Examining Souvenirs as Tourist Products in the Context of Destination Identity: The Cappadocia Example

Öz

This study investigates the role of souvenirs as tourist products within the framework of destination identity, focusing on the unique characteristics of the Cappadocia Region. Qualitative interviews with tourists in the region are conducted to examine how souvenirs reflect and contribute to the destination identity of the region. The findings reveal that souvenirs serve not only as tangible memories but also as a tool to promote the distinct identity of Cappadocia. The analysis highlights the interaction between tourist opinions and destination identity, and reveals the contribution of souvenirs to the image of the region in tourist product marketing. This study contributes to the understanding of how destination identity can be evaluated through the strategic development of tourist products, offering implications for tourism stakeholders in similar regions.

Anahtar Kelimeler

• Destination Identity
• Souvenir
• Tourist Product
• Cappadocia Region

Turistik Ürün Olarak Hediyelik Eşyaların Destinasyon Kimliği Bağlamında İncelenmesi: Kapadokya Örneği

Öz

Bu çalışma, hediyelik eşyaların turistik ürün olarak rolünü, Kapadokya Bölgesi’nin eşsiz özelliklerine odaklanarak, destinasyon kimliği çerçevesinde araştırmaktadır. Araştırma kapsamında nitel yöntem kullanılarak bölgede yerli turistlerle yapılan görüşmeler yoluyla hediyelik eşyaların bölgenin destinasyon kimliğine nasıl yansıdığı ve katkıda bulunduğu incelenmektedir. Bulgular, hediyelik eşyaların yalnızca somut hatıralar olarak değil, aynı zamanda Kapadokya'nın farklı kimliğini tanıtmak için bir araç olarak da hizmet ettiğini ortaya koymaktadır. Analizler, turist görüşleri ve destinasyon kimliği arasındaki etkileşimi vurgulayarak, turistik ürün pazarlamasında hediyelik eşyaların bölge imajına olan katkısını da ortaya koymaktadır. Bu çalışma, destinasyon kimliğinin, benzer bölgelerdeki turizm paydaşları için çıkarımlar sunarak, turistik ürünlerin stratejik geliştirilmesi yoluyla nasıl değerlendirilebileceğinin anlaşılmasına katkıda bulunmaktadır.

Anahtar Kelimeler

• Destinasyon Kimliği
• Hediyelik Eşya
• Turistik Ürün
• Kapadokya Bölgesi

Kaynakça

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