Design and promotion of tourism product based on Livonian culinary heritage (LIVONIAN CULINARY ROUTE)

Food and beverages play a major role in the culture, uniqueness and identity of a destination and this could be argued to be one of the major reasons why the interest in food tourism is increasing. Food is considered as an element of local culture and as an expression of the history, habits and traditions of a community or a geographical area. The project “Livonian Culinary Route” strengthens the identity of our common culinary heritage, promotes food traditions of Livonian area and involves over 250 food providers and producers from Estonia and Latvia. Generally, the project aims to create a unique platform through which to tell two nations culinary history from medieval times until nowadays. Bringing out the similarities and differences between the local cuisines based on local traditions will mainly support the identity of rural areas in both countries and makes it more attractive for foreign and domestic visitors. Recognition to local food, awareness of visitors about local food and knowledge of businesses how to improve the business performance through using culinary heritage will be achieved. Project will focus on locally grown and produced food. The participants of the route share common values, but it represents also a mosaic of food traditions of smaller regions. One specific aim is also to promote the usage of locally grown ingredients in food preparation and to establish strong regional co-operation networks between tourism/catering businesses and local food producers/farmers as short supply chains are most suitable in development of local food sector in regions.