To market, to market, to buy... everything

Living here in London certainly has its pros and cons. Trying to find good, locally produced food and products can definitely be a bit of a hunt, but we're lucky to have the Covent Garden Market.

The Covent Garden Market has been a staple feature of downtown London since the 19th century. Though its structure has changed a few times throughout the decades, its general purpose remains the same: it's a one-stop shop for Londoners.

There are dozens of vendors at the market, selling everything from fruit to flowers to meat to handcrafted clothing, alongside a variety of restaurants and coffee shops. One of the greatest things about the market is the number of vendors who sell organic and local products.

The Barkery is a store that sells all natural, freshly baked dog treats, made with the best ingredients. They also sell natural pet food, supplies, toys, clothing and more. If it's so important for us to eat as healthy as possible, shouldn't we consider doing the same for our pets?

If you're a cheese-lover, you have to stop by Smith Cheese Inc., where they offer over 220 types of cheese, of which many are locally produced. Need I say more?

Hasbeans is one of my favourite places to visit at the market. They have a wall of over 39 varieties of coffee beans, with many organic and fair-trade options. Hasbeans roasts all their beans on site. If you're not looking to buy beans for home, you can always grab a cup of coffee or a latte to enjoy while you explore the market.

If you're on the hunt for organic food, the place you're looking for is Field Gate Organics, where they sell meat, dairy, fresh baked goods and lots of locally grown produce. They have 39 organic produce suppliers, and another 20 suppliers of organic meat.

Homeopathy London is your go-to store for homeopathic, herbal, nutritional and fitness products, health food, vitamins, pet food, supplements and more.

Though there are many vendors in the market who sell delicious sweet treats, the Ice Creamery makes all natural ice cream, chocolates, smoothies and candies. Now you don't have to feel so guilty about indulging your sweet tooth.

From May to November, there is also an outdoor market on Thursdays and Saturdays where tons of local people come together to sell their products. Just a short bus ride away from Fanshawe, the Covent Garden Market is a convenient and often greener alternative to malls and grocery stores.