Exploring the Politics of Gastronomy Tourism and Gentrification Nexus: Gastro-Driven Development and Peri-Urban Geographical Change in the case of Urla Izmir

Abstract

This study examines the intersection of gastronomy tourism, gentrification, and reverse migration in Urla, a peri-urban area in İzmir. It introduces “gastro-driven gentrification” to explain how culinary tourism reshapes space, fuels property speculation, and displaces long-term residents. While promoting economic growth and global visibility, these changes intensify socio-spatial inequalities and cultural commodification. Reverse migration accelerates transformation by bringing affluent newcomers focused on lifestyle over local identity. The study highlights tensions between development, justice, and sustainability, situating Urla’s case within broader tourism and environmental crises. By situating Urla’s transformation within the broader context of planetary crises and unsustainable tourism trends, it calls for sustainable planning that balances growth with cultural authenticity, ecological resilience, and spatial equity.