The Central Market and Shopping Underground

Before I address the markets in Chisinau, I want to talk about the underpasses. Crossing the street has probably been the most terrifying part of my experience in Moldova so far. Yesterday when I was walking I started to imagine crossing the street and being run over by a speeding micro bus and having to worry about getting to a hospital and losing my legs and how much more difficult life would be if I didn't have my legs. So, I'm very cautious. I love the underpasses because I can cross the street without fear. In addition, while I make the short journey underground I can get visa pictures taken, buy a cell phone, have a bite to eat in a cafe, buy laundry detergent and a pet bird, get my hair cut, purchase a flat screen TV, and much more. I could probably do 90% of my shopping at this underpass next to my building if I really wanted to.

However, it is also an experience to go to the Central Market. The market is huge, it's only a 10 minute walk from my apartment, and it's open every day except Monday year round. Here, you can also find all the basic necessities of life, but more than anything it is the best place to buy fresh fruits and vegetables. If you read the book "The Geography of Bliss," then you know that although Moldova is the unhappiest place on earth according to some studies, you can find very fresh fruits and vegetables here. Although the Central Market is pretty wonderful, I can't really say I'm a big fan. I don't like the big crowds and being pushed around by babushkas. I think it would definitely be a better experience to go there knowing exactly what you want and where to find it, but right now I just wander around feeling totally overwhelmed. Also, it's a great place to go to buy in bulk, but since I'm the only one consuming this food I can't get too many fruits and vegetables or they will spoil. I saw one couple buy at least 40 bananas at one stand; I imagine that was a really good deal. They were probably going to resell them. Or they just really love bananas.

Well, here are a few pictures from the Piata Centrala. There is also an art market on the main boulevard where you can buy paintings, matroshka dolls, jewelry, and all kinds of things like that.