Tourist Destination

e-ISSN: 3023-6169

Publisher: Bekir Bora DEDEOĞLU

Tourist Destination

Period: The journal is published biannually, with two issues released each year in July and December. e-ISSN: 3023-6169

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Issue: Vol. 3 No. 1 (2025)

Vol. 3, No. 1 (2025) • pp. 1-9 • Theoretical paper

An overview of the Sephardic Cultural Heritage in İzmir through the lens of religious tourism

Selda Yesügey

The aim of this study is to examine the Sephardic Jewish cultural heritage in İzmir from the perspective of religious tourism, to raise awareness about this heritage, and to explore how it can be preserved and sustainably utilized through tourism. Adopting a qualitative research approach, the study relies on secondary data sources to conduct a situational analysis. Within this scope, both tangible heritage elements, such as places of worship and residential spaces related to Sephardic Jews in İzmir, and intangible cultural heritage elements, including culinary traditions, handicrafts, and the Ladino language, are examined. Due to the limitations of the research, the four most prominent and best-preserved synagogues among the 11 Sephardic synagogues in Izmir were emphasized. For culinary culture, Boyoz and Sübye, known as Izmir delicacies, were discussed. The study aims to contribute to destination marketing strategies, the development of alternative tourism forms, and the preservation of cultural diversity. Additionally, it seeks to address a gap in the literature by contributing to the field of religious tourism through the relatively underexplored case of Sephardic Judaism in Türkiye.

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.16910782

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Vol. 3, No. 1 (2025) • pp. 11-16 • Research Papers

Accessible tourism in Cappadocia: a qualitative study from the perspective of tourism stakeholders

Fatmagül Hanbal, Koray Çamlıca

This study aims to examine the current state of accessible tourism in the Cappadocia region through the perceptions of tourism stakeholders. Adopting a qualitative approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 tourism professionals, and thematic analysis was applied. The findings reveal that despite the region's natural and historical appeal, accessibility for individuals with disabilities is limited due to physical infrastructure deficiencies, inadequate staff training, and geographical challenges. Participants made recommendations emphasizing infrastructure improvements, training programs, and the role of local authorities. The research highlights the need for systemic interventions to make Cappadocia an inclusive destination, contributing to sustainable tourism policies.

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.16951209

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Vol. 3, No. 1 (2025) • pp. 17-23 • Theoretical paper

Digital revitalization of cultural and historical experiences in the Van Lake Basin with augmented reality: A conceptual approach

Ali Bozbey, Ali İnanır

Augmented reality (AR) applications can support tourism through the reconstruction of historical structures in their original forms, interactive tour guides, and digital information systems. The aim of this study is to explore how the cultural and historical heritage of the Van Lake Basin can be digitized using AR technology and how a more interactive experience can be offered to visitors. Creating a conceptual framework in this research was conducted by reviewing the literature and considering the resources available in the region evaluates the impacts and feasibility of augmented reality in the regional tourism sector. The findings reveal that implementing AR applications at historical and touristic sites in the Van Lake Basin can contribute both to the local economy and to the region's potential to become a sustainable tourism destination. However, it has also been observed that certain infrastructure and technical requirements must be met in order to effectively implement such applications. It is anticipated that this study will increase academic interest in the region within the context of augmented reality and provide guidance for local authorities and the tourism sector, making AR applications a more attractive option.

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17100614

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Vol. 3, No. 1 (2025) • pp. 25-37 • Research Papers

Determining the obstacles and attitudes of Generation Z consumers towards organic labeled food

Berkan Şenberber, Gülşah Çağlak, Bahar Karaören, Sena Keşoğlu, Lokman Dinç

Increasing health concerns and environmental worries on a global scale have rapidly increased consumer interest in organic foods, leading to significant growth in organic food production and retail. The Z generation, in particular, differs from other generations in terms of the values, social norms, and lifestyles that shape their consumption habits. The aim of this study is to reveal Generation Z consumers' attitudes, perceptions, and barriers regarding organic-labeled foods. A qualitative research approach was adopted in the study, and data was collected from 16 participants studying gastronomy using a semi-structured interview technique. The data obtained were analyzed using descriptive analysis methods, and seven main themes were identified through a manual coding process: natural environment, healthy and nutritious, limitations, unhealthy and harmful, level of knowledge, taste perception, and desired organic foods. The findings show that Generation Z has positive attitudes towards organic food, but these attitudes are difficult to translate into behavior due to factors such as high prices, limited access, and time constraints. The study interprets the findings within the framework of the Theory of Planned Behavior (Ajzen, 1991). According to this theory, positive attitudes and social norms increase young people's intention to consume organic food, but when perceived behavioral control is weak, an intention-behavior gap emerges. The results indicate that the organic food sector needs to strengthen its emphasis on health and naturalness in its marketing strategies targeting young consumers, increase social media and influencer collaborations, and develop solutions to reduce access and pricing barriers. The research contributes to the literature theoretically and provides practical recommendations to practitioners.

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.17159981

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