Farmers Markets

In almost every town or neighborhood there is a weekly farmers market. Offered up are mounds of onions and peppers, whole hands of bananas and row upon row of lettuce. Quality is often better and prices lower than in the supermarkets. It’s also a lot more satisfying than choosing from among plastic-wrapped cucumbers at the local supermarket. You probably won’t find organic products as they are still a novelty but it’s been seen as of late in some of the markets.

The markets are social occasions, with housewives chatting with neighbors or with vendors they’ve come to know. Cheese, meats, and fresh juices are often available as are plants, from daisies to orchids. Arrive early in the morning for the best selection and bring your own bags or cart as they don’t have them there.