For many communities around the world, tourism is an absolutely key industry. It can be the main sources of income, a primary driver for entire economies. That can be true for entire countries all the way to small rural town. Every place has something to offer its visitors, and UN Tourism wants to make sure you know about the lesser known villages around more recognized destinations. In particular, the rural communities that are rarely on tourists' radars are a focus.
Each year, UN Tourism announces the Best Tourism Villages from their member countries. Currently, there are 160 member states involved in UN Tourism, so the sample is pretty much around the planet. That being said, 55 villages made the cut in 2024. The purpose is to help these communities promote their cultures to the world, attract visitors, and promote sustainable, eco-friendly tourism options. It's a lot to accomplish with one list, but it is an interesting one.
When a village applies, it is evaluated based on nine criteria. Sustainability plays a huge part in the decision process as does community and local government commitment to developing tourism as an economic driver. Need is also a factor as these communities are often facing economic issues as well as declining populations as people move to more urban areas looking for work. Supporting tourism in rural regions can help combat all of that.
This year's list includes villages in Mexico, Japan, Peru, Portugal, and China. Again, the villages chosen have to be UN Tourism members to be able to apply, with 260 applications being made in 2024. Given most countries are members, being chosen for this list is a big deal. The 2025 applications will open next year, allowing an entirely new group of villages to benefit from being part of this ongoing initiative.