The top 5 food markets around the world

29 December 2025

There’s nothing quite like exploring the world through your taste buds. From dawn-till-dusk markets where locals haggle over spices to late-night stalls pouring steaming bowls of noodles, food markets give travellers a delicious shortcut into the heart of a destination. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or planning that first big trip, these five global markets offer flavours and experiences that make the journey as exciting as the destination itself.

1. La Vucciria – Palermo, Italy

Kick off your culinary tour in Sicily’s spirited La Vucciria, a market that’s been feeding and entertaining locals for centuries. By day, its narrow alleyways are lined with stalls selling seafood straight from the Mediterranean, the sweetest of citrus fruits, and street snacks like arancini and panelle that are perfect for trying as you explore. When the sun sets, the same space transforms into an impromptu party zone with live percussion, aperitivos, and late-night eats that blur the lines between market and nightlife. If you like the idea of tasting your way through Sicily, street by street, your Travel Counsellor can build this into a wider Italian escape, from boutique stays in Palermo to food-focused experiences across the island.

2. Mercado de San Miguel – Madrid, Spain

Just steps from Plaza Mayor in Spain’s capital, Mercado de San Miguel is the place to sample a little bit of everything from one of Europe’s great food capitals. Covered in elegant glass and steel, it’s less about buying ingredients and more about tasting. Sip a glass of regional wine paired with Iberian ham, tuck into freshly shucked oysters, or savour a plate of tapas that perfectly showcases Spanish flavours. With over 40 vendors under one roof, this is a dreamy stop for anyone who loves to eat their way across a city.

3. Gwangjang Market – Seoul, South Korea

In Seoul’s Gwangjang Market, it’s all about eating well and going with the flow. Pull up a stool next to locals and try classic Korean snacks like bindaetteok, crispy mung bean pancakes, or mayak gimbap, the bite-sized seaweed rolls that are very hard to stop at just one. Between food stalls, you’ll spot piles of fresh ingredients, fabrics, and everyday market finds, giving you plenty to wander through. Give yourself a couple of hours to graze, explore, and maybe settle in with a cold drink at one of the tucked-away stands. And if you want to experience Seoul without rushing from place to place, your Travel Counsellor can put together a trip that balances the big sights with plenty of time to sample the best local delicacies.

4. Tsukiji Outer Market – Tokyo, Japan

Once the centre of Tokyo’s renowned fish auctions, Tsukiji’s outer market remains one of the city’s most rewarding places to eat. Compact stalls serve expertly prepared sushi just moments after it’s made, while nearby vendors grill scallops, eel, and skewers that draw a steady stream of locals and visitors alike. The pace is lively and purposeful, particularly in the early morning, when the market offers a glimpse into Tokyo at its most authentic. Your Travel Counsellor can incorporate Tsukiji into a wider Japan itinerary, balancing the energy of the capital with calmer moments elsewhere and ensuring you experience each place at the right time.

5. Waterfront Market – Dubai, UAE

For a more contemporary take on the global food market, Dubai’s Waterfront Market blends the day-to-day life of a working market with plenty to tempt the curious traveller. Over 800 traders sell fish, spices, dates, fruits, vegetables, and more, and you can even watch auctions of the day’s catch in action. When you’re ready to relax, waterfront cafés and restaurants offer a chance to savour your finds with views of the Arabian Gulf, a refreshing contrast to the hustle on the market floor.

To experience one of these incredible food markets, speak to your Travel Counsellor today.

Two Rixos resorts, two very different ways to switch off

29 December 2025

For guests who like their holidays easy but still want quality, variety, and a bit of personality, Rixos delivers a refreshing take on the all-inclusive concept. In the UAE, two standout properties show just how different that experience can be. Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island leans into polished beachfront living with a strong focus on food, wellbeing, and family-friendly design, while Rixos Al Mairid Ras Al Khaimah offers a more expansive, activity-led escape with space to spread out and a packed entertainment calendar. Choosing between them really comes down to how you like to holiday.

Luxury made easy: A closer look at Grecotel LUXME Costa Botanica

29 December 2025

All-inclusive doesn’t have to mean predictable, and Grecotel LUXME Costa Botanica is proof of that. Sitting on Corfu’s northern coast, this resort is designed for guests who want everything taken care of without losing personality or choice. Part of Grecotel’s LUXME collection, short for Luxury Made Easy, it blends high-end dining, thoughtful design, and family-friendly experiences into one seamless stay. The idea is simple: remove the hassle, keep the quality, and let your holiday unfold at your own pace.

A fresh look for paradise at Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun

24 December 2025

Finding that perfect stretch of sand where turquoise water meets pristine white beach can feel like discovering paradise on earth. We believe holidays should be filled with these moments of pure bliss, where every detail is taken care of so you can simply relax and reconnect. That is exactly what you will find at Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun, a secluded, adults-only haven nestled on one of the most celebrated beaches in Mexico’s Riviera Maya. This resort has long been a favourite for those seeking a truly luxurious escape, and we are thrilled to share that it has recently undergone significant renovations, making the experience even more special. The team at Secrets Maroma has been busy refreshing its spaces to enhance the signature Unlimited-Luxury® experience. It is this commitment to constant improvement that allows us to recommend it with such confidence, knowing your stay will be nothing short of exceptional.