Portsmouth Market

Portsmouth Market is a few miles from here in Picard and is best attended on Saturday mornings. Saturday mornings are usually reserved for sleeping in, but when the mood strikes, I may get up early to go.

Keep in mind this doesn't happen near as often as it should, but when I do go, I am ever so glad I did.

The fresh produce is cheaper than what IGA has available, and there's more selection as the IGA's produce is hit or miss.

Chelsea, Ann and I made our way to the market, and were welcomed by the scent of fresh baked bread, which is a wonderful thing early on a Saturday morning. From there, the bright colors, lively patrons and praise and worship music that is blaring sets the perfect ambiance for a Dominican morning.

You  make your way from table to table, scoping out the produce and make your selection of the finest, pineapple, peppers, lettuce, eggs, flowers, sugarcane and more.

Speaking of pineapple, it is in season right now. We were offered this giant pineapple for just $13EC which is about $5 USD.

And it is one of the most delicious pineapple I've tasted! Even better when you dip it in Nutella. 

If you are there at the right time, you can hear the fishermen blow the conch shell, which means they are bringing in the day's catch. 

Step up, and choose your cut to take home.

Definitely not my first choice. I'll stick to the pineapple.

Coconut water is also a hot commodity. Truck loads of jelly coconuts (the local term for a young, ripe coconut) are ever present. The vendors slice up the jelly with a machete and pour the water into your container.

Or, you can sip it straight out the coconut like this adorable girl.

As I mentioned earlier, praise and worship music is blaring throughout the market. The locals will often sing and dance, and we captured the sweetest older gentleman bubbling with joy that was too great not to capture.

It was a little windy, so it's too bad you can't hear the joyful sounds accompanying him.

The market is just a great way to immerse yourself in the local Dominican culture. You leave feeling refreshed and stocked with some fresh goodies.

The short drive back lends for some great Dominican sights. For instance... the Dominican Bus Station..

Art Gallery..

And local signage..

It's my goal to drag myself out of bed go to the market for often! Take a look at our treasures for the day.