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Going on vacation can be exciting and fun, especially if it is to the Caribbean, the land of fun, sun, sand and sea. While down in the islands, almost everybody decides to try some local fruits or maybe just visit the local market. The local produce can be confusing, and you may often wonder if something is to be eaten fresh or cooked; this can be really important with something such as bananas and plantains, they look alike! Here are some tips on buying produce while on a Caribbean Vacation.
First, if something looks strange, ask about it. Citrus in the Caribbean doesn't change colors much as it ripens, but does when it rots. Those big green oranges from Dominica are sweeter than the oranges from Florida, they are just not orange. You see some strange roots, such as tanya, ask about it and how to cook it. You will get a wealth of information and some will even invite you home to try it. Asking will get you better service and better produce.
You can also ask in many places to see the stuff growing, especially in little roadside shops or stands. On Nevis, many visitors go to a place known as Mansas and his wife will sell you the produce (and take you in the kitchen to show you how to prepare it) while he shows you the trees and plants from which the fruit grows. These Caribbean people like to show what they grow and do, asking gets you more, and sometimes a lower price or better produce.
Ask about the price and quality. Many Caribbean people like to chat with visitors, and see what the market will bear. If you sit and talk, ask questions and argue price, you become friends and save money. They may also pull out that special avocado and say "buy this one, it's better"! If they don't want to lower the price and you think it is to high, walk away and it may drop quickly. West Indians, just like everybody else hate to lose a sale.
On those bananas and Plantains, again ask. They look the same from the outside but you need to always cook plantains. I have been in the Caribbean 24 years and still get them confused! The one tip for buying produce on a Caribbean vacation is to ask. The answers may surprise you!
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