Huge barn-like stores sit along autopistas throughout Costa Rica. They are called Pequeño Mundo and resemble the complete opposite of their name. It is one huge tin shed with boxes and boxes of clothes, inflatable swimming gear, cheap soap from China (I think everything is from China), and baskets to name just a few items down the long isles.

When it first opened, I had to dig through most of the clothes items that were never put on display. The company has smartened up a little bit and at least hung a good part of the clothes, which makes it easier to look. It is possible to find some pretty good deals, which I am certain is due to the fact that they do come from China and cardboard boxes is the main motif. I do not go often because I always tend to leave spending $40.00. It’s kind of Target in that way. I just go in for a roll of toilet paper and end up needing a cart for all the stuff I can’t live without.

On weekends it is not exaggerating to say it’s crazy like a zoo. And Christmas time? Forget about it. They always have clothes, but the rest is a guessing game. I think the buyer must just pick out of a lottery of “box of stuff” - send to Costa Rica. Somebody will buy it. So if I see something one month I am there, there’s a good chance I’ll never see it again.

Just makes the thrill of shopping in a pull barn so much more exciting.