Montezuma Beach Market
The communities of Santa Teresa, Cóbano and Montezuma have always been very dependent on themselves. Their remoteness from the centers of power and the most populated cities are two of the reasons why the local population produced what they consumed.
The arrival of the ferry to the community of Paquera facilitated the entry of products, services and people to the Nicoya Peninsula. However, the independent spirit of the inhabitants remained in force.
An example of this is the market held every Saturday in Montezuma and Playa El Carmen. Let’s talk a little about it.
Where and when the market is held
Every Saturday morning it is held in the town of Montezuma, on a beach between the sports plaza and the entrance to the waterfall.
In Playa el Carmen, near Santa Teresa, it is held on the same day during the afternoon.
What products are found in this beach market
As mentioned before, many of the products on display are local. We have cookies, jellies, honey, fruits and vegetables harvested in the area.
The cookies and other products are made with artisanal techniques that give them a unique flavor, as opposed to factory-processed products.
Meanwhile, the fruits and vegetables are organically harvested, without the chemicals generally used in industrial crops.
They are free of toxins, trans fats and artificial ingredients. For health and natural lovers, this is an excellent opportunity.
On the other hand, there are also sales of Costa Ricans known as “cachivaches”. In short, they are “garage sales” where some people sell things they no longer need, but are in good condition.
It can be anything from clothing to accessories for water sports like surfing. Visitors are allowed to peruse the merchandise and negotiate a price with the seller.
Conclusion
This market is not only an area to make transactions, as a supermarket would be, for example. It is also a place of cultural, social and idiosyncratic exchange. It is an experience to get to know the people of the Nicoya Peninsula in more depth.
There is presence of people born here as well as foreigners who found their home in this town.
There is a high possibility that you will not only acquire a product, you may find a friend.
I invite you to visit the market if you are in Montezuma or Santa Teresa and maybe you will see me there. If you see me, say hello!
We share more photos of the market below.
Remember, if you want to learn how to surf, contact me. We can arrange a surf lesson.
Disclaimer: This article is written by a real person. My intention is always to give real information based on my own experience.
