International

Snack Tourism: Why Supermarkets Are The New Landmarks For Travellers

From limited-edition KitKats in Japan to spicy squid snacks in Thailand, snack tourism lets travellers experience destinations bite by bite, making supermarkets a cultural playground

One way to sample a country's food is through the snacks in supermarkets Photo: LUWS PWU 5801/Wiki Commons
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Travel around culinary cultures has taken off in a big way, with people growing increasingly adventurous in seeking out new tastes. Within this broader movement, a subculture has emerged: travellers deliberately exploring local snacks. From quirky convenience store drinks to region-specific sweets, these edible discoveries offer a playful yet insightful way to connect with a destination. People are planning trips around discovering unique local snacks, such as Japan’s famous flavoured KitKats, rather than merely visiting landmarks. Far from being mere souvenirs, these snacks reveal local habits, flavours, and everyday life.

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