Ciao! You're obviously interested in markets, or you wouldn't be reading our lovely little blog, but maybe you're a little nervous to visit one on your own. Maybe the language barrier is freaking you out, or maybe you just don't feel ready to tackle the hustle and bustle that makes a market so much different than your standard grocery store. Whatever the reason, we're here to help! Here are five helpful tips to tackling your first trip to the market:
1. Allot a good amount of time for your visit.
Markets, especially if you've never visited, can be a little disorganized and hectic. There isn't a map to look at or set signs to follow, you kind of just have to wander until you stumble upon what you're looking for. Some markets will have like products grouped together (like in Mercato Trionfale, which is discussed in another post--check it out!), but some will not. Be prepared to wander a bit to find what you're looking for, which will require some time. I wouldn't go to the market to shop if you only have a couple of minutes to be in and out of there. Not only is it much more manageable with a lot of time, it's a much more enjoyable experience, too. A lot of times, you can stumble upon something awesome that you weren't even looking for just by wandering around!
2. Don't be intimidated by the language barrier, but maybe pick up a few phrases before your visit.
A lot of people in Italy speak English, but a lot of people do not. When you go to the market, it's very possible that the people you are trying to buy from will speak English and you will be able to have a quick and easy conversation about your purchase. It's also possible that they will not speak English. If this is the case, don't panic! Pointing at what you want and knowing a few key phrases about your item (for example, the name of the product you what and the number of how many you want) in Italian will go a long way. Say it all with a smile, and the sellers will be more than happy to work with you. Don't be intimidated by the language barrier!
3. Bring cash.
Many sellers will prefer cash over card or only have the option for cash, so don't plan on just swiping your card for all of your purchases. Also ensure that you have small bills, as many vendors may be unable to break large bills like a 50 euro note or a 100 euro note.
4. Look at your options.
The cool thing about a market is how many different options you have for the same products. While a grocery store may only carry one or two brands of strawberries, you can go to a big market and find dozens of vendors selling strawberries. Take your time looking at all of your options and finding the best ones for you. Don't be afraid to look at your produce and check for bruises, or ask questions about when your fish were caught and where. If you don't like their answers, don't be afraid to go to another vendor! With so many options in front of you, you can get exactly what you're looking for if you're willing to put in a little bit of work.
5. Enjoy yourself.
Markets are a treat and a really cool way to get to know each part of Rome. Take your time. Soak it all in. Enjoy yourself. Visiting the market is a great way to immerse yourself in Italian culture. Don't rush through it!
We hope these tips will soothe your worries about your first visit to the market. Comment any other questions you may have and we'd be happy to answer!
--Skylar Johnson
1. Allot a good amount of time for your visit.
Markets, especially if you've never visited, can be a little disorganized and hectic. There isn't a map to look at or set signs to follow, you kind of just have to wander until you stumble upon what you're looking for. Some markets will have like products grouped together (like in Mercato Trionfale, which is discussed in another post--check it out!), but some will not. Be prepared to wander a bit to find what you're looking for, which will require some time. I wouldn't go to the market to shop if you only have a couple of minutes to be in and out of there. Not only is it much more manageable with a lot of time, it's a much more enjoyable experience, too. A lot of times, you can stumble upon something awesome that you weren't even looking for just by wandering around!
2. Don't be intimidated by the language barrier, but maybe pick up a few phrases before your visit.
A lot of people in Italy speak English, but a lot of people do not. When you go to the market, it's very possible that the people you are trying to buy from will speak English and you will be able to have a quick and easy conversation about your purchase. It's also possible that they will not speak English. If this is the case, don't panic! Pointing at what you want and knowing a few key phrases about your item (for example, the name of the product you what and the number of how many you want) in Italian will go a long way. Say it all with a smile, and the sellers will be more than happy to work with you. Don't be intimidated by the language barrier!
3. Bring cash.
Many sellers will prefer cash over card or only have the option for cash, so don't plan on just swiping your card for all of your purchases. Also ensure that you have small bills, as many vendors may be unable to break large bills like a 50 euro note or a 100 euro note.
4. Look at your options.
The cool thing about a market is how many different options you have for the same products. While a grocery store may only carry one or two brands of strawberries, you can go to a big market and find dozens of vendors selling strawberries. Take your time looking at all of your options and finding the best ones for you. Don't be afraid to look at your produce and check for bruises, or ask questions about when your fish were caught and where. If you don't like their answers, don't be afraid to go to another vendor! With so many options in front of you, you can get exactly what you're looking for if you're willing to put in a little bit of work.
5. Enjoy yourself.
Markets are a treat and a really cool way to get to know each part of Rome. Take your time. Soak it all in. Enjoy yourself. Visiting the market is a great way to immerse yourself in Italian culture. Don't rush through it!
We hope these tips will soothe your worries about your first visit to the market. Comment any other questions you may have and we'd be happy to answer!
--Skylar Johnson
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