The best Christmas markets in Paris
Experience the Paris Christmas markets and no other market will ever match up. Parisians take markets very seriously, and the city’s Christmas markets are no different. No matter what you’re looking for, be it fresh food, regional produce, Christmas food, mulled wine, cheese, crafts, jewellery, clothing, Christmas decorations or gifts, you will be spoilt for choice at the Paris Christmas markets. Inspired by the way nearby Germany embraces Christmas, France’s tradition of Christmas markets originated in the Alsace region, and the products sold at the Paris Christmas markets come from all over the country. Paris is popular year-round, but the iconic wooden chalets clustered together to form the traditional Christmas…
Eumundi Markets, the best markets in Australia
Hidden away in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, the small settlement of Eumundi has the most interesting market I have seen in all of Australia. The market showcases local produce, with an eclectic array of arts and crafts, and is a must-see during a visit to the Sunshine Coast. Following the mantra “Make it, bake it, design it, sew it or grow it”, the Eumundi Markets are a celebration of the talents of the local community. There are over 500 stalls, spread across three different sites, all within walking distance from each other, within Eumundi. Eumundi Square To the north of Napier Street, several small shops are built to form a…
Delights of the Siem Reap Night Markets
“This good size for you” said the smiling lady in the market as I handed over a few dollars for a pair of elephant trousers (the standard loose cotton trousers of Asia). I had found a pair I liked the colour of, and with no changing room available thought they looked about right; they were meant to be loose, so an exact fit wasn’t necessary. It was only when I got back to the hotel and tried them on that I realised that, while I could get into them, they were only a good size for me if I didn’t move, eat or breathe. Ah! Well aware of the clothing…
Weekend Markets in Sydney
I was surprised how much Sydney comes alive with markets at weekends. If you’re prepared to rummage finds can vary from vintage second hand clothing bargains to unique handcrafted goods and even a set of crocodile jaws. Here are my favourite Sydney weekend markets. The Rocks For character, a bit of history and the marvel of having a market tucked under the Sydney Harbour Bridge head to the market at the Rocks on Friday, Saturday or Sunday. The market swells around the northern end of George Street and has a strong focus on arts, crafts and collectibles but also features random things like Turkish ceramics and crocodile jaws. There are…
The French Market of New Orleans
The French Market in New Orleans is the oldest marketplace in the USA. It is stuffed full of fascinating finds and lively people. It is one of my favourite markets for its diversity and spirit. It is definitely a market worth visiting. Just inland from the Mississippi River, the French Market forms the heart of the French Quarter, and arguably New Orleans. The marketplace was originally a Native American trading post, back in the late 1700s, which is why it has such a long history. Among the stalls the market also features the New Orleans Visitor Centre and several cafes and bars. All sorts of things can be bought in…
Thailand’s favourite floating market
Floating markets offer visitors to Asia a fascinating and unique experience. The market activity is colourful and friendly and offers many unusual sights. Who knows you might even end up cuddling a snake? Damnoen Saduak is the most popular floating market in Thailand. It is an hour’s drive from Bangkok and it is worth going early in the morning to catch the best of the market, which is open daily until noon, and avoid the worst of the heat. It is possible to walk along the banks of the river and witness all the action from dry land, but some of the sellers, and their produce, will be out of…
Market day in Bonnieux
Treasure hunting in Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar
Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar is virtually a city within a city; there is so much going on in there. Covering an enormous area, the bazaar’s 3,000 or so shops offer the intrepid explorer an opportunity to buy almost everything imaginable. Come on in. For those who thrive on bustle and activity the bazaar will be a highlight of your trip to Istanbul. It is certainly something to be in a good mood for and not pressed for time. The shopkeepers will banter with visitors and expect their customers to bargain for goods. This is all done in good spirits and often accompanied by offers of tea and coffee that should not…
Pop into Port Douglas
Famous for being the celebrity hangout of Far Northern Queensland, Port Douglas is an interesting little town an hour’s drive North of Cairns. The town fills up from July to September when Australians living in the Southern states flee their winter weather, preferring the balmy tropics. The drive to Port Douglas alone, makes a visit worthwhile, with spectacular beach views emerging every few minutes around bends in the road. Keep an eye on the road though. The resort part of Port Douglas is built along 4 mile beach and offers accommodation ranging from backpacker hostel to pricey luxury resort. The centre of town is just a little further along the…
Have a butchers at Londons markets
Whether you are looking for something specific or just keen to get in amongst the locals and soak up some of the atmosphere, London’s markets will not disappoint. There is always a market on somewhere in London and all sorts of treasures can be found. Keep your ears peeled for cockney rhyming slang too. The phrase ‘Have a butchers’ in my title means ‘have a look’ for example. London has many many markets.I have featured my favourites but there are lots more to explore. Camden Camden town has a thriving market scene. The largest market is by Camden Lock and it is possible to buy just about anything here. There…
