The street food experiences of the local-guided tour in the meal-sharing economy: the case of Bangkok

ÇİFÇİ İ., ATSIZ O., Gupta V.

BRITISH FOOD JOURNAL, vol.123, no.12, pp.4030-4048, 2021 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 123 Issue: 12
  • Publication Date: 2021
  • Doi Number: 10.1108/bfj-01-2021-0069
  • Journal Name: BRITISH FOOD JOURNAL
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, ABI/INFORM, Aerospace Database, Agricultural & Environmental Science Database, CAB Abstracts, Communication Abstracts, Food Science & Technology Abstracts, Hospitality & Tourism Complete, INSPEC, Metadex, Veterinary Science Database, Civil Engineering Abstracts
  • Page Numbers: pp.4030-4048
  • Keywords: Bangkok, Local-guided tours, Meal-sharing economy, Street food experience
  • Yozgat Bozok University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to understand the components of the street food experiences of the local-guided tour in the meal-sharing economy based on the online reviews of tourists who experienced a meal-sharing activity with a local guide in Bangkok. Design/methodology/approach Based on the qualitative approach, this study involved a content analysis of 384 narratives on Withlocals. Findings The study identified seven components that embrace the street food experience: a local guide's attributes, perceived food authenticity, local culture, perceived safety and novelty. Results also revealed that the Thai street foods are unique and authentic and can reach this experience level through a local guide. Originality/value Although the importance of international travellers' street food experiences and the popularity of the meal-sharing economy platforms are rapidly growing, there is no study which had combined both of these phenomena together to date. It is the first attempt to reveal the components of street food experiences in a meal-sharing platform.