Three Mekong Destinations Among UN Tourism’s New "Best Tourism Villages"

The world’s tourism spotlight is shining brightly on the Greater Mekong Sub-Region (GMS) as three of its charming villages have earned a prestigious place on the UN Tourism's 2024 list of "Best Tourism Villages." Chosen from over 260 candidates from across the globe, the three GMS villages—Bo Suak in Thailand, Tra Que Vegetable Village in Vietnam, and Azheke in Yunnan, China—have earned recognition for their dedication to community-based tourism and sustainable practices.

These GMS gems now join the expanding Best Tourism Villages (BTV) Network, the largest community of rural tourism destinations in the world, where they will stand alongside some of the most unique and transformative destinations in the world.

1) Bo Suak, Thailand: A Hub of Hand-Crafted Artistry

Bo Suak

Nestled in the lush countryside of northern Thailand, Bo Suak is renowned for its exquisite handcrafted pottery. This village embodies the heart of traditional Thai craftsmanship, where visitors can witness and participate in the intricate art of pottery-making. The village’s dedication to preserving and showcasing its cultural heritage through these artisan skills makes it a standout example of how tourism can contribute to cultural preservation and community empowerment.

2) Tra Que Vegetable Village, Vietnam: A Garden of Green Excellence

Tra Que

Tra Que, located just outside the ancient town of Hoi An in Vietnam, has long been celebrated for its organic vegetable gardens. This picturesque village, known for its sustainable farming practices, offers visitors a chance to explore the rich agricultural history of the region. Visitors can experience hands-on activities like planting herbs, learning about the health benefits of the local produce, and understanding the deep connection between the village’s economy and its environmental stewardship. Tra Que’s commitment to sustainable agriculture is a perfect example of how tourism can create a positive impact on both local communities and the environment.

3) Azheke, Yunnan, China: A Scenic Jewel of Rice Terraces

Rice Terraces

In the mountains of Yunnan, China, Azheke village is famous for its breathtaking rice terraces, which stretch across the landscape in stunning geometric patterns. This village is not only known for its picturesque scenery but also for its dedication to sustainable farming practices and its role in preserving the region’s cultural heritage. The terraced fields of Azheke, which have been cultivated for centuries, are a symbol of resilience and the harmonious relationship between people and nature. Visitors to Azheke can immerse themselves in the local way of life, learning about the ancient agricultural techniques that sustain these stunning landscapes.

A Celebration of Sustainable Tourism

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili praised the Best Tourism Villages initiative for recognizing the transformative power of tourism. "The Best Tourism Villages initiative not only acknowledges the remarkable achievements of these villages but also highlights the transformative power of tourism," Pololikashvili remarked. "We celebrate the villages that have embraced tourism as a pathway to empowerment and community well-being, demonstrating that sustainable practices can lead to a brighter future for all."

For the communities of Bo Suak, Tra Que, and Azheke, this recognition is the culmination of years of hard work and dedication to preserving their unique cultural and natural heritage while embracing tourism as a force for good. As the villages continue to grow and evolve, they stand as shining examples of how tourism, when done right, can uplift communities and protect the environment.

A Bright Future for the Mekong Region

This recognition of the three GMS villages marks an exciting milestone for the Mekong region, which has long been a hub of rich culture, biodiversity, and sustainable tourism initiatives. The hope is that this recognition will inspire even more villages throughout the region to embrace the power of tourism in a way that supports local communities, preserves traditions, and promotes environmental sustainability.

We extend our congratulations to the villagers of Bo Suak, Tra Que, and Azheke for their hard work and dedication to sustainable tourism. May these villages continue to bloom and inspire a thousand more tourism destinations across the Mekong region.