The street food experiences of the local-guided tour in the meal-sharing economy: the case of Bangkok

Abstract

PurposeThis study aims to understand the components of the street food experiences of the local-guided tour in the meal-sharing economy based on the online reviews of tourists who experienced a meal-sharing activity with a local guide in Bangkok.Design/methodology/approachBased on the qualitative approach, this study involved a content analysis of 384 narratives on Withlocals.FindingsThe study identified five components that embrace the street food experience: a local guide’s attributes, perceived food authenticity, local culture, perceived hygiene or cleanliness. Results also revealed that the Thai street foods are unique and authentic and can reach this experience level through a local guide.Originality/valueAlthough the importance of international travellers' street food experiences and the popularity of the meal-sharing economy platforms are rapidly growing, there is no study which had combined both of these phenomena together to date. It is the first attempt to reveal the components of street food experiences in a meal-sharing platform.