Top most interesting things I’ve seen for purchase so far on the streets…

…of Viña

• Hair extensions
  Imagine a cloth laid out on the side walk with individual strands of fake hair displayed for purchase. Straight and curly available.
• Underwear and bras
  Piles and piles on tables, more eye catching pieces are on display hanging from the top of the stands to draw in passers by. One cotton pair I pass on my way home from work has a big heart that says “Sweet Little Lady”.
• Shoelaces
  There is a man with a big rack from which hang over one hundred brightly colored shoelaces. It’s pretty.

…of Valparaíso

• Boxes containing various “As Seen On TV” products
  I think some might’ve been Ped Eggs. I didn’t stop long enough to get a good look for fear of being drawn into conversation about why I should buy one.

…of Santiago

• Monkey Necklaces
  These are small stuffed animal monkeys that have really long arms that wrap around your neck and can be worn like a necklace. When you squeeze them they make noise. Intended for children, but worn and enjoyed by all ages. Also available in white tiger and lion varieties.
• Plastic Masks
  Cartoon characters, superheroes and other famous personas

Of course the standards are also available in all of these cities…

Food: Fruit and veggies, cookies, nuts, sandwiches, empanadas, sopapillas, cotton candy, candied apples, etc.
Clothing: sweaters, pants, shirts, socks, shoes, etc.
Accessories: jewelry, scarves, belts, hats, sunglasses, etc.
Toys
Handmade crafts