THE IMPACT OF LOCAL CUISINE ON TOURISTS’ ECO-TOURISM EXPERIENCE IN UZBEKISTAN

Abstract

Eco-tourism is more than protecting the environment; it is about protecting local communities and cultures by encouraging sustainable tourism practices as an alternative to mass tourism. This includes taking care of the environment, preserving cultural authenticity and promoting healthy lifestyles for local residents. Tourists are looking for experiences (not just things), and local cuisine is becoming increasingly significant in influencing the destination decisions and overall satisfaction of tourists. The goal of this article is to investigate how local cuisine affects the perceptions of tourists, satisfaction, and engagement in eco-tourism destinations in Uzbekistan. Through qualitative analysis of relevant academic literature and tourism reports, along with actual examples from the tourism industry, this paper will demonstrate the impact of local food on authentic eco-tourism experiences.The research findings indicate that local cuisine creates opportunities for cultural immersion for visitors, provides rural communities with greater economic independence, and reinforces the sustainability of eco-tourism destinations. This article includes suggestions for the integration of local cuisine into eco-tourism development strategies in Uzbekistan