A Comparison of Markets

Yesterday was another fieldtrip out of Managua, nothing official of course, just a visit to a market of arts and crafts in Masaya. While exploring the market, I couldn´t help but draw a few parallels between it and the experiences of a market in Kenya. First of all, and most blaringly obvious, were the names of the markets. Masaya Municipilidad (the market in Masaya) is oddly close to the Masai Market we experienced in Nairobi. Another similarity was the most common types of gifts. Small bracelets and leather pieces were by far the most common souveniers at every booth, in both Masaya and Masai.

There were a few differences though. While Masai (in Kenya) was an open air market with very few vendors even having tables, Masaya (Nicaragua) was (while not in a building per se) was covered with a roof and each vendor had their own store/table. Another difference was the method of salesmanship. In Masaya (Nicaragua), most vendors are sitting by their tables, always saying "any questions?" as you pass by or show a glimmer of interest. In Masai (Kenya), however, before we even entered the square of the market, we were swarmed with people trying to pawn off their goods. In some cases people would even try to grab our arms or shoulders to direct our attention were they thought it belonged.

Both experiences were a little overwhelming at times, but fun nonetheless. Given the chance, I would definitely return to either one. At the Masaya Market (Nicaragua) I picked up a hammock for only $8 (after a little negotiation of course). I´ll be putting it to good use over the next week when I return to my village, so we´ll see how the quality is!