The initiative aims to shine a light on ‘rural destinations where tourism is being effectively embraced’
Every year, UN Tourism (formerly the UN’s World Tourism Organisation) releases a list of the world’s Best Tourism Villages. Last year’s edition named 54 villages across the globe – a massive jump from the 32 announced for 2023 – and now UN Tourism is looking for the world’s most enticing rural towns to add to the next list.
So, how does it work? Well, all UN Tourism member states have been invited to submit up to eight contending villages through their National Tourism Administrations, and they can do so until April 24.
The villages are then assessed by some independent experts who evaluate nine different criteria. Some of the criteria examined include the promotion and conservation of natural resources; environmental, social and economic sustainability; and infrastructure and connectivity.
UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili says that ‘Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism recognizes those rural destinations where tourism is being effectively embraced as a tool for sustainable growth, opportunity or for preserving unique cultural and natural heritage.’
So, when the best ones are announced in the autumn, it will be because of their efforts to preserve and promote their communities while also embracing tourism.
You can read all about the villages named the best to visit in 2024 here, and here is some more information on the UN Tourism’s initiative.
Rebalancing tourism
Given so many destinations are becoming overcrowded and their local authorities are encouraging tourists to stay away, it makes sense that some lesser-known areas are being recognised. Japan and Italy have both launched schemes to redress the balance of tourism and divert visitors into undiscovered rural areas. You can read more about Japan’s scheme here and Italy’s here.
Source from:Time Out
