I have always been a sucker for Italian open air markets, it is wonderfully civilized to go out once a week to buy your fresh fruit and vegetables, local produce and on special occasions like Christmas pick up cute little gifts, antiques and fashion.
I am always on the look out for a special gift for my little boy, but I always end up buying him shoes, as Italian shoes are so stylish.
Then I always see some beauties for me … those heels are deadly but they are really a work of art aren’t they?
I’m always surprised by what I find, this gramophone was impressive, I asked to photograph it but I should have asked how much he wanted for it.
There is something chaotic and unexpected about markets, it’s not about rummaging through bargain basement bins, rather discovering different textures, sights and enjoying the sensual experience.
It is part Moroccan bazaar and an extended expression of creativity and Italian style with many stores choosing to sell their latest creations at the markets
Sicilian markets are a feast for the senses, frying panini bread rolls, barbecues, roasting chestnuts, kebabs, impressive spruiking, handmade fashion, things that have fallen off the back of a truck, scarves galore and literally hundreds of stalls to explore.
The Sicilian Mercatini di Natale are a cornucopia of colours, tastes and experiences. The island of the sun gives us wonderfully sunny days of shopping to enjoy it all.
Hazelnut and almond sugar-coated slabs of Torrone are consumed at every festa during the year but, they taste better at Christmas.
The Christmas market above all reminds you Christmas is around the corner …
