Costa Rican Farmers' Markets

Fresh fruits, crisp vegetables, vibrant culture – these are just a few of the things travelers in Costa Rica car rentals will find at a local Farmers' Market! The farmers' market, known in Costa Rica as the "feria" is a celebration Costa Rican past time. Held every week, this unique event acts as a meet space for friends, families, shoppers and shop keepers. Whether you're shopping for your weekly groceries, or simply interested in an afternoon of people watching, the farmers' markets of Costa Rica provide plenty of fresh and fun opportunities.

What to expect at the market

Travelers in Costa Rica car rentals should anticipate a morning of colorful cheer and friendly greetings when they attend a Costa Rican farmers' market. This weekly event is characterized by jovial crowds, playful banter, and proud farmers. Only the freshest seasonal produce is displayed at the weekly market, so it isn't uncommon for stall vendors to playful mock the quality of one another's display. Neighbors stop to chat constantly as they make their way past the stalls, and shoppers are always open to making new friends. Travelers in Costa Rican car rentals are more than welcome to join in the fun – amiable vendors may even offer nibbles of unfamiliar goods to cautious customers.

What you'll find

Travelers in Costa Rica car rentals are often overwhelmed by the sheer number of vendors that show up for the weekly feria festival. If it's in season, it's for sale at the local market, so remember to leave plenty of room in your car rental for purchases! Familiar choices include potatoes, cucumbers, carrots, watermelon, bananas, and mangos. Exotic fruits like rambutan, breadfruit, figs, dragon fruit, and sour star fruit are also readily available. Fruits and veggies aren't the only items available. Travelers in Costa Rica car rentals can also purchase poultry, meat, fish and cheese, along with sour cream, eggs, medicinal herbs, teas, and flowers. Larger markets, like the one held in Alajuela, also feature artisan works, like pottery and jewelry.

Sample some local flavors

Shopping at a Costa Rican farmers' market can really work up a person's appetite. Luckily, many of the vendors offer up prepared food and drink to help satisfy grumbling tummies. Favorites like coconut water, empanadas, and warm corn pancakes known as chorreadas are almost always available. Of course, you could always just purchase a mango and chow down as you walk past the stalls, but to each his own!

Deciphering the prices

Travelers in Costa Rica car rentals should have no problem figuring out the prices for farmers' market merchandise. At most markets, the prices are clearly marked in front of each item. If you can't see one, you can ask the vendor by saying "Cuanto cuesta esto?" (How much is this?). Don't forget to do some comparison shopping before making your final choice – prices fluctuate throughout the market. Produce is usually sold by weight. Once you've filled your bag or basket with the desired amount, the stall keeper will weigh it, rounding either up or down to the nearest half pound.. Haggling isn't encouraged, but does take place at some markets. In general, farmers set very fair prices. If you're planning an extended vacation to the area, Avanti Costa Rica Car Rentals recommends shopping from the same vendor every week – regular customers are often awarded with the best produce (just one of the perks of being a loyal friend).

Sample prices from the Alajuela market

If you're used to paying $5 for a pineapple or $3 for a mango at an American grocer, get ready for a pleasant price drop during your upcoming Costa Rica car rentals vacation. Pineapples are just $0.50 and mangoes are often offered for around $0.80 a pound. Other sample prices include avocados at $0.44 each, celery at $0.35 a pound, and eggplants at $0.35 each.