Best Street Markets in the World
Wherever you go in the world for your honeymoon – whether you are spending it lazing on the beaches of Thailand, the Seychelles or Mauritius; savouring a dynamic city honeymoon somewhere like Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur; or experiencing the unique wonders of the Middle East – you are sure to want to indulge in some retail therapy during your stay so you can pick up some amazing items for your marital home, or perhaps some gifts for friends and family. Street markets are undoubtedly the best places to go, as they sell all kinds of exotic local goods and food items, so Honeymoon Dreams has compiled a selection of the very finest street markets in the world to make your shopping that much easier!
1. Chatuchak Weekend Market, Bangkok
Chatuchak is one of Bangkok’s most famous attractions; a vast 35-acre labyrinth of stalls selling what seems like every kind of product under the sun. The biggest market in the country, Chatuchak attracts thousands of people each weekend and, while it can be a daunting prospect to the uninitiated, it is the perfect place to go if you want to buy some amazing souvenirs or just stock up on reasonably priced clothing. The market also boasts a large number of food stalls so you can indulge in delectable Thai goodies to help refuel during your ‘treasure hunt’.
2. Chandni Chowk, Delhi
Chandni Chowk, meaning ‘moonlight market’ or ‘moonlight square’, is a historic Delhi market which has been attracting shoppers for hundreds of years, ever since it was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 1600’s. Running from the Lahori Gate of the Red Fort through to Fatehpuri Masjid and surrounded by historic buildings, this vibrant shopping district provides visitors with a thoroughly atmospheric retail experience. What’s more you are sure to be spoilt for choice, as the market’s vendors sell a staggering array of items ranging from exotic produce and stationery to home furnishings, fair trade fabrics and even made-to-order wedding dresses.
3. Marrakech
Marrakech is undoubtedly one of the best cities in the world in which to shop for exotic gifts and souvenirs. There are so many stalls and markets to explore, dedicated to selling a stunning assortment of products and food; you will feel like the proverbial kid in a candy store, poring over flowing traditional robes, piles of gold, silver and spices, and heaps of tempting pastries laced with honey and rosewater. Step into another world and explore Jemaa el Fna square and its surrounding souks, an evocative maze of stalls selling all manner of exotic items; if you are on a souvenir hunt or just looking for the perfect Moroccan wedding gift you are sure to find something amazing here.
4. Dongtai Road Antique Market, Shanghai
If you are spending your honeymoon in the dynamic Chinese super-city of Shanghai, be sure to check out the Dongtai Road Antique Market. Situated along Dongtai and Liuhekou Roads, this market offers a plethora of knick-knacks and souvenirs for you to pore over, ranging from dainty lotus shoes to exquisite imperial robes, terracotta warrior statues and figurines of the goddess Guanyin. Bear in mind that many of the items will not be genuine, though they are still ideal as souvenirs and reminders of your trip to the Far East.
5. St Lawrence Market, Toronto
One of the world’s finest street markets – the best food market in fact, so rated by none other than National Geographic – is the St Lawrence Market in Toronto. One of the two major markets in the city this historic place is divided into 3 sections, selling different goods. The South Market is devoted to specialty vendors who bring in the freshest vegetables, fruit, meat, grains, dairy products and baked goods, as well as high-quality non-food items. Here is also where you will find the Market Gallery exhibition space. The North Market is where you will find the traditional – and highly atmospheric – Saturday Farmer’s Market as well as the antiques market on Sundays. Finally the St Lawrence Hall is home to retail businesses on the ground floor.