SHERIDAN, WYOMING – November 15, 2024 – The World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) has revealed its list of 55 rural destinations designated as "Best Tourism Villages" for 2024. This initiative recognizes villages that are harnessing tourism to preserve their unique cultures, traditions, and natural beauty while promoting sustainable development.
A Global Showcase of Rural Tourism
The Best Tourism Villages initiative, launched in 2021, aims to showcase the potential of tourism to drive economic and social development in rural areas. The program emphasizes the importance of preserving cultural and natural heritage, empowering communities, and promoting sustainable practices.
Celebrating Excellence in Rural Tourism
This year's list of 55 villages represents a diverse range of destinations across all regions, each offering unique experiences and demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainability.
"Tourism is a vital tool for inclusion, empowering rural communities to protect and value their rich cultural heritage while driving sustainable development," said UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili.
The Transformative Power of Tourism
The Best Tourism Villages initiative not only recognizes the remarkable achievements of these villages but also highlights the transformative power of tourism. By leveraging their unique assets, these communities can foster economic growth, promote local traditions, and enhance the quality of life for their residents.
A Growing Network of Sustainable Villages
The Best Tourism Villages Network continues to expand, now encompassing 254 villages worldwide. This network provides a platform for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and best practice exchange among rural destinations committed to sustainable tourism development.
The Selection Process
Villages were evaluated based on nine key areas:
- Cultural and Natural Resources
- Promotion and Conservation of Cultural Resources
- Economic Sustainability
- Social Sustainability
- Environmental Sustainability
- Tourism Development and Value Chain Integration
- Governance and Prioritization of Tourism
- Infrastructure and Connectivity
- Health, Safety, and Security
The Three Pillars of the Initiative
The Best Tourism Villages initiative comprises three pillars:
- Recognition: Acknowledges outstanding rural destinations with accredited cultural and natural assets, a commitment to preserving community-based values, and a clear dedication to innovation and sustainability.
- Upgrade Programme: Supports villages in enhancing areas identified as weaknesses during the evaluation process, helping them qualify for recognition.
- Network: Provides a platform for exchanging experiences, good practices, and learning opportunities among members, fostering collaboration with experts and public and private sector partners.
Success Stories from the Upgrade Programme
This year, seven villages from the Upgrade Programme successfully achieved recognition as Best Tourism Villages, demonstrating the program's effectiveness in supporting rural destinations on their path to sustainable tourism development.
A Global Community of Rural Tourism Champions
The Best Tourism Villages initiative celebrates the achievements of rural communities that are embracing tourism as a pathway to empowerment and community well-being. By showcasing their successes and fostering collaboration, UN Tourism is helping to shape a more sustainable and inclusive future for rural tourism worldwide.