Are you an avid traveler seeking places that are rush-free, peaceful, and simple environment? Look no further! The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has just unveiled its highly anticipated list of the best tourism villages for the upcoming year. Embracing the spirit of sustainable tourism, this prestigious international organization has recognized 55 remarkable villages from around the globe, surpassing last year’s count of 32. Since its inception in 2021, the program has been a testament to promoting authentic travel experiences.
Prepare to be enthralled as we embark on a journey to uncover the hidden gems among these picturesque destinations. The list features a delightful blend of small towns and villages from diverse corners of the world, including India, Japan, Mexico, China, Ethiopia, and Italy. To ensure fairness, the villages are listed in alphabetical order in English, with no specific rankings attributed to them.
The UNWTO acknowledges rural tourism destinations that possess accredited cultural and natural resources, a dedication to safeguarding community-based values, and a strong emphasis on innovation and sustainability. Let’s explore some of the awe-inspiring destinations that made it onto this coveted list:
Hidden Treasures in Asia
Dongbaek, South Korea: Tucked away in Jeju Island, Dongbaek stands out for its captivating camellia flowers. While Jeju Island primarily focuses on tea (camellia sinensis), Dongbaek takes pride in nurturing its thriving camellia flowers. The village runs a cooperative allowing locals to sell camellia seeds and care for the island’s plants, fostering a unique community.
Shirakawa, Japan: Nestled in Gifu prefecture, north of Nagoya, Shirakawa captivates visitors, especially during winter. The village’s thatched-roof homes covered in snow create an enchanting winter wonderland.
Xiajiang, China: Situated in eastern Zhejiang province, Xiajiang is a treasure trove of traditions. Local residents passionately preserve their heritage by sharing traditional skills like tea making and Chinese opera with inquisitive visitors, safeguarding these ancient customs.
Dhordo, India: Chosen as India’s representative, Dhordo resides in the Rann of Kutch salt desert. Despite facing substantial damage from a 2001 earthquake, Dhordo’s remarkable recovery, fueled by a strategic tourism approach, reflects its resilience and ongoing growth.
European Charms
Europe’s contributions to the UNWTO list showcase the continent’s diverse cultural and environmental riches.
Sigüenza, Spain: A short distance from Madrid, Sigüenza entices travelers with its awe-inspiring 12th-century cathedral and easy access to Barranco del Río Dulce Natural Park.
Slunj, Croatia: Known for its dedication to preserving local traditions, Slunj has sustained its heritage through indigenous music, dances, and eco-friendly travel infrastructure, appealing to nature enthusiasts.
Ordino, Andorra: Nestled in Andorra, Ordino fascinates visitors with its agricultural heritage, celebrated through local festivals recognized by UNESCO for their cultural significance.
South American Marvels
Peru leads with five villages recognized by UNWTO, showcasing the country’s commitment to promoting lesser-known destinations.
Yanque, Peru: Serving as the gateway to Uyo Uyo ruins and Colca Canyon hot springs, Yanque remains an undiscovered gem for adventurous travelers seeking unique experiences.
Chacas, Peru: Acting as an entry point to Huascaran National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Chacas beckons nature enthusiasts to explore its pristine landscapes.
Caleta Tortel, Chile: Housing just 523 residents, Caleta Tortel harmoniously blends nature and human creativity with its distinct cypress wood architecture, showcasing Chile’s artistic flair.
La Carolina, Argentina: Once a bustling gold rush site, La Carolina echoes Argentina’s historical richness through captivating architecture and traditional customs, inviting history enthusiasts to delve into its storied past.
The full list of best tourism villages:
- Al Sela, Jordan
- Barrancas, Chile
- Biei, Japan
- Caleta Tortel, Chile
- Cantavieja, Spain
- Chacas, Peru
- Chavín de Huantar, Peru
- Dahshour, Egypt
- Dhordo, India
- Dongbaek, Republic of Korea
- Douma, Lebanon
- Ericeira, Portugal
- Filandia, Colombia
- Hakuba, Japan
- Higueras, Mexico
- Huangling, China
- Jalpa de Cánovas, Mexico
- Kandovan, Iran
- La Carolina, Argentina
- Lephis Village, Ethiopia
- Lerici, Italy
- Manteigas, Portugal
- Morcote, Switzerland
- Mosan, Republic of Korea
- Oku-Matsushima, Japan
- Omitlán de Juárez, Mexico
- Oñati, Spain
- Ordino, Andorra
- Oyacachi, Ecuador
- Paucartambo, Peru
- Penglipuran, Indonesia
- Pisco Elqui, Chile
- Pozuzo, Peru
- Saint-Ursanne, Switzerland
- Saty, Kazakhstan
- Schladming, Austria
- Sehwa, Republic of Korea
- Sentob, Uzbekistan
- Shirakawa, Japan
- Sigüenza, Spain
- Şirince, Türkiye
- Siwa, Egypt
- Slunj, Croatia
- Sortelha, Portugal
- Anton am Arlberg, Austria
- Tân Hoá, Viet Nam
- Taquile, Peru
- Tokaj, Hungary
- Văleni, Moldova
- Vila da Madalena, Portugal
- Xiajiang, China
- Zapatoca, Colombia
- Zhagana, China
- Zhujiawan, China
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