On Monday mornings, a quiet neighborhood in Almería suddenly turns into a vibrant jumble of voices, colors and smells: welcome to the Mercadillo de la Bola Azul. This rastro - as the Spanish call their flea markets - has some 200 stalls and is a paradise for sleuths. Among second-hand clothes, brightly colored flowers, kitchen utensils and toys are sometimes hidden real gems. The market bustles with life: locals doing their weekly shopping, tourists haggling over leather belts or hand-woven baskets, and stallholders touting their wares with broad smiles.
The market opens as early as 8:30 a.m., so those who want to find the best, come early. Put on something easy, bring some cash and be surprised. It's an approachable and fun experience that fits perfectly into a relaxed Monday morning. Even if you don't buy anything, it's fun to walk around and soak up the atmosphere. There are food stalls nearby, so a cup of coffee or something tasty along the way is quickly arranged. Expect to stroll around for at least an hour - and who knows, you may go home with more than you expected.
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