Best Tourism Villages of 2024: Discover Indonesia’s Jatiluwih and Wukirsari

Best Tourism Villages of 2024: A Southeast Asia Showcase!

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Well, well, well, it seems the tourism industry is still trying to send us to places where we can actually see the countryside and what life is like “off the beaten path.” No more overpriced cocktails beside an infinity pool; it’s all about village life now! And guess what? The World Tourism Organization has recognized four villages in Southeast Asia as the Best Tourism Villages of 2024!

But beware, you might actually learn something while on vacation! The UNWTO picked two villages from Indonesia, plus one each from Thailand and Vietnam—because why have a boring holiday in one country when you can bounce around Southeