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When you are to travel and you land in a new country, is your first thought when you go to the errand store?
Maybe not.
But grocery stores have become among the “it” travel destinations young travelersthanks to “supermarket tourism”.
The trend has taken off on TikTok in recent months, with fans of the act saying it’s a good way to get a feel for a new place.
“This may be controversial, but I think the best thing you can do while traveling is go to the supermarket,” TikTok user marissainchina said in a video during a visit to Malaysia.
“Going to a supermarket could technically be considered sightseeing, right? Because not only is it a cultural experience, but you can also find lots of stuff to take back with you as souvenirs.”
Of course, historic markets such as Tokyo’s Fish Market and Barcelona’s Boquerìa have always attracted tourists. But this trend is finding joy and excitement in the average grocery store.
Bringing local snacks with you from vacation is not new. We all remember the first time we got to try American lollipops as a child, thanks to a relative who went abroad.
And convenience stores like 7/11 in Thailand and Japan have long been a fascination for travelers stocking up on egg sandwiches, obscure flavors of Lays chips and their famous iced coffee.
Café Erewhon in Los Angeles has recently become a hotspot for travelers to the American city. The health food store is known for its celebrity clientele and its smoothie bar. Model Hailey Bieber collaborated with the store on a “Strawberry Glaze Skin Smoothie,” which went viral on TikTok even though it cost $US19 ($28).
Grocery tourism is also a thing here in Australia. But we’re not just talking about people stocking up on TimTams at Coles and Woolies.
Health food stores Flannery’s and Forestway Fresh have also been there get a grip on TikTok as creators compare them to Erewhon for their premium range of healthy food and wholesome cafes in stores.
And if you want to get your hands on a Hailey Bieber smoothie — without taking a trip to LA — luckily, Green Cup in Melbourne has created its own spin on the viral sensation.
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