Submitted by Jake Kalinowski the 2024 Spring program in Sydney, Australia…
Something that I particularly love about Australia’s culture is the availability of fresh produce markets. In the States, they are not as common, but in Europe and abroad they are around every corner. I think this is wonderful because it supports small local businesses and the markets create a more intimate relationship between consumer and the grocer. I love making a routine and heading down to Paddy’s Market in Haymarket. It is only a 10 minute walk from where I live in Sydney. The prices are also cheap and you can purchase a lot of wonderful fruits and vegetables that are quality as well as the price being awesome.
I love trying new fruits and vegetables as well and the produce market helps me expand my palate. The produce is more accessible and I can always just purchase one fruit or vegetable. If I don’t like it, then I know better for next time. I love buying avocados for some avocado toast in the mornings. Mangos are a fruit that I’ve always liked, but from being here in Australia so far I’ve become particularly fond of them. They are absolutely delicious and so sweet. They are perfect on a warm summer’s day in Australia.
The fruit and vegetables also are grown right here in Australia which I find super neat and makes me even more motivated to head to the market. I like making relationships with the grocers I purchase from because it makes the shopping experience more special.
I wish markets were more common in the United States. In my town, we have the common farmers market which is nice, but it’s only once a week in the summers, instead of all year round abroad, and with more availability throughout the week. I think this should be incorporated in the States because it introduces more connection between people, fosters community, and encourages a healthy lifestyle. (Submitted on February 10, 2024)