Hedonic Consumption and Gastronomic Experiences of Tourists: An Exploratory Study on Behavioural Patterns in Travel
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.25145/j.pasos.2026.24.069Keywords:
Gastronomic tourism, Hedonic consumption, Tourist experience, Consumer behavior, Destination identityAbstract
This study investigates hedonic consumption behaviour in gastronomic tourism, examining how culinary experiences influence tourists' emotions, perceptions, and memory formation. Grounded in philosophical and psychological perspectives on hedonism, the research adopts a predominantly quantitative, exploratory, and descriptive approach, supported by qualitative interpretation. Data were collected through an online questionnaire comprising closed-ended items using Likert scales and open-ended questions, administered to 51 participants who had travelled within the previous 18 months. The results indicate that gastronomy plays a central role in the tourist experience, being strongly associated with pleasure, cultural connection, and emotional engagement. Local food consumption emerged as a key element of authenticity, whilst atmosphere, service quality, and sensory attributes were identified as relevant factors influencing satisfaction. Additionally, the findings suggest that gastronomic experiences contribute to memory formation and destination image construction, although they are not always the primary factor in destination choice. The study highlights the strategic importance of gastronomy for tourism development and destination differentiation
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- PASOS. Revista de Turismo y Patrimonio Cultural
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- Instituto Universitario de Investigación Social y Turismo. Universidad de La Laguna (España) - Instituto Universitario da Maia ISMAI (Portugal)
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