A highlight of my travels over the years has always been going to outdoor markets. There’s something special about waking at sunrise to shop at the town square in Bruges, Belgium, on a crisp winter morning. I also have fond memories of strolling through the Portland, Oregon, farmers market on a warm summer day and eating spicy, green papaya salad in the Chiang Mai night market.
Going to local markets is one of the best ways to get to know the culture and flavors of a new city. It’s an opportunity to chat with vendors, browse specialty products, and try traditional and seasonal foods. I’ll never forget the fresh orange juice I had at a market in Malaga, Spain, or getting my palm read in the Kowloon night market in Hong Kong (quite an experience!).
Feeling inspired last weekend, I took the tram south of Manchester to Altrincham Market Quarter, located where the Cheshire County farm belt meets Manchester’s commercial zone.
Around the perimeter of the market, you’ll find shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants. If you go, look up The Con Club, a trendy spot with outdoor dining and a rooftop patio where you can munch on Nutella-blueberry pancakes or panko and beer-battered cod with hand-cut chips at their weekend brunch. Or pop into Blanchflower Bakery, famous for its giant loaves of three-day artisanal sourdough bread.
I sipped an açaí smoothie while walking around the Altrincham Market’s meat, cheese, and produce sections. You’ll also find a flower market on site and vendors selling ceramics, crafts, and vintage clothing. After I worked up an appetite, I had a smoked salmon egg sandwich in the Market House, an upscale food court adjoining the property. It was full of local joggers who had just finished a 10k race and were celebrating with craft beers and champagne flutes.
Wherever you travel next, make sure to see if there’s a market in your area where you can get a taste of the local lifestyle!
Editor’s Note: For 20 years, Kristin Wilson has lived, worked, and traveled abroad in 60 countries. She’s used her unique expertise and on-the-ground insights to help thousands settle into a new, better life overseas.
Now she’s joined our IL team to provide personalized guidance that will help you find your own just-right place on the planet and get there with ease and confidence.