Wednesday, May 27, 2009

Tongan Markets (2)

Downtown Nuku'alofa has a covered market building where the women sell produce and crafts.Clothing is often traditional: black because there is always a time of mourning for a dead relative if you have a large extended family. On top of a black tofenu (sarong), a mat is worn (ta'ovala) which is held in place by a rope (kafa). the mats are woven with pandanu leaves. Younger people like surfing shorts, jeans, polo and t-shirts.
She sells taro root which grows huge on Tongatapu.

Inside the market hall, an entire corner is dedicated to craft sellers who are usually the producers as well. Tongan women do excellent work weaving pandanus leaves, producing and painting tapa.

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