Italian catering is the main source of attraction for tourists, regardless of their nationality. However, from the comparison between the data in the 2023 Report on food and wine tourism edited by Roberta Garibaldi and those Food Travel Monitor (World FoodTravel Association), various differences emerge in the approach to the experience between Italians, Americans, French, British, Canadians, Mexicans and Chinese. Italy has the lowest percentage of tourists who said they had tried a gastronomic experience in a gourmet restaurant in the last two years: only 16% of the sample interviewed did so, compared to 46% of Americans, 42% of French and 35% of British, but also 41% of Chinese and 47% of Canadians. The highest figure of all, however, concerns Mexicans, who in 49% of cases have chosen haute cuisine or gourmet brands.
Yet, 74% of our compatriots - the highest percentage ever, ahead of Canada with 64% and China with 63% - chose to spend at least one evening on holiday at a restaurant to try an unforgettable experience, but evidently the choice went to a more traditional and less sophisticated place. After all, Italians on holiday are particularly predisposed to visit farmers' markets and agricultural fairs, while only 30% of US tourists and 24% of British tourists seem to be characterized by the same passion.
Another irresistible attraction for the Italian tourist seems to be that of the food festival, chosen by 35% of the interviewees and also in this case the Italian percentage is the highest in international comparison. On the other hand, a visit to a farm is an experience experienced by 28% of Italians on holiday. "Today, tourists are looking for authenticity and innovation, they want to fully experience the food and wine of the place they visit," says Roberta Garibaldi, author of the Report on Italian Food and Wine Tourism. "The high interest of foreigners in catering - especially gourmet - is a great opportunity for our country, which can boast excellence and recognisability from North to South, especially in a context of growth in international flows".
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