Article Title

An Exploration of the Role of Food Tourism in Sustaining Cultural Authenticity in Ireland

Authors

Lisa O'Riordan, Department of Tourism and Hospitality, Cork Institute of Technology
Dr. Aisling Ward, Department of Tourism and Hospitality, Cork Institute of Technology

Abstract

Authenticity is often a motivating factor for tourists. In many situations what occurs, however, is staged authenticity. Food is one of the few entities left that indicates true cultural authenticity. Food can bridge the gap between tourists and their understanding of and involvement in a place. Native cultures that are struggling to preserve their heritage and ways of life from globalising forces can use food as a defensive mechanism. This paper is part of a wider postgraduate study on food tourism and culture so will focus on the research completed to date, mainly the literature reviewed as well as initial primary research findings. The town of Kinsale, Co. Cork was the focus of the pilot case study, within which interviews were conducted with those involved in the food tourism sector including; restaurateurs, farmers’ market stall-holders, food trail guides and food festival organisers. Preliminary results indicate that food has played a key role in forming Kinsale’s identity and continues to do so, allowing traditions and culture to be maintained and rejuvenated.

Recommended Citation

O'Riordan, Lisa and Ward, Dr. Aisling (2014) "An Exploration of the Role of Food Tourism in Sustaining Cultural Authenticity in Ireland," Irish Business Journal: Vol. 9: No. 1, Article 4.
Available at: https://sword.cit.ie/irishbusinessjournal/vol9/iss1/4