Hong Kong, Mongkok
Ladies Market
Mongkok meaning "busy corner" is said to be Hong Kong's most
famous market. You can find anything and everything there, although its specialty lies in clothing. Flooded with fakes, everything
here is produced in China so you're sure to score yourself a good
deal. There are two main parts to the market. The first is the
street stalls where the vendors are regular residents. These veterans are not 'hawkers' so don't expect to get a good bargain.
These stalls line both sides of the street. The second part to the
market is the shops themselves which offer a great range of items
at a slightly larger scale. Here you can work on your bargaining
skills as owners are more negotiable about prices. The hustle and
bustle of this marketplace will be sure to keep you on your toes!
Source: www.gohongkong.about.com
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Thailand, Ratchaburi
This market was established for the purpose of King Rama IV wanting to connect the Taachin and Maklong rivers through a channel in
an effort to protect the future economy of his people. Every day the
Damnoen Saduak floating market place is full of merchants floating
around in their rowing boats and exchanging goods. It is mainly produce that is sold and purchased here such as fruits and vegetables.
Women can be seen cooking noodles on small gas fires at the back
of their boats which make for a delightful breakfast. It is up to you
whether you want to hire a boat and travel down the canal to get a
good look at each stall. Or you can stroll along the banks and beckon
the shopkeeper of the boats over to you. All the reviews recommend
you take a boat to experience the complete exoticness of it all. The
floating market is the main attraction but there are also restaurants
and shops set up along the river bank which you can explore after
your boat trip.
Sources: www.asiatravel.com,
www.hotelclub.com, www.bangkok.com
Hungary, Budapest
Great Central Market
This is the largest indoor market in Budapest. There is a lot of history contained within the
walls of this market. A fire destroyed the roof when it was first being built in 1896 delaying
its opening until the following year. When it did manage to open it was considered among
the finest and most modern covered markets on the continent. One of its features was a
canal running through the centre to allow goods to be delivered to market traders via a
barge. Wholesale retail, and food and produce were sold in the stalls. During World War II,
the building suffered extensive damage again and in a hasty effort to rebuild it, shortcuts
were taken. The shortcuts resulted in the building being deemed too hazardous and it
was closed in 1991. During the 1990's the building was restored properly to its bright and
colourful self. With three-stories of stalls it's no wonder this 100 year old building is one of
the busiest markets in the city!
Source: www.aviewoncities.com
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