:take me to market
French Markets
Markets are the everyday norm in France. It is where locals go to purchase bread,
fish, pastry, cheese and produce. There are over 35,000 traditional markets in
France to choose from. Supermarkets are seen as the oddity while the marketplace is alive and abundant with activity. Although the main product is food there
are also many artisans and craftsman selling their goods at street vendor stalls.
There are various types of markets such as:
• One product markets – these sell a specific product during the appropriate
season
e.g. a fish market.
• Evening markets – these are very popular for tourists during the summer
months where locals eat and party the night away.
• Vide-greniers – these are similar to a garage sale where locals empty out
their attics and sell their excess belongings at cheap prices.
• Flea Markets – these showcase antiques and general used items.
To experience France is to experience their markets so go and join in with the
locals as they purchase their everyday products.
Source: www.francethisway.com
Brazil, Sao Paulo's
Magnificent Municipal Market
Metaphorically described as a 'temple of gastronomy', this great
market is known affectionately as Mercadao meaning 'big market'.
Stained-glass windows illuminate the lines of stalls and restaurants
which the building houses. The building was built specifically for
the purpose of housing the markets which were officially opened in
1933.
The building was scheduled to be finished in the early 1930's but
this was delayed when in 1932 the Constitutionalist Revolution
began and the building served as headquarters for the military and
as a warehouse for arms and ammunition.
The market sells everything from CDs and DVDs (whose legitimacy
may be questionable) through to appliances and washing machines
as well as real and fake designer goods. As you head upstairs you'll
be sure to find something to quench your appetite amongst the
mass of food stalls.
Source: www.flavorsofbrazil.blogspot.co.nz
India, Delhi
Lajpat Nagar Cetral Market
The Lajpat Nagar Central Market is one of the oldest
and most popular shopping areas in the capital.
Open daily (except for Mondays) it becomes abuzz
with shoppers fluttering around stalls and showrooms. A glimpse into Indian culture, everything to
do with this culture can be found here. On offer are
clothes, shoes, bags, accessories and home furnishings. The main attraction at the market is the Mehendiwalas who will apply beautiful henna designs
to your hands with astounding speed. As with most
vibrant market places in India, bargaining is a must
to ensure you get a good deal.
Source: www.goindia.about.com
20 | www.h e rmagaz i n e . c o. n z
