A study to determine the relationships between wine tourism experiences, sensory impressions and behavioral intentions of domestic and foreign tourists visiting Nevsehir

This study aims to analyze the relationship between wine tourism experiences, sensory impressions, and behavioral intentions of domestic and international tourists visiting Nevşehir. Wine tourism offers a unique opportunity for tourists to engage in sensory, cognitive, physical, emotional, and social experiences, enhancing the cultural identity of destinations and fostering tourist loyalty. The research involved 169 international and 244 domestic tourists who participated in wine tasting in Nevşehir, with data collected through convenience sampling and surveys conducted between May and August 2024. Quantitative methods, including descriptive statistics, difference tests, factor analysis, reliability analysis, and correlation analysis, were employed for data analysis. The findings reveal significant differences in wine tourism experiences between domestic and international tourists. Domestic tourists demonstrated higher levels of emotional experience and social identity, while no significant differences were observed in sensory, cognitive, or physical experiences. Domestic tourists also reported more favorable perceptions related to visual sensory experiences compared to international tourists, although no differences emerged in other sensory dimensions. Regarding behavioral intentions, domestic tourists exhibited stronger tendencies to recommend the destination, but there were no significant differences between the groups in terms of revisitation or loyalty intentions. The study highlights a strong connection between wine tourism experiences and sensory impressions, both of which are positively associated with behavioral intentions. Satisfaction derived from wine tourism experiences and sensory impressions significantly influences tourists' likelihood of recommending the destination and revisiting it, regardless of their nationality. In conclusion, this study underscores Nevşehir's potential in wine tourism, emphasizing the importance of experience-based strategies to enhance tourist satisfaction and loyalty. These findings provide valuable insights for sustainable development strategies, contributing to the region's cultural and economic growth.