UN Tourism recently celebrated women from villages around the world who are driving community development, advancing social progress, and fostering economic growth in rural communities. Through initiatives like the Best Tourism Villages, UN Tourism aims to support these women and advance more sustainable and inclusive tourism that celebrates diversity and champions the indomitable spirit of women entrepreneurs everywhere.
Sandra Carvão, UN Tourism’s chief of Tourism Market Intelligence and Competitiveness, emphasized the importance of women in rural tourism development: “Our Best Tourism Villages initiative stands as pillars of support for women-led enterprises and entrepreneurs worldwide. By fostering sustainable tourism practices in rural communities, the program aims to empower women to become catalysts for economic growth and social progress. Through access to training, resources, and market opportunities, we’re not only advancing gender equality but also unlocking the untapped potential of women as key drivers of inclusive and resilient tourism development.”
In the Best Tourism Villages, projects thrive through the creativity of talented women and their families, transforming traditional crafts and cultural practices into valuable educational experiences. These initiatives empower local communities, providing them with a support network and a sustainable source of income. Here are some inspiring examples:
Lamas, Peru
Nestled in the lush Peruvian mountains, Lamas is home to the only Amazonian people of Andean descent committed to safeguarding their cultural legacy. In this vibrant village, Lamista women lead the preservation of traditional crafts through “Awadora,” a collective brand representing 46 indigenous artisans from five Quechua communities. This initiative empowers women economically, drives economic growth, and contributes significantly to community-driven tourism.
Lephis, Ethiopia
The Mishike Handicraft Association in Lephis empowers underrepresented women and drives social progress by harnessing local resources, such as grass and bamboo, for handicraft production. The Association provides opportunities for women to participate in the local economy and advances sustainable tourism practices through eco-conscious products that preserve the village’s rich biodiversity.
Creel, Mexico
Committed to preserving biocultural diversity, Creel’s Rarámuri communities promote job creation and women’s empowerment in the tourism sector through immersive gastronomy and weaving experiences. These activities contribute to the village’s vibrant cultural heritage while bolstering economic development and diversification.
Dongbaek, Republic of Korea
Renowned for its camellia flower cultivation used in cooking and beauty products, Dongbaek is a shining example of resident-led tourism. Spearheaded by female leadership, the Dongbaek Village Mill stimulates the local economy through camellia product production and immersive cooking classes that promote and preserve local food culture. The Dongbaek Town Preservation and Research Council actively supports women-operated tourism enterprises, with ten dedicated female members advancing the community’s tourism sector.
Xidi, China
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its unique architecture dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties, Xidi is a beacon for sustainable social development. The village’s Anhui Girls’ Agritainment initiative advances women’s employment opportunities and promotes heritage protection by offering visitors immersive home-stay experiences. The initiative also provides training for local providers and youth under 30 to increase their participation in the local tourism economy.
Oku-Matsushima, Japan
The Nadeshiko Kaisei Juku initiative promotes women in tourism through entrepreneurship seminars that educate women and female founders on the foundations of good business. As a direct result of the initiative, village women have transformed local markets and shops into flourishing enterprises, revitalising the local economy and contributing to the village’s resilience and social progress.