Appropriation of public space on urban gastronomic environments in a touristic city, Ensenada, B.C.

Abstract

The article examines the impact of tourist activity on the appropriation of public space in gastronomic environments in the city of Ensenada, B.C., Mexico. The study focuses on the phenomenon of urban street food, an element rooted in local culture and closely linked to tourism development. Through a qualitative approach it is investigated how the growing tourist demand may affect the use of public space for local inhabitants. The results reveal spatial conflicts derived from the increase in gastronomic tourism, which in the future could compromise the social dynamics of local inhabitants. This study contributes to understanding the challenges associated with the commodification of public space in tourism contexts, offering a relevant perspective for urban planning and tourism management in tourism-oriented cities.