The Relationship Between Local Cuisine Eating Tendencies of Tourists and Their Memorable Tourism Experiences: The Case of Kayseri

Abstract

The aim of this study is to evaluate the relationship between tourists' tendency to eat local cuisine and memorable tourism experiences, and to contribute to the lack of knowledge in the current literature on this matter. For this purpose, firstly, a detailed literature review was presented, and then research questions were included. Survey method was preferred as data collection tool within the scope of field research. Primary data were collected by using face-to-face and drop-collect methods from a total of 329 visitors who volunteered to fill out the questionnaire and received service from various hospitality business (restaurants and hotels) in Kayseri between 1-30 November 2022. These data, collected using convenience sampling technique, were analyzed using descriptive statistics, EFA, correlation, regression, independent sample t-test and ANOVA analyses. The most stunning finding of the study is the determination of a positive relationship between tourists' tendency to eat local cuisine and unforgettable tourism experiences. In addition, some differences were determined according to the demographic characteristics and travel experiences of the tourists.