Gastronomy as an effect of visitor loyalty: the Peruvian (Lima) case

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study is to analyse Peruvian cuisine in the context of visitors’ overall experience, focusing on the loyalty of tourists in terms of gastronomy, their satisfaction with the destination, and the overall image. Design/methodology/approach Data were obtained from tourists who visited Lima (Peru). Structural equation modeling was used to verify the hypothesized relationships. Findings The results obtained confirm that satisfaction and appreciation, such as quality, have a positive influence on tourists’ loyalty and, therefore, they recommend and express their desire to come back to this destination. The traditional gastronomy of Lima stands out as a prominent factor on overall experience. Research limitations/implications This paper helps the managers of cities in their decisions to improve the satisfaction and seek loyalty of those who visit a city, emphasizes the role of gastronomy. Practical implications The results obtained in this research can be used for the establishment of new strategies for the promotion of the destination in terms of tourism and traditional food. Originality/value The gastronomy in Lima, (Peru) is recognized worldwide, as well as a stimulus for tourism because it increases the number of visits to the destination. Several studies carried out in these types of destinations have shown the existence of a relationship between gastronomy, overall experience, satisfaction and loyalty. However, there are no previous studies carried out in Lima that sustain this relationship. This work makes a contribution that completes the academic literature on the study of the emotional bonds between Peruvian gastronomy and the tourist who visits it and its behaviour.

Influence of gastronomic motivations, satisfaction and experiences on loyalty towards a destination

“…Therefore, it is necessary to consider all the aspects and details that make the culinary experience in the destination unforgettable. This will result in satisfaction with the destination and, consequently, loyalty towards a particular destination (Esparza-Huamanchumo et al. , 2022).…”

“…As Horng and Tsai (2012) point out, gastronomy is part of the total tourist experience, meaning bad gastronomic experiences can adversely affect the tourist's overall satisfaction with the destination (Agyeiwaah et al, 2019;Nield et al, 2000). A tourist's culinary experience in a particular place can therefore contribute to satisfying their travel needs, with said satisfaction potentially leading to a return visit to the location (Esparza-Huamanchumo et al, 2022). As such, cuisine has become a central motivation for choosing a tourist destination and plays a vital part in the complete tourist experience (Babolian Hendijani, 2016).…”

“…, 2000). A tourist's culinary experience in a particular place can therefore contribute to satisfying their travel needs, with said satisfaction potentially leading to a return visit to the location (Esparza-Huamanchumo et al. , 2022).…”

“…It is worth noting that there are numerous studies that establish a relationship between gastronomic satisfaction and loyalty to the destination (Chen and Chen, 2010; Leong et al. , 2017; Chen and Huang, 2019) and between destination satisfaction and loyalty towards a destination (Esparza-Huamanchumo et al ., 2022). In this respect, destination image and perceived value are also essential antecedents of destination satisfaction, and the latter, in turn, is an antecedent of loyalty towards a destination (Sun et al ., 2013).…”

The Impact of Affective Gastronomy Experience on Satisfaction and Revisit Intention: Evidence from Turkey

“…Gastronomy is an important option for choosing and exploring a place to visit. Because it is a pillar of the destination's cultural heritage (Esparza et al, 2022) and an excellent source of attraction (Carvache et al, 2020).…”