One standard that travelers can count on regardless of where they happen to be is Coca-Cola. A sip of Coke always tastes the same, right? Well, that depends on the sophistication level of your palate. Just south of the border, the soda is made with cane sugar instead of corn syrup and sold in vintage-looking glass bottles. Coca-Cola hecho en México has a cult-like following among folks who swear they can taste the difference. $35.95 for a 24-pack (plus shipping). www.beveragesdirect.com

During the early 18th century, missionaries brought colorful beads to the Sierra Madre Mountains with hopes of warming the native Huichol Indians. Christianity didn’t catch on among the Huichol, but the beads have become part of their culture. Beadwork bowls and figurines tend to reflect Huichol spiritual symbolism, including jaguars, turtles, eagles and peyote. Santos Bautista created this fierce-looking cat for sale through Peyote People, a fair trade co-operative. Santos Bautista jaguar (22 inches long, 6 inches tall and 3 inches wide), $365. www.peyotepeople.com

Lotería, a bingo-type game, has been a party standard at Mexican carnivals for centuries. A childhood of playing the game of chance and growing up among agave fields in Jalisco inspired artist Marina Pallares’ “Lotería Tequilera” series. Each piece in the collection represents a Lotería card while incorporating the agave or the tequila made from it. El Tren (about 6 inches wide by 8 inches long), $64.95. www.novica.com

Buying silver jewelry while in Taxco is a must for many Mexican travelers. Here, artisans hand-craft pieces they’ve designed themselves, assuring clients that no one else will sport a duplicate. Julieta Toledo created this contemporary cuff bracelet in the traditional methods. Small carnelian, garnet and peridot gemstones add pops of color to the piece, which measures 2.25 inches wide. Galaxy bracelet, Julieta Toledo collection, $85. www.avilasterling.com