Empowering Communities: UNWTO Announces Best Tourism Villages of 2023

Empowering Communities: UNWTO Announces Best Tourism Villages of 2023

By Author

Published on October 28, 2023

The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) recently unveiled its selection of the Best Tourism Villages for 2023. These accolades recognize the remarkable contributions of villages across the globe in nurturing rural landscapes, preserving cultural diversity, upholding local values, and safeguarding culinary traditions.

In its third edition, 54 villages were chosen out of nearly 260 applicants, with an additional 20 villages joining the Upgrade Programme. This combined total of 74 villages now comprises the UNWTO Best Tourism Villages Network. The announcement took place during the UNWTO General Assembly held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili emphasized the power of tourism in promoting inclusivity, empowering local communities, and spreading benefits across regions. He stated, "This initiative acknowledges villages that have leveraged tourism as a catalyst for their development and well-being."

Key Evaluation Areas:

The villages were evaluated in nine essential areas, including:

  • 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

Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO: This category recognizes exceptional rural tourism destinations with accredited cultural and natural assets, a commitment to preserving community-based values, and a dedication to innovation and sustainability across economic, social, and environmental dimensions.

Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO Upgrade Programme: It offers vital support to villages in their journey to meet recognition criteria, addressing identified shortcomings during the evaluation process.

The Best Tourism Villages Network: This acts as a platform for sharing experiences, best practices, learning, and opportunities among its members. It welcomes contributions from experts and both public and private sector partners engaged in promoting tourism as a catalyst for rural development.

The network continues to expand every year, with the addition of these 74 new members, totaling 190 villages as part of this unique global rural network.

Peru boasts the most Best Tourism Villages on the list with five. Following closely are countries like Japan, Korea, Portugal, Mexico, China, and Spain, each having three or four entries. Additionally, Indonesia has three villages included in the upgrade program list, with Peru, Türkiye, and Italy following with two entries each.

Here is the list of Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO for 2023 (in alphabetical order):

  • 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

  • St. 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

The UNWTO Best Tourism Villages initiative, launched in 2021, plays a significant role in the UNWTO Tourism for Rural Development Programme. This program aims to foster development and inclusion in rural areas, combat depopulation, encourage innovation, integrate value chains through tourism, and promote sustainable practices.

The call for submissions for the fourth edition is expected to take place in the early months of 2024, offering new opportunities for rural destinations to shine on the global stage.


Surge in Short-Haul Travel Among Gen Z and Millennials: A New Trend

Surge in Short-Haul Travel Among Gen Z and Millennials: A New Trend

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 10, 2024

Recent data reveals a remarkable 25% increase in short-haul travel, driven predominantly by the preferences of Gen Z and Millennials. This surge underscores the evolving travel habits of younger generations, who seek quick, accessible getaways that offer unique experiences without the extended time commitment. Monsoon travel, in particular, has gained popularity, with destinations offering lush landscapes, vibrant festivals, and a respite from the summer heat.

This trend highlights significant shifts in consumer behavior and presents new opportunities for the travel and hospitality sectors. To gain deeper insights, we spoke with The Hosteller, India's largest brand-operated backpacker hostel chain. They emphasized the importance of understanding these new travel patterns and adapting offerings to meet the demands of this dynamic demographic.

About The Hosteller:

Established in 2014, The Hosteller is India's largest brand-operated backpacker hostel chain, headquartered in Mumbai. With a presence in over 55 Indian destinations, The Hosteller offers budget-conscious travelers a unique blend of affordability and experience. Under the leadership of Mr. Pranav Dangi, The Hosteller has become a dynamic force in hospitality, shaping the future of travel with innovative offerings and a commitment to customer satisfaction.

Focused on creating immersive and standardized experiences, The Hosteller prioritizes best-in-class services and a warm, welcoming environment. The brand's proprietary tech platform facilitates community-driven experiences, fostering connections and creating lasting memories. The Hosteller's mission is to empower "young at heart" individuals to explore the world, aiming to become the world's largest standardized and self-operated chain of backpacker hostels, delivering exceptional experiences to global travelers. With a dynamic young team and over 600 employees, The Hosteller continues to grow and innovate in the backpacker hostel space.


AMRPL Unveils ‘Vue De Luxe’- A Premier Sunglass Concept Store at Lucknow and Ahmedabad Airports

AMRPL Unveils ‘Vue De Luxe’- A Premier Sunglass Concept Store at Lucknow and Ahmedabad Airports

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on June 8, 2024

April Moon Retail Pvt Ltd (AMRPL) has launched its first exclusive sunglass concept store, ‘Vue De Luxe,’ located at the Departure Sections of Terminal 3 at Lucknow CSS International Airport and Terminal 2 at Ahmedabad International Airport. This new venture aims to elevate the shopping experience for premium sunglasses, targeting millennial and Gen Z travelers, business professionals, and holidaygoers.

