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Traditional Markets
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Most Goan towns have a
Municipal Market where you can get practically everything you need in
one place to stock up on your provisions. This is the traditional market
place for the average Goan for his daily shopping needs.
These markets are
usually the most interesting place to browse around for shopping.
However over the years, some markets have gained fame around the world
for their unique variety and ambience.
Friday Mapusa
Market
The
small town of Mapusa lies in northern Goa and is one of the main market
centres in the state, serving both inland farmers and the villagers of
the coast.
The market is at its
bustling best every Friday morning when it draws large crowds of Goans
as well tourists. Goans come from all over the state to do their weekly
shopping here.
Although it's not much
different from any other regional market, it's an excellent example of a
typical busy Goan bazar. The market opens early morning around 8 am and
the business is in full swing throughout the day until the closure at
around 6 pm in the evening.
There are vendors
selling everything from fresh fruit, vegetables to fish, earthen cooking
pots to the latest plastic utensils.
Banastarim
Bazar
Banastarim
is a small village which lies in Ponda Taluka further along the road
down the highway NH4A from the famous Old Goa Church complex. There is a
weekly bazar held here on Fridays, which is quite similar to the Mapusa
market.
The main difference
between the two markets is that due to its location, this is not yet as
popular with the tourists. As such the market still retains its old
world charm and Goan ambience without the commercialisation aimed at
tourists. Goods are thus available at extremely cheap prices.
Anjuna
Market
Originally
started by foreigners who wanted to sell off their second-hand items
such as cameras, watches and even clothes, the Anjuna market today has
quite a different appearance.
Held every Wednesday,
near the famous Anjuna beach, it is a major attraction for people from
Goa as well as the tourists.
Today it is more
populated by stalls operated by Tibetan and Kashmiri traders and
colourful Lamani tribal women rather than foreigners. The stalls usually
sell handicrafts from around India.
Bargaining is expected
by most vendors, so be sure to haggle around with the starting price
until you are sure you are getting your money's worth.

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