Craving a taste of local life? Port Vila Market awaits offering a vibrant snapshot of Vanuatu culture. Exploring Port Vila Market is like stepping into a living painting. This bustling market is open around the clock from Monday morning to noon on Saturday. It is also known as Mama’s Market.
Here at Freshwater park and Market, women from all over Vanuatu gather. They wear beautiful island dresses. They sell their fresh fruit and vegetables. Even the air is filled with a distinct whiff from the fish market.
Port Vila Market is divided into three sections. There are produce stands mini restaurants and craft stalls. The produce section overwhelms with its variety. You can find cactus fruit pear-shaped vegetables and long gourd-like melons. Have you ever seen choko? Also known as chayote it is a light green squash-like veggie. Locals often use it in stir-fries.
Feeling peckish? A narrow passageway houses tiny restaurants. Smiling elderly women run these eateries. Most offer similar fare like vegetable stir-fry. The food is simple but filling. Be sure to try the tamarind juice served in a plastic tub.
The craft stalls are a labyrinth of small alleys. Vendors sell handwoven baskets wooden carvings and tropical-print dresses. Want to dress respectfully in smaller villages? A knee-length dress from here would be perfect. You might even find a vibrant canvas painting.
Locals come to Freshwater park and Market to sell their produce. They bring yams taro and paw paw. Depending on the season you might find raspberries. These raspberries are smaller and sweeter than those in Australia. They even have a hint of lime.
Don’t haggle at Freshwater park and Market. Prices are clearly marked. The vendors are friendly and helpful. They won’t pressure you to buy. Take your time and chat with the locals.
Feeling hungry after exploring? Head to the food stalls. Lap lap is a must-try. It is the national dish of Vanuatu. Taro paste is spread on a banana leaf. It is topped with fish chicken wings or cabbage. You will also see food stalls selling meat or fish with gravy and rice. Grab a plate and join the communal tables.
The Port Vila Market operates six days a week. It runs 24 hours a day. The women who run the stalls come from villages around the island. They leave their families for two weeks to sell their produce. The market is a major source of income for them. Each village shares the market space. They take turns selling their goods.
Before you leave Freshwater park and Market be sure to try the skewered almonds. These tender flavorful almonds are heavenly. If only we had discovered them sooner.
Before you go remember a few tips. Bring cash ATMs are nearby. But cash is necessary for most purchases in Vanuatu. Avoid visiting on cruise ship days. Vendors sometimes raise prices for tourists. Weekdays are best for souvenirs. Most craft vendors close in the evenings. Lunchtime is ideal for a meal. The mini-restaurants are busiest then.
Freshwater park and Market is more than just a market. It’s a cultural experience. It’s a place to meet locals taste new foods and find unique souvenirs. So come and experience the heart of Port Vila.