Creative Tourism and Gastronomy: Tools for Sustainable Development and Social Transformation in Vulnerable Communities

Creative tourism and gastronomy are powerful tools for sustainable development, especially in socially vulnerable communities. This chapter examines their transformative impact, focusing on how these fields contribute to economic inclusion and cultural preservation. Unlike traditional tourism, creative tourism fosters cultural engagement and shared experiences, often through activities like cooking classes with local ingredients and food tours that highlight culinary traditions. These initiatives not only enrich tourist experiences but also promote the use of local products, supporting both environmental sustainability and economic diversification. In communities like Passagem de Mariana’s Creative District, projects such as Quintal da Núria exemplify how creative and gastronomic tourism can generate income and employment while preserving cultural heritage. This exploratory and descriptive study employs qualitative methods to thoroughly understand perceptions, experiences, and meanings from various stakeholders. It utilizes semi-structured interviews with the proprietor, tourism project managers, and DCP residents to assess the impact of creative tourism on businesses and the region. Núria’s leadership, as a woman of color, highlights the inclusive potential of these initiatives. By hosting workshops and events that celebrate local cuisine, the project enhances community pride and fosters socioeconomic inclusion. However, challenges remain, including the need for better training, infrastructure, and local collaboration. To succeed, creative tourism must involve the authentic participation of communities, ensuring fair distribution of benefits and safeguarding cultural integrity. Future research should explore the long-term impacts of these initiatives and their replicability in other vulnerable regions. In conclusion, creative tourism and gastronomy hold great potential for advancing sustainable development by empowering communities, promoting cultural appreciation, and fostering economic growth.

The authors thank CNPq for supporting the project entitled “Public Tourism Policies in the Cultural Heritage of Humanity on Estrada Real (Brazil)" approved in Call No. 40/2022 - Line 3B - Network Projects - Pro-Humanidades 2022 (CNPq PROCESS 420194/2022-3).