Food in Tourism: Exploring Inherent Influential Factors in Food Decision Processes of Travelers

Abstract

Food is a central aspect to the tourist experience and plays an important role to the millions of tourists worldwide. The purpose of this research was to explore the factors that have significant effects on the gastronomic choices of travelers who visit destinations with dissimilar food choices than those available in their home environments. An empirical analysis was performed to test an existing conceptual model (Mak, Lumbers, Eves, & Chang, 2012) was be modified and tested. The interaction between the predicting and the predicted variables was analyzed and a moderating variable, represented by involvement in the decision, was introduced into the existing model. The findings of the study report the factors that influence the decision making process with regard to local food purchases. Base on the responses to a questionnaire by 330 U.S. based participants, the analysis revealed the significant factors in choosing to consume local cuisine at a destination. The dissertation�s findings highlight the key role that Culture, Motivational Factors, and Food-related Personality Traits contribute to the propensity of travelers to consume local foods at a destination.