A Simple Grocery Trip with an Unexpected Twist

Living in Dubai means to comply to certain rules, especially when it comes to food. If you’re longing for pork, you have to make a special trip to the Filipino store. It's one of the few places where it's available. So one weekend, my husband and I set out on a grocery run that would take us an hour away from home. We’ve done this many times, but this particular trip had a surprise waiting for me.

When we arrived, I took a quick photo of the store’s exterior. My blogging brain was in full swing. I thought it would make a great detail for a future post. As we stepped inside, I started capturing shots of sale items too. The place had that familiar warm vibe.

My husband, as usual, was manning the small cart, already heading for his favorite cashew nuts. He swears by the ones from this store because they're softer than those from other shops.

We continued strolling through the aisles. We picked up some Oreos for the pantry, grabbed sardines and tuna and made sure to get a few cans of Purefoods corned beef family's favorite! I reached for my favorite Barrio Fiesta bagoong. Then made my way to the sauces and powdered mixes section. I was looking forward to buying Pinakurat, that spicy, tangy vinegar that adds an extra bang to any dish. Sadly, they didn’t have any in stock this time. I even checked the rack twice, hoping I just missed it, but it seems like it’s currently out of stock. Maybe next time I’ll be luckier! Nearby was the noodles section, because what’s a Filipino home without Pancit Canton?

The next stop was the egg section, and right beside it were delicacies from Negros the Piaya. There were some goodies too, like Goldilocks, Hopia and Tarts.

We went over to the ice cream section. They stocked with a broad scope of brands and flavors to choose. I got the Igloo brand because I love how creamy it is and that it’s not overly sweet. This made it the ideal delight to enjoy without feeling too heavy or too sugary.
Then we reached the pork section, well hidden at the back of the store. My husband was already choosing cuts. I dragged out my phone and started taking pictures. I wanted to take the full experience. I noticed one of the staff eyeing me, but didn’t think much of it. Until I walked near the butcher and saw a bold sign. No Photography No Videography. My eyes broaden and my heart pounded. I quickly turned away. I noticed CCTV cameras all around. In a mini panic, I deleted every photo I had taken of the pork area and whispered Sorry, I didn’t see the sign. My husband was completely unaware of my sudden nervousness. He was focused intently on choosing the best cuts of pork, oblivious to the little whirlwind happening beside him. When we reached the cashier, I asked if photography was allowed. She smiled and said yes, just not in the pork section. That eased my nerves a bit. Back in the car, I told my husband what happened. We both burst out laughing. I won’t be taking grocery pics again. It was just a simple grocery trip and it came with an unexpected twist!

Photos taken using Samsung S25 Ultra
Collage using Canva