In an exciting and enlightening session hosted by the BTV Network, we recently presented a thought-provoking Tech Talk titled “AI-Powered Solutions for Rural Tourism”. This virtual event held in two languages brought together stakeholders from our vibrant network of villages to explore the transformative power of artificial intelligence in the tourism sector. Led by the…
In a notable development, the Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism initiated a series of Online Informative Sessions in February. A total of six sessions were conducted in English, Spanish, French, and Arabic. The informative outreach garnered significant interest, drawing in 117 participants from our Member States. During these sessions, the dedicated team members systematically…
By Geovanna Robayo Guerra, Ms. In Sustainable Tourism Management The path towards sustainability presents opportunities and challenges for the people in villages undergoing the Upgrade Villages Programme by UN Tourism. This initiative addresses challenges and seizes opportunities to create actions that appeal to tourists who value culture and nature. Within the Upgrade programme, enchanting…
UN Tourism has opened applications for the 2024 edition of its Best Tourism Villages initiative. Over the past three editions, UN Tourism – the new name of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) – received almost 600 applications from nearly 100 countries. Currently, the UN Tourism Best Tourism Villages Network brings together 186 members globally, comprising…
UNWTO has launched the world’s biggest digital hub for communities focused on rural tourism. The ‘TourismConnectsRural’ platform will boost collaboration across the Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO Network, connecting around 200 rural destinations in every global region. Empowering Village Connections TourismConnectsRural is designed to facilitate internal communication, allowing villages to exchange experiences and insights, and…
The UNWTO’s Tourism for Rural Development Programme recently organized a workshop, titled “Reimagine Rural,” at the UN Youth Cafe in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Held at the UNWTO premises, the event brought together over 70 young minds to explore innovative ways of advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through tourism in a Saudi-inspired countryside. During the…
In a concerted effort to disseminate crucial insights, the Tourism Market Intelligence and Competitiveness Department (TMIC) recently organized a Spanish-language webinar to present the findings of the Member States Survey Results report. This illuminating session, with representatives from Peru and Ecuador, marked a continuation of the dialogue initiated earlier in an English-language webinar conducted in…
The Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO Network recently played host to a riveting Masterclass – “Adventure Travel Prospects for Rural! Tips and Tricks!” The virtual gathering unfolded a trove of insights aimed at enriching the experiences and opportunities for rural destinations. Gergana Nikolova took center stage, bringing a wealth of expertise as the Regional Director…
The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has announced its list of Best Tourism Villages 2023. The accolade recognizes villages that are leading the way in nurturing rural areas and preserving landscapes, cultural diversity, local values, and culinary traditions. In this third edition 54 villages from all regions were selected from almost 260 applications. A further 20…
The vibrant community of Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO, recently played host to an engaging MASTERCLASS, a session that delved deep into the intricacies of collaborating with specialized tour operators. Titled “Let’s talk business! Working with Specialized Tour Operators,” the masterclass offered a platform for learning, sharing, and upskilling in the realm of rural tourism.…