The Influence of Local Culture and Authenticity on Tourist Satisfaction in Sustainable Tourism Destinations

Abstract

This qualitative study examines the influence of local culture and authenticity on tourist satisfaction in sustainable tourism destinations, with a specific focus on post-disaster recovery in Donggala, Central Sulawesi. Using a phenomenological approach, data were collected through in-depth interviews with 15 tourists and 5 tourism operators, participatory observation, and focus group discussions. The findings reveal that tourist satisfaction is fundamentally shaped by three interconnected factors: immersive cultural experiences, perceived authenticity of interactions, and ethical satisfaction derived from contributing to local community recovery. Tourists demonstrated a critical ability to distinguish between staged cultural performances and genuine cultural immersion, with hands-on activities like traditional weaving and fishing with local communities emerging as significant satisfaction drivers. The study further identifies that in post-disaster contexts, satisfaction transcends conventional parameters to incorporate ethical dimensions, where tourists derive fulfillment from knowing their visits support local economic recovery. These findings contribute to the theoretical understanding of constructivist authenticity and experience economy in sustainable tourism, while offering practical implications for developing community-based tourism models that balance cultural preservation with economic benefits. The research proposes a new conceptual framework linking cultural immersion, perceived authenticity, and ethical satisfaction in sustainable tourism development, particularly relevant for destinations rebuilding after crises.