Dining with Pride: Gastronomic Experiences of Gay Travelers.

Abstract

The current study explores the gastronomic experiences of local gay travelers in Indonesia. The focus of this study is to know how food influences their travel experiences, their connections with the culture, and the affirmation of their identity. Conducting qualitative interviews with fifteen local Indonesian gay men, the study demonstrates that although sexual identity does not directly influence food choices, the inclusivity and safety of destinations notably influence travelers' comfort in exploring local cuisines. The participants emphasized the important role of authentic local foods, the role of social media in finding culinary experiences, and the difficulties encountered in conservative destinations. The study emphasizes the need for more inclusive environments, shedding light on destination marketers to increase Indonesia's appeal to gay travelers. By incorporating the Social Identity Theory and the Destination Image Theory, this research provides an understanding of how gastronomic tourism enhances cultural connections and identity expression among marginalized communities.