Where it all started: a trip to a market in the Hungarian countryside with our founder.
Tell us a little bit about yourself!
My name is Hajni (pronounced “hoi-knee’) and I am the founder of Where is the market?. I’m so happy you’re here! I’ve grown up in Hungary but have been living in the Netherlands for 10 years now! Markets have been an important part of my life growing up (more on that later) and whenever I go on holiday I am always drawn to visiting local public markets.
Which market are you going to tell us about? Where is it and what is your connection to it?
There are a number of markets around the world that are close to my heart, but there’s one that played an especially important role in my life growing up.
I’ve been raised in the small town of Mórahalom in the south of Hungary, which happens to host the third largest monthly market in the entire country selling all kinds of wares such as clothes, antiques, hardware, toys, homeware, kitchenware, baskets, second-hand items, candy and more. There is a saying that if you can’t find something at Mórahalom’s market, it doesn’t exist!
Market culture has always been a part of my life and my love for baskets and markets probably started on the dusty aisles of Mórahalom’s market.
Why do you think this market is special and worth a visit?
There’s always an element of surprise as to what you can find at the market thanks to the large variety of sellers. You may not find what you’re looking for but you never go home empty handed! It is also a relatively affordable market.
Your top 3 favorite things you can buy at the market
Baskets – Obviously! You can find so many different shapes and sizes!
Plants – This is a shameless plug for my grandma, who is also a regular seller at the market. She sells plants, flowers and trees that she grows on her land and she has a quite large and loyal customer base!
Kitchenware – Last summer I finally bought a huge pastry board and rolling pin for less than €30 for the whole set and the quality is amazing.
Why do you think it’s important for people to visit markets in general?
There are so many reasons why you should absolutely become a market goer! Markets are sustainable, affordable, give a sense of community and are such an authentic experience compared to going to the supermarket!
