Complex Culinary Tourism Offers on Online Platforms
Chapter 3 discusses how digital platforms play a vital role in promoting and selling culinary tourism experiences. It covers the types of platforms available, the advantages of using them, and strategies for effectively leveraging these tools to reach a global audience. In summary, Chapter 3 highlights the critical role that online platforms play in promoting and selling culinary tourism experiences. It emphasises the need for local businesses and tourism organisations to integrate their offers into digital platforms to maximise visibility and accessibility. By effectively utilising these tools, regions can attract a broader audience, enhance their food tourism identity, and drive growth in this competitive market.
Key Points
- Popular Online Booking Platforms:
- The chapter identifies several major platforms used for booking culinary experiences, such as booking.com, Viator, GetYourGuide, Travelling Spoon, and EatWith. These platforms specialise in offering tourists easy access to a wide variety of food-related experiences, including cooking classes, food tours, and private meals with locals.
- Integration with Local and Regional Websites:
- Some destinations integrate booking engines directly into their regional tourism websites, enabling seamless access to local culinary experiences. Platforms like FareHarbor offer ready-made booking solutions that can be embedded into regional tourism sites, allowing local businesses to reach a broader audience.
- Advantages of Using Digital Platforms:
- Online platforms provide several benefits, such as global reach, centralised booking, and marketing support. They enable small local businesses to gain visibility and sell their culinary experiences alongside established global brands. Additionally, these platforms often have affiliate programs that can boost sales through partnerships with major Online Travel Agencies (OTAs).
- Expanding Reach Through Multiple Channels:
- By listing their offers on multiple online platforms, culinary tourism providers can increase their reach and attract tourists from diverse markets. The chapter highlights the importance of being present on widely recognised platforms while also considering specialised booking engines that cater specifically to food tourism.
- The Role of Specialised Platforms:
- Platforms like Travelling Spoon and EatWith are specifically designed for culinary tourism and offer unique features that align with food-focused travellers. These platforms allow tourists to book authentic local experiences, such as home-cooked meals or market visits, which might not be available through traditional OTAs.
- Strategic Use of Technology:
- The chapter emphasises the importance of leveraging technology to enhance the visibility and accessibility of culinary tourism offers. Using booking engines and affiliate programs not only streamlines the selling process but also connects local providers with a global audience eager to explore authentic food experiences.
