Municipal Market, Papeete (must see)

In the heart of Papeete is located the city's Municipal Market. The commercial center has occupied the same location since 1869 and is a must-see for every visitor. The name of the Market, "Mapuru a Paraita" is emblazoned at the entrance of the large, renovated hall. The hall covers more than 7,000 square meters of floor space on two levels. It stands just a coconut throw from the seafront.

This large and crowded market hall offers local farm products, fish and meat, handicrafts, and souvenirs. On the ground floor, colorful stalls offer breadfruit, yams, taro, guavas, mangoes, soursops, and sweetsops. Follow the mishmash of aromas to the realm of fresh fish. The sea product department offers up tuna, bonito, mahi-mahi, parrot fish, mullet, and many other kinds of seafood.

Beyond the kingdom of the sea portion of the Market is Meatworld, a land of suckling pigs ruled over by Tahiti's irreplaceable meat producers. Beyond the land of meat are grandmothers creating garlands and leis from the flowers of Tahiti: tiara, tipanier, jasmine, and taina. There is a section for arts and crafts at the Market.

The artistry and craftsmanship of Polynesia surround the visitors. There are woven hats, necklaces, and carved sculptures from the Austral Islands and the Marquesas. There are also baskets of patchwork quilts inspired by Matisse and Gauguin art. Travelers will also find retailers selling Tahitian pearls. Pearl culture is monitored in French Polynesia, so buyers can purchase with confidence.

On the upper floor, the visitors will find the Manava Cafe with a wide selection of meals, coffees, smoothies, juices, and soft drinks. Both English and French languages are spoken at the Market. It may be useful to know basic numbers in French. For example, "cents" is "hundreds" and "milles" is "thousands."