It is always fun to shop at local markets, especially here. Souvenirs and gifts are available at rock bottom prices and sellers are generally welcoming. Algeria has a rich handicrafts industry from rugs and carpets to leatherwork, brass, copper, and even jewelry and dresses.
Products made by Algeria’s desert residents are some of the finest and most beautifully primitive pottery and basket weaving.
There’re plenty of state-run craft markets throughout Algeria, but it is far more intriguing to go street shopping in large cities. One of the best places is Algiers’ Didouche Mourad Street, where skilled street artists show their crafts. In Tamanrasset, there is a daily market known as Marche Africaine which is liveliest during the the morning. You’ll find a wide range of local produce
including fruits and spices, grains, and a fair share of velour carpets, metal cooking pots, and traditional clothing.
The country is not as well known as neighbouring Morocco for its shopping credentials but shoppers should find enough to satisfy the urge within the markets and souks of the northern cities.
The spread of globalization has made its mark in the capital Algiers, with shopping centres drawing visitors and locals seeking a Western shopping times.
Do not expect to find the big international brands, but there are plenty of Algerian shops selling everything from jewellery and clothing, to cosmetics and souvenirs. Possible souvenirs include leatherware, rugs, copper and brassware.
Embroidered dresses made locally, known as mejboudi an also make awesome gifts, although depending where youa re buying, they can be expensive. The country is known for its leather in particular, so shoppers can expect to find excellent bags and shoes for excellent prices.
Berber carpets are beautifully decorated, but rather than buying them in Algiers, go to Ghardaia where the quality will be better and the prices themselves. Berber jewellery is also highly desirable but many pieces will be made from coral, which while unquestionably beautiful, is ethically dubious in its origins. From the Sahara comes finely dyed basketwork and primitive-style pottery.
When shopping in the local markets, feel free to bargain. If you want to get an idea of how much you should be paying, visit the state-run craft markets, which have steady rates. Shops in Algeria are mostly open from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m in the morning and from 2:00 p.m to 7:00 p.m in the afternoon on weekdays. Most
are closed at least once a week, usually on Fridays, but you will still find something open every day of the week.
RocApply Tips:
- As with other facets of life in Algeria, food, and grocery are also sold in their local currency, so ensure to make all the necessary conversions and move around with a little local cash on you. Many of the establishments only accept the US dollar.
- The market is a very popular and crowded place to, so it is important to watch your wallet.
- As a newcomer, some of the names of the items might confuse you, please use any online translator services to check the correct word for whatever you are searching for.
- Always ask for help or directions from fellow students and if you can't find any around you then ask even the locals they are always happy to assist foreigners and visitors.
"I enjoy shopping and I found it affordable but some of the clothes are definitely not of the highest quality." - Hassan from Turkey
