Posted: Dec 31, 2022 | Updated: January 02, 2023
Best Tourism Villages 2022 results are in. Of the 32 villages recognized, 13 are located in Europe, eight in the Americas, eight in Asia and three in Africa.
Best Tourism Villages is a recognition given by UNWTO to rural destinations with accredited cultural and natural assets, and commitment to innovation and sustainability. Villages that adopt tourism to drive economic growth and job creation, while keeping and promoting community-based values, products and lifestyles.
Travel budget stretches further in rural communities. Lodging and food are less expensive than city stays. These off-the-beaten-path communities are also invaluable resources for meaningful and memorable learning experiences. From ancient traditions to local culture and food, they provide a treasure trove of life lessons for our modern lifestyles.
In rural communities, travellers are often embraced as members of the community rather than as outsiders. That personal connection fosters an environment of creating memories for travellers and their hosts. The slow pace lifestyle provides an opportunity to step back, relax and rejuvenate one’s physical and mental well-being.
The 2022 list according to world region with the most recognized number of destinations.
Europe (13)
- Zell am See, Austria
- Wagrain, Austria
- Sauris-Zahre, Italy
- Isola del Giglio, Italy
- Castelo Novo, Portugal
- Rasinari, Romania
- Bohinj, Slovenia
- Rupit, Spain
- Alquézar, Spain
- Guadalupe, Spain
- Murten, Switzerland
- Andermatt, Switzerland
Americas (8)
- Puqueldón, Chile
- Choachí, Colombia
- Aguarico, Ecuador
- Angochagua, Ecuador
- Creel, Mexico
- El Fuerte, Mexico
- Lamas, Peru
- Raqchi, Peru
Asia (8)
Eastern Asia
- Dazhai, China
- Jingzhu, China
- Pyeongsa-ri, Republic of Korea
- Thái Hải, Vietnam
Western Asia
- Birgi, Türkiye
- Mestia, Georgia
- Kfar Kama, Israel
- Umm Qais, Jordan
- AlUla Old Town, Saudi Arabia
Africa (3)
- Choke Mountains Ecovillage, Ethiopia
- Ksar Elkhorbat, Morocco
- Moulay Bouzerktoune, Morocco
1. Cultural and Natural Resources
2. Promotion and Conservation of Cultural Resources
3. Economic Sustainability
4. Social Sustainability
5. Environmental Sustainability
6. Tourism Development and Value Chain Integration
7. Governance and Prioritization of Tourism
8. Infrastructure and Connectivity
9. Health, Safety, and Security
