Market forces

People love a good scratch around flea markets. It must be something that goes back to our days of hunter/gatherers. Which is just as well, seeing as the traditional market is how a vast majority of Africa's population still shops.

For those more accustomed to more 'user friendly' markets, Cape Town has some excellent choices:

• Greenmarket Square is probably the easiest, central (to the city) one. Good for the obligatory long neck wooden giraffe, batik, bead encrusted doyle glass covers and other such 'traditional african' memorabilia.
• Church Street Antique Market is also in the city centre. Nice for a rummage through yesteryear and if you look carefully, might find some worthwhile stuff.
• Milnerton Flea Market is more of a car-boot affair, so expect the appropriate goods. If you hanker after kitch, this is more than likely where you'll find it.
  

Johannesburg also has it's fair share:

• Rosebank rooftop market is huge and a real morning to afternoon affair where your every need will be catered for. Lots and lots to browse through. Sundays and public holidays only.
• Rosebank Curio Market is open every day for all your african memorabilia needs.
• Michael Mount Organic Market (Bryanston, at the Michael Mount Waldorf School) is good browsing for conscientious adults. There is lots of tasty home produce as well as boutique arts and crafts.