Making Samarkand More Welcoming: Solving Language and Price Barriers for Tourists

Abstract

Gastronomy is an integral element within the cultural tourism industry as it allows traditional recipes to be maintained, supports local businesses and ensures cultural knowledge is preserved. Uzbekistan has a vast gastronomy culture as it has a rich history of trading, diverse produce and cultural exchange. Utilising cuisine can have positive impacts on a region by encouraging tourists to travel to smaller areas, engage with the local people and understand the cultural traits of a region. This article will explore how sustainable gastronomy can support the development of tourism in regions of Uzbekistan. A qualitative approach has been taken throughout this research project as it looks at academic sources and cultural heritage sources. Gastronomy tourism can support small businesses, increase local food chains, preserve traditional food knowledge and provide a diverse range of tourism products within regions. However, in order for it to be effective in the long term, community involvement, responsible resource management, appropriate infrastructure and cooperation between sectors of tourism should be included.