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‘Vue De Luxe’ offers a sophisticated selection of luxury eyewear for both men and women, featuring a curated collection of international brands. Shoppers can find renowned names such as Burberry, Dolce & Gabbana, Emporio Armani, Fendi, Givenchy, Off-White, Prada, Prada Linea Rossa, Ray-Ban, Tom Ford, and Versace.

Designed to be visually appealing and state-of-the-art, the store provides a seamless shopping experience. It is equipped with digital screens that display brand videos and communications, enhancing the overall ambiance. The launch of 'Vue De Luxe' is well-timed, coinciding with the holiday season and the recent cricket season, which have brought increased passenger traffic to both Lucknow and Ahmedabad Airports. These prime airport locations are ideal for catering to travelers seeking luxury and style.

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Gaurav Singh, CEO of AMRPL, shared his excitement about the launch, stating, “It is with immense pride and joy that I announce the opening of our latest sunglass concept, ‘Vue De Luxe,’ at the new Lucknow Airport Terminal. This luxury sunglasses store is not just a testament to April Moon Retail Pvt Ltd's commitment to excellence but also a symbol of our vision to bring the finest experiences to the discerning traveler. ‘Vue De Luxe’ stands as a beacon of style and sophistication, offering a curated selection of eyewear that embodies the spirit of luxury. The store is designed to provide our customers with an unparalleled accessory experience. I invite you all to visit 'Vue De Luxe' and see the world through a new lens of luxury.”

AMRPL’s initiative with ‘Vue De Luxe’ reflects their dedication to offering top-notch products and services to travelers. By focusing on high-quality brands and an enhanced shopping environment, ‘Vue De Luxe’ aims to set new standards in luxury eyewear retail. This launch marks a significant step in AMRPL’s mission to provide exceptional shopping experiences in premium locations.

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About AMRPL

April Moon Retail Pvt Ltd (AMRPL) is a company committed to delivering premium retail experiences. With the introduction of ‘Vue De Luxe,’ AMRPL continues to showcase its dedication to excellence, catering to the needs of discerning travelers by offering a unique blend of luxury and style.


Snow World Entertainment Announces Major Expansion Plans Across Key Indian Cities

Snow World Entertainment Announces Major Expansion Plans Across Key Indian Cities

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 24, 2024

Snow World Entertainment, a trailblazer in the Indian entertainment and hospitality sector, announced today its ambitious plan to expand its footprint across the nation. Founded by Prasuk Jain, the company is set to open new facilities in prominent cities including Bangalore, Hyderabad, Thane, Pitampura, Connaught Place, and Golf Course Extension Road, aiming to double its presence by 2026.

Prasuk Jain, the visionary behind Snow World Entertainment, stated, "The entertainment sector in India holds immense potential for growth. Our objective is to revolutionize entertainment by introducing unique experiences that cater to diverse customer preferences, contributing to the 'Make in India, Make for the World' initiative and enhancing India's global stature in these sectors."

The expansion includes the launch of new outlets under popular brands like The Game Palacio, The Game Ranch, Amazonia, and Snow World. With an investment of approximately INR 300 crores in 2023-24 and INR 500 crores in 2024-25, the expansion is expected to generate numerous job opportunities across its new locations.

Currently, Snow World Entertainment operates 14 luxury gaming and bar concepts and three complete restaurants nationwide. Notable among them are The Game Ranch, a cowboy-themed luxury gaming and bar experience; The Game Palacio, a palace-themed venue; KOA, a bohemian-themed restaurant; and Amazonia, an immersive dining experience themed around the Amazon rainforest.

By focusing on customer satisfaction, embracing innovation, and advocating ecological responsibility, Snow World Entertainment is poised to redefine the entertainment landscape in India, ensuring unforgettable experiences for its patrons.

For further information on Snow World Entertainment and its range of services, please visit Snow World Entertainment.

About Snow World Entertainment:

Founded by Prasuk Jain, Snow World Entertainment stands as a pioneering force in the Indian entertainment and hospitality industry. The company boasts a diverse portfolio, including Snow World, The Game, Amazonia, and several other distinct brands, each offering unique experiences tailored to a variety of customer interests and age groups. Dedicated to delivering exceptional entertainment, Snow World Entertainment is shaping the future of leisure and hospitality in India.

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