The 1 Place You Should Go Every Time You Visit A New City

You can tell at a glance what the local culture values, how people snack and what they drink.

Many travelers eagerly research the best restaurants or food tours before heading somewhere new, but you don’t necessarily need to make a reservation or spend a lot of money to experience a truly local food scene.

When I first started traveling, I was on a strict budget and didn’t have money for gourmet restaurants. I sustained myself largely by shopping in ordinary supermarkets. They were always cheap, and I knew I would easily find an array of local foods in one place.

Going to supermarkets started as a money-saving measure, but I now realize how much those shopping excursions enriched my travels.

My budget these days is a little more generous, but I still find myself seeking out local supermarkets wherever I travel. It’s the one place I know I will brush shoulders with locals, even in towns overrun with tourists. Often, I will ask my fellow shoppers or check-out clerks for advice about what to buy or where to go in their town.

Supermarkets are also a great place to get a good look at local culture. I can usually tell at a glance if the local culture values fresh fruits and vegetables over highly processed foods, how people snack and what they drink. Now that I frequently travel with my kids, we always discover new candies and treats at supermarkets. (And we usually bring some home.)