Bo Suak Village in northern Thailand wins tourism award by United Nations

A Thailand village is among UNWTO’s best tourism villages worldwide, sharing space on the prestigious list with three others in Southeast Asia.

The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has recognised four Southeast Asian villages among the world’s best tourism destinations for 2024, including Thailand’s first-ever entry to receive the accolade. Honoured for their contributions to rural tourism, these villages (two in Indonesia and one each in Thailand and Vietnam) are renowned for their cultural richness, natural beauty, and sustainable practices.

The awards, announced by UNWTO on November 15, 2024, highlight the transformative power of tourism in preserving cultural heritage, promoting local economies, and improving the quality of life for rural communities. Among 55 top rural destinations worldwide, they honoured four villages in Southeast Asia: Jatiluwih and Wukirsari in Indonesia, Bo Suak in Thailand, and Tra Que in Vietnam.

UNWTO’s best tourism villages in Southeast Asia

Ready for 2024 #BestTourismVillages? Meet our inspiring villages so far!
Over 130 villages have been recognized for commitment to:
✅ Sustainability
✅ Cultural Heritage
✅ Natural Assets
✅ Community Values
Stay tuned for 2024 reveal on 14 Nov#UNTourism @BTV_UNWTO pic.twitter.com/DYghwE2Xts

— Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism (@BTV_UNWTO) October 25, 2024

The UNWTO’s Best Tourism Villages initiative recognises rural destinations that prioritise sustainable tourism and community development. The UN agency reviewed over 260 applications from 60 countries to select 55 villages. Meet the Southeast Asian champions of rural tourism from Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam.

• Indonesia’s Jatiluwih Village, nestled amidst breathtaking rice terraces on Bali, offers visitors a serene escape. Its lush landscapes, fresh air, and traditional Balinese culture make it a popular destination for trekking, camping, and culinary experiences.
• Another winner from Indonesia, Wukirsari Village in Yogyakarta, is a cultural hub celebrated for its traditional arts. Visitors can immerse themselves in batik-making, leather shadow puppetry, and wood carving. The Wayang Wukirsari Program, a unique cultural experience, offers insights into Indonesian shadow puppetry, dance, theatre, and gamelan music.
• Bo Suak Village in northern Thailand made history as the first Thai village to receive the UNWTO accolade. This vibrant community offers a glimpse into authentic Thai culture, with traditional crafts like pottery and weaving. Visitors can experience the village’s way of life firsthand.

• Tra Que Village near the Hoi An Ancient Town is a testament to Vietnam’s rich heritage. Its fertile lands, surrounded by the Co Co River and Tra Que Lagoon, have been cultivated for centuries. Visitors can explore the village’s organic vegetable gardens, learn about traditional farming techniques, and experience local culinary traditions.

(Feature image credit: Jorge Franganillo/Flickr)

This article originally appeared on Travel + Leisure Thailand.