Few experiences leave a lasting impression on the British psyche like the first foray into a French supermarket. The memory of encountering an array of chilled meats, navigating aisles filled with unfamiliar cereals, and discovering a plethora of unique products like small fireworks and hundreds of drink syrups is one that lingers.
The trend of sharing overseas supermarket adventures has taken social media by storm, with over 50 million posts tagged under ‘grocery store travel’ on TikTok. Travelers showcase their intriguing finds and marvel at the diversity of everyday items in foreign lands.
In a recent report, travel giant Expedia has identified “supermarket tourism” or “Goods Getaways” as a significant trend projected to rise by 2025. The forecast suggests that more travelers, especially from Gen Z, will explore foreign supermarkets in search of viral products popular on social platforms.
Sherry Martin Peters, a seasoned flight attendant and founder of Atlas + Wild, has made a habit of exploring various supermarkets during her extensive travels around the globe.
According to Peters, “Tourists collect souvenirs from landmarks, but flight attendants explore grocery stores. We are familiar with the Lisbon supermarket offering sangria worthy of being packed in a shoe, the Korean store stocking collagen face masks, the French markets selling lavender honey for sleep, and the South African shelves holding rich rooibos tea for relaxation.”
From fresh Italian pasta to salted butter from France and Brazilian mate, Peters describes these purchases as more than novelties – they are edible reminders, a way of making a place one’s own rather than just passing through. She emphasizes that a flight attendant’s pantry resembles an international grocery store, providing a sense of familiarity.
Peters shares insights into her favorite foreign supermarkets and the items she purchases when abroad, noting that some of these products may be found in specialty stores in the U.S. but are more affordable overseas.
Do you have any go-to foreign supermarket staples or shopping tips for traveling abroad? Share your experiences with us at webtravel@reachplc.com
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