Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
A Malagasy version of a Moroccan souk, this sprawling open-air market, with distinct
areas of jewellery, clothing, food, and more, will keep you occupied for hours either shop-
ping or simply absorbing the spectacle. Located in a vast walled compound, it is a Pan-
dora's box of unusual sights and sounds, not to mention things for sale, with all of local
society seemingly on display. The shaded stalls are most welcome on a hot day, and the
generallackofhardsalestacticsmakesvisitorswelcome.Justbecarefuloftheopendrains.
Saturday is the main day, but there is action all week long.
Star Brewery
BREWERY
(usine.antsirabe@star.mg; Rue Danton; tours 9am & 2pm Tue, Wed & Thu) Wondering
where all that Three Horses Beer comes from? Look no further. Madagascar's dominant
and unmissable brand is made in this, the country's biggest brewery. Starting at the THB
billboard on the corner of Ave Foch and Rue Danton, head west on Danton (toward Moron-
dava) for 800m. Email ahead to book the thrice-weekly free tour. If you've seen breweries
elsewhere, though, this will be familiar.
Antsenakely
MARKET
If Sabotsy isn't enough for you, you can also visit the smaller Antsenakely (also known as
Petit Marché), which is open every day.
Arotel
SWIMMING
(Rue Jean Ralaimongo) If the summer heat is getting to you, do what the local expats do:
head to this hotel for a swim in their attractive pool. Though they still exist, the historic
thermal baths
are too dirty for this purpose.
THE POUSSE-POUSSE TOUR: A SHOPPER'S DELIGHT
Like most places in Madagascar, Antsirabe has a shortage of street signs, so
navigation can be difficult. But have no fear: the
pousse-pousse
tour is here. For
a most reasonable fee, you can float around for hours without a care, making
seeing this town a breeze. There's even a hood if it rains.
This experience is particularly valuable if you are interested in local handi-
crafts - from elaborate woodwork to embroidery to miniatures. These are typic-
ally created by artisans who work out of small workshops or private houses, in
places you would never find on your own. Your
pousse-pousse
driver will be
