The flea market, which opened at 10 a.m. and closed at 6 p.m., will be a regular activity every Saturday, according the Biz Aid Saipan Enterprises Inc. administrative assistant Divine Sotto.
“We came up with the idea to establish a flea market to provide a particular place for buyers and sellers to meet,” Sotto said.
She added that 21 individuals or establishments rented spaces on Saturday but more people have placed reservations for the next week’s market.
She said anybody who wishes to put up a stall can rent space for $15 but discounts are available if they pay for a one-month contract, or longer.
Adding to the festive spirit of the market were performances by local, young dancers of Project Impact and Final Extreme.
“Every Saturday different groups will be performing to provide entertainment to the audience,” Sotto said.
The first flea market drew hundreds of customers who looked at the displays of electronic items, clothing, kitchenware, novelty items, jewelry and other knick-knacks.
For Alex Doctor, one of those who rented a stall, the flea market provides an easy outlet to sell their second hand clothes and other items conveniently.
“Garage or yard sales on Saipan are popular and it’s not new for the people to scour the island to look for these garage sales. At the flea market all they need to do is come and everything’s already here,” Doctor said.
Azumi Ishida, who also rented a stall, said sales were brisk.
“The stalls were supposed to open at 10 a.m. but people were already starting to buy before 10,” Ishida said.
Sotto said they are expecting more participation from the community in the next flea markets.
As an added bonus, customers can get a free shuttle ride on the “chicken bus” from Garapan to the Marianas Business Plaza. The shuttle bus leaves the Fiesta Resort at 10 a.m.., Kimpachi Restautant at 10:05, Hafa Dai Beach Hotel at 10:10, World Resort at 10:15 and Saipan Grand Hotel at 10:20.
From those who are north-bound, the shuttle bus leaves the Pacific Islands Club at 10 a.m., Coral Ocean Point at 10:05 a.m. and Carmen Safeway at 10:25 a.m. and every hour.
Sotto said interested individuals who wish to put up displays at the flea market can contact her at 234-7626 or 234-8088 for inquiries or reservations.
