One example of cultural confrontation I faced was learning how to shop in Italian grocery stores. In a more broad sense, learning to cook for myself in Italy. In the United States, we have dozens of options for shopping for groceries. Around Rollins, there is Publix, Trader Joes, Wholefoods, and many more options. Near my apartment, there are only two very small grocery stores. Then, our grocery stores have dozens of large isles with more options and brands than imaginable. For something as trivial as microwave popcorn there are 5 different options. Having lived in Florida my whole life, I have become accustomed to this large selection and the brands I prefer.
As I first began venturing to the Roman grocery store, the limited options frustrated me. These options were not only limited in the brands, but the overall items themselves. So many foods I enjoy were not found in the grocery store. I remember going to look for specific vegetables and fruits to cook with and there were none. Additionally, each food had a much more limited shelf life than the same product in the U.S.
I did not understand this aspect of Italian life at first because it made no sense with my American mindset. Why would the Italians want less products that last for far less time? However, by continually living my daily life in Rome the answer soon began to present itself. Back at Rollins, I remember making a weekly trip to the grocery store and trying to stock my cart with everything I needed. Oftentimes I would forget something and hoped the Lakeside marketplace might have it. For example, I once forgot to purchase butter and bolted to Lakeside to find it.
As Lakeside was convenient, so too is the Italian grocery store. I stop 3 – 4 times a week to pick up small items or a dinner for the night. If I forget something or think my dish needs a pinch of something, I can always run a block away to grab the missing item. By having these smaller grocery stores, it adds convenience and even a sense of community to daily life in Rome. Even the small selection of items that once frustrated me now makes my life so much easier as each item is more high quality and reliable. Additionally, having a smaller selection and space allows the store to keep prices low.
Back home, I might spend $50 at Publix just for 2 days worth of items. But now I spend the equivalent amount for a week’s worth of food. I’ve come to love Italian grocery store culture because it is so convenient. There’s nothing easier than popping into my local Elite or Conad after a class to grab a snack or meal. When I head back to Rollins, I will really miss this as I battle parking lot traffic, long lines, high prices, and an overwhelming amount of options.
