The influence of neophobia and enduring food involvement on travelers' perceptions of wellbeing—Evidence from international visitors to Iran

Abstract

This study adopts PERMA as the theoretical lens to analyze the influence of neophobia (reluctance to try new food) and enduring involvement on travelers' perceptions of the contribution of authentic food experiences to their well-being. Based on a survey of international visitors to Iran, the results show that authentic food experiences are strongly associated with positive emotions and meaningfulness of a trip. Higher food involvement and lower neophobia are associated with stronger perceptions that authentic food experiences contribute to well-being. Furthermore, this study demonstrates the applicability of the PERMA model for understanding multiple dimensions of well-being emanating from tourism experiences.