I love visiting markets, as a child my grandmother often took
me and my sister to our local market, so this has stuck with me as a favourite memory.
Today in the UK many of the original indoor markets have closed but these are
now having a revival as well as numerous farmers markets, which I think is
great as this is encouraging local businesses.
In Spain, the markets both inside and outside are a riot of
colour and a buzz of activity, a celebration of the Spanish love of good food
and drink. The array of fresh produce, seafood, meats, breads, delicatessens,
wine, spices, freshly squeezed fruit juices and cheese are wonderful I can smell
the oranges and lemons and fresh bread in my head, It makes me hungry just thinking about it!
Many of the famous markets are tourist attractions however,
the amazing architecture of La Boqueria in Barcelona, with 200 stalls is the
oldest and largest market, and the Art Nouveau inspired Mercado Central in Valencia
are still worth going to see. Perfect to have tapas and a glass of wine or
Hotcha and Churros and watch the world go by and one of the best ways to
observe the local culture.
I try to go to the markets that the locals visit, the produce
is better and there is a chance to practise my language skills: In Mallorca:
Santa Maria Del Cami is a small outdoor market on Sundays with a good selection
of Organic vegetables, the Market in Pollenca also on Sunday is more expensive
but more varied in produce and it’s a beautiful town to visit. Arta, on
Thursdays has an Authentic craft and Artisan market, which is a big step up
from the other weekly markets, which tend to have stock imported from China and
are really just for tourists. If you do go to the larger markets like Inca always haggle because the
prices have been inflated, you could end up paying half the marked price if you
do. The covered markets:Mercat de Oliver in the
centre of Palma and Mercat De Santa Catalina (Food Co-op) are both good markets
for local foods and are surrounded by small eateries. In Madrid, Mercado San
Miguel is a lively market to eat and drink and perfect for the day and evening.
In Malaga the Mercado Central De Atarazanas is away from the main city but well
worth a short walk as this is an upcoming area, with smaller independent shops
and bars and this lively market has a stunning glass arch.
Many hotels and travel companies do offer trips to local
markets but if you can go on your own do, as you will find this to be a much
more authentic experience.
