Travelogue: Exploring Rio's Vibrant Food Markets

I enjoy culinary adventures of all kinds so I never pass up an opportunity to explore food markets when I travel.  It's a great place to try and procure authentic local foods at great prices.  Another bonus is that the markets are generally filled with locals hustling about.  

No trip to Rio De Janeiro is complete without visiting the beaches, Christ The Redeemer, and Escadaria Selarón.  But I'd highly suggest adding a food market or two to your to-do list.  My favorite is Fiera da Gloria on Sundays.  Traffic is redirected and vendors selling exotic fruits, vegetables, seafood, cheeses, spices, souvenirs, and flowers set up stalls along both sides of the street. 

I was instantly drawn to the vibrant colors.   And while markets are crowded, the vendors and patrons are extremely friendly.   In fact, many of the fruit vendors will offer you delicious samples of fresh tropical fruits.  Come hungry because this is also the best place to get freshly prepared pastels and cane juice.