique and reflects the owners personality. His work appeared in the movie Man on Fire and film director Pedro Almodovar is a fan.
In the UK contact Cesar at the House of Guadalupe, Camden Market, London. 

And for a gift they won’t forget…

A return flight to Mexico City with British Airways (from GBP637.00 including tax). 

Three nights in the capital’s hippest new hotel, Condesa df (double rooms from U$195 per night plus taxes)  Each room is slick and span - and come with a bedside iPod.