Gastronomy Tourism through the Lens of Local Food
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Abstract
The potential of local cuisine in driving gastronomy tourism is increasingly recognized. This study delves into the narratives of gastronomy tourism, local culinary traditions, and the determinants influencing the demand for local food consumption. Through analysis and opinion synthesis, it aims to offer insights conducive to comprehending the role of local food in this context. Within the tourism economy, gastronomy tourism underscores the pursuit of authentic culinary experiences rooted in the origins, narratives, and culinary techniques, often facilitated through food festivals, tastings, and culinary workshops. Travelers seek immersive encounters with genuine local fare, blending elements of regional uniqueness, exoticism, and health consciousness. Factors shaping local food consumption encompass both consumer/tourist dynamics and producer/community influences and soft power policy through local food. Recommendations for future research include investigating the authenticity of individual local cuisines to cultivate distinctive culinary identities, exploring the integration of food science and health care in culinary education, and examining the role of social media in promoting unique gastronomic experiences.
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