Perceived Risks on Tourist Destination Loyalty in Cavite City Shaped by Food Satisfaction

Abstract

The study explores the relationship between tourists’ satisfaction with local food and loyalty to Cavite City, Philippines. While shedding light on the mediating role of perceived risks, encompassing COVID-19, man-made and natural related risks, in shaping this relationship. Destination loyalty pertains to the strong desire of tourists to revisit and recommend a destination, whereas satisfaction with local food triggers heightened participation in gastronomic experiences and nurtures destination loyalty, thereby motivating repeat visits. On the other hand, the research also assesses how perceived risks influence the link between tourists’ food satisfaction and loyalty to the destination. These perceived risks, spanning COVID-19, man-made, and natural risks, may influence tourists’ decision-making and behaviour, impacting their willingness to dine out and destination preferences. The study findings reveal that tourists’ satisfaction with local food significantly boosts destination loyalty, even in the presence of potential risks linked to natural disasters and human-induced risks. Moreover, the research highlights the significant impact of perceived risks on tourists’ decision-making processes and underscores the necessity for destinations to prioritize their safety image. Destinations can effectively attract and retain tourists in a highly competitive landscape by ensuring satisfaction and fostering loyalty through risk mitigation measures.