If you visit a country, do not restrict yourself to just the tourist spots. Take a look at the local markets too. May be not just to shop, but also find the very essence of the place, its people, and what they hold dear. Every place has a special market and it gives you a glimpse of their exotic cuisine, handicraft, and culture. Let’s take a look at some of them.
Thailand has the Maeklong Railway Market, which is said to be the most dangerous in the world. Strangely, it is located on an active railway line, and is an hour away from Bangkok. In this market, you will find fresh produce, seafood, sweets, and Thai garments.
Closer home is the Chandni Chowk, in Old Delhi. In this market, you get everything you want. From spices to saris to silverware - you name it, and its here.
Located in the historic centre of Cairo, Egypt is the Khan Al-Khalili medieval open-air market. It has 900 shops selling glassware, traditional jewellery, souvenirs, spices and more.
JUKUNGS JOSTLING EACH OTHER FOR BUYERS: Get there before sunrise to get some great buys and good photographs.
If you are in Marrakech, Morocco, then pay a visit to Jemaa el-Fnaa. You can see flute playing snake charmers and monkey performers, henna tattoo artists, sufi and Gnawa performances. UNESCO declared Jemaa el-Fnaa a “Masterpiece of World Heritage” because it has brought oral history to life through artistic expression.
MOONLIGHT SQUARE: This 17th century market was built by Shah Jahan, the Mughal Emperor. Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Banjarmasin, Indonesia, is known for its 1000 rivers. So, unsurprisingly, it is known for its massive floating market. Small shop boats ply the Barito and Kuin rivers selling their wares. The traders use “jukung,” wooden Indonesian outrigger canoes, to showcase fresh produce, fruits, and seafood.
STUNNING ISLAMIC ARCHITECTURE: Take time to admire bright coloured fabrics, watch artists create beautiful pieces in front of you or break off to enjoy a warm cup of Arabic coffee in one of old cafes.
Beautifully woven garments, rugs and hammocks hang from the many shops at Chichicastenango, one of the largest markets in Central America. Situated high in the jungle covered highlands of Guatemala, this market is a kaleidoscope of colours.
TRIANGULAR SHAPED MARKET: Taste the mouthwatering Moroccan delicacies sold at hundreds of stalls and shop around for Arabic souvenirs sold in glittery, bright stores.
The best way to experience Turkish culture and architecture is to visit the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul. This magnificent 15th century covered market is said to have inspired modern shopping malls. The bazaar also hosts two hamams or Turkish baths, restaurants and cafes.
ONE OF THE LARGEST MARKETS IN CENTRAL AMERICA: Traditional textiles, striking masks, wooden carvings, and pottery to fresh produce and fruits are all on sale.
The Gold Souk in Dubai, United Arab Emirates known for its genuine gold jewellery; Izmailovsky Market, the fairytale-like market in Moscow, Russia; the Witches Marjet in La Paz paying homage to its rich Wiccan culture; and the mystic Mercado de Sonora in the centre of Mexico are all unique and different from anything you have ever seen before.
MORE THAN 50 VAULTED PASSAGE WAYS: Housing 4000 shops.
