Kevin C.
Google
Having explored most markets in Colombo, I must say, if you're expecting to spend an hour immersing yourself in vibrant stalls and unique finds like even the smallest market in Spain, you’ll be sorely disappointed. These markets barely took us 10 minutes to walk through—some even less than that.
At the "Good Market" near the racecourse, a glaring sign read: "Bankrupt financially and bankrupt morally." It wasn’t just the sign that left a bad impression; people had recommended these markets, so I had hoped for something more substantial, perhaps a lively atmosphere with street food and a variety of stalls. Instead, every stall seemed geared solely towards tourists, lacking authenticity.
What really soured the experience was the blatant overcharging. A curd vendor had labels clearly stating Rs. 700, yet when my wife—fluent in Sinhala—asked, the price magically became $20. This left both of us with a bitter taste, literally and figuratively.
Are these markets worth your time? In my opinion, absolutely not. And while my feedback may fall on deaf ears, to the organisers, I’d suggest rethinking the concept entirely. Turn it into a proper experience—a place worth visiting. If you lack the know-how, perhaps consult someone who understands how to run a vibrant market. Where’s the variety? Years ago, I knew someone who sold rabbits and chicks at the Good Market, but now there’s not a single animal in sight. The whole affair feels poorly run and lackluster.
On a positive note, Google Maps did its job, guiding us to the right buses. Although it took us slightly further than necessary, requiring a longer walk, it wasn’t a big issue compared to the market experience itself.
In summary: underwhelming, overpriced, and not worth the effort.
