Mauritius #5 – A treat for all senses

This will be my last post from Mauritius. But before I leave, I have to tell you about the Central Market in Port Louis, the capital. It's a facinating place to be, just to watch people. In my opininon it's a MUST see. It's noisy and colorful with a mixed odour of the products for sale. The smell of fresh, local produced fruits, vegetables, spices and herbs cannot be described in words. You have to be there! It's a place where to take time to see, smell and taste.

Port Louis is home to the largest market in Mauritius. As far as I know, it's also the oldest. Todays location of the market dates back to 1820 during the British rule. Before that it has been located different places in Port Louis since the first in 1772. When entering the main gate there is a wide sort of walk-way through the complex. On one side the vegetables and fruit are sold. On the other souvenirs. If you are looking for something authentic look closely. It might says «made in China» (or somewhere else) on it! You will need to haggle to get a bargain. The vendors can be very persistent!

The building itself is an amazing three storey high building. On the main floor it has a doble -height ceiling, which gives an airy and grand feeling. When standing on the second floor, looking down you can see the vendors in action. I love standing up there watching people who make their purchases. Up on the second floor you will find some sovenir sellers.

During week days the market is allways crowded. Many locals who work in Port Louis will come here for a snack or drink around lunchtime. The food stalls sell local food and juices. The market is one of the best places for cheap, but quality street food. You will find local dishes as roti (Indian flat bread) filled vith spicy vegetables or meat, sandwiches, freshly made juice from suggarcane or coconut etc.

The whole complex is not only this building. The whole area is filled with vendors in the street behind. When you go beyond that street, there are more buildings belonging to the market. That is the meat area. In the street you can find cloth and almost any household item. You can find just about anything at the local market. The market even has it's own local «herb doctor». He is well known among the locals and can recommend a cure for most illnesses..... In other words. A good place to get a feel of the local life.

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U.J

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All the photoes are mine, Ulla Jensen (flickr, Instagram and facebook)

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