INTERACTION OF FOOD GEOGRAPHY AND GASTRONOMY TOURISM: A STUDY ON GASTRONOMY DESTINATIONS IN TÜRKIYE
Önder Yayla
Semra Günay
DOI: 10.35666/25662880.2024.10.26
UDC: 911.3[338.48-6:641](560)
Abstract: This study aims to examine the interaction between gastronomy tourism and food geography in Turkey. Gastronomy tourism holds significance in preserving local cultural values, fostering sustainable economic development, and enhancing the international recognition of destinations. The study seeks to contribute to the strengthening of local gastronomy identities and the support of tourism policies through sustainable strategies. A qualitative research method, specifically the document analysis technique, was employed. The analysis of the documents was conducted using content analysis, with Gaziantep, Hatay, and Afyonkarahisar—cities included in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network—selected as the study sample. Analyses based on various documents cover themes such as gastronomy tourism strategies, the impact of local food production on tourism, the economic contributions of geographically indicated products, and the preservation of cultural heritage. The findings reveal the decisive role of food geography in gastronomy tourism and its contribution to promoting local cuisines at an international level. The study presents recommendations for strengthening gastronomy tourism policies of local administrations, utilizing geographical indications effectively, and fostering the sustainable development of gastronomy tourism. By comprehensively evaluating the economic, cultural, and social impacts of gastronomy tourism, this research provides significant contributions to the literature.
Key Words: Food geography, Gastronomi tourism, Gastronomi destinations, Türkiye