GASTROTOURISM AS A COMPONENT OF THE TOURISM INDUSTRY IN EASTERN UKRAINE

Abstract

Problem statement: The recovery of the tourism industry after the pandemic requires the use of new tools and directions of development. Gastrotourism, as a component of the tourism industry, is gaining momentum in Ukraine, has every chance to become the highlight of the eastern regions, rich in gastronomic traditions against the background of the development of modern food industry enterprises. The purpose of the study: identification of Ukrainian gastronomic product and ways of its development in the eastern regions of Ukraine, which will help create a tourist attraction of these areas for domestic and foreign tourists. The subject of research is the theoretical and practical aspects of gastrotourism development as a component of the tourism industry. Research methods: in the process of scientific work were used general and special methods of scientific abstraction, induction and deduction, statistical analysis, analogy and quantitative and qualitative comparison. Research hypothesis: it is assumed that the development of the gastronomic component of the tourism industry in eastern Ukraine should be based on a set of theoretical foundations, historical background and current circumstances of business development in the region. Presentation of the main material: The review of theoretical aspects and historical facts of development of gastrotourism allowed to supplement the existing classification of its kinds. Analysis of trends in gastrotourism in Ukraine shows that, despite the rich gastronomic diversity in the east, the leaders in this activity are the western regions. Originality and practical significance of the research: the objects of Luhansk region presented in the research, at the request of the owners themselves, can become promising gastronomic attractions of Luhansk region. Conclusions and prospects for further research: gastrotourism development will contribute to the restoration of abandoned areas of eastern Ukraine, will identify an alternative way of their development and create new tourist destinations at the interregional level.