Not For Tourists: Guambiano Market in Silvia

Thought that I would share some interesting photos from a little trip we took to Silvia, Colombia where we got to witness an indigenous market in action.  This was definately not a market geared for tourists, as the things that were sold were mostly potatoes, onions, fruits, and yarn, which the women make by spinning wool by hand.  But it was a joy to walk around and watch people interact with each other in their native tounge.  The native language is hard to describe; many of the syllables are cut short from the back of the throat (instead of with the tongue or mouth like most western languages) which gives it a decidedly choppy sound, but it is still a wonder to hear.  In general, the Guambianos went about as if we weren't there, probably due to shyness, but were really warm and friendly when we talked to them in Spanish.  This is a story better told by pictures, so here are some of the best shots we got:

I should note here that just because the Guambianos were traditional clothing, it does not mean that they are separated from modern society.  We saw several Guambianos using cell phones and I overheard a transtaction of several Guambiano men buying a TV.  And why not?  Just because they hold on to some traditional ways of life doesn't mean that they have to completely do away with everything modern.