Two Minutes Du Jour

Grocery store tourism is a trending phenomenon on TikTok and is also making headlines in traditional media. At its core, grocery store tourism is discovering new things about a destination by observing an ordinary cultural activity: grocery shopping.

I love visiting grocery stores when I travel. Whether it’s the Bear Tooth Market in Red Lodge, Montana, Supermercados Rey or Riba Smith in Panama, or Supermarché U in the south of France, these shopping experiences are a way to participate in the local culture. I always enjoy Publix in Florida, and our hosts enthusiastically introduced us to Buc-ees and Wawa a few months ago!

These stores are not just about groceries but are a great source of gifts and souvenirs. I found lovely leaf bowls made from sugar cane in France at Supermarché U – sustainable, beautiful, and unique. These bowls make perfect hostess gifts or stocking stuffers. While in France, we even used them for a tasty appetizer during my sister’s birthday celebration.

Grocery shopping at home, however, is often seen as one of those necessary yet mundane errands. But what if we approached it with a joyful mindset? What if, instead of thinking, “I gotta do this,” we thought, “I get to explore”?

Imagine bringing this same sense of discovery to your everyday grocery shopping – almost a staycation version of grocery store tourism! Here are a few tips to turn your next grocery trip into an adventure:

Choose a New Store: Visit a different grocery store. Each store has its unique selection and atmosphere.

Mindful Exploration: Walk the aisles to see what’s there rather than dashing in and only purchasing the familiar. Notice the variety of products, the colors, and the arrangement of items. Let yourself be curious.

Engage with Employees: If the workers seem grumpy or non-conversational, say hello and ask them about their work or interests. You might learn something new or make someone’s day a little brighter.

Try Something New: Pick up an item you’ve never tried. It could be a new type of cheese, a seasonal fruit, a local vegetable, or a unique snack. You might discover a new favorite.

Finding joy in the tasks we do every day can transform our routines. Embrace the concept of grocery store tourism, even if it’s just in your neighborhood. Turn your next grocery trip into a mini adventure and rediscover the simple pleasures of exploration and discovery.

Links Du Jour:

Mindful Food Gathering – Infusing Joy Into Grocery Shopping – The MAPS Institute – Your Life in Balance

Grocery Store Tourism is Trending on TikTok – Here’s What it Means – Food & Wine

Grocery Store Tourism – Why a Country’s Secrets Can Be Found in the Snack Aisle – The Guardian

20 Little Tips that Will Make Running Errands So Much Better – Reader’s Digest