TOU322: What is Culinary Tourism and What are the important factors when tourists choose to go for culinary tourism: Tourism and Events Project Report, MU, Singapore

Culinary tourism is focused on food as an attraction for exploration and a destination for tourism (Long, 1970). The importance of culinary tourism is often looked over, and it is a common misperception that it is only about trying new kinds of food, which is not the case.

Now that culinary tourism is significantly more emphasized compared to previous years, it has evolved and now includes a wide range of products – some examples include culinary trails, cooking classes, food guides, receipts, etc. Most culinary tourism’s main focus is on experiencing new foods but it is also educational; learning through and about new and different cuisines and the people involved in preparing them, the food systems which provide access, and the possible contribution of tourists to their sustainable system.

In this research, there will be coverage on why tourists choose to do culinary tourism and what motivates them to pursue this direction instead of the different types of tourism. The data will be collected via face-to-face interviews and google surveys going forward.

Research Questions 

What is Culinary Tourism?

What are the important factors when tourists choose to go for culinary tourism?

How much importance is placed on food and drinks when deciding a vacation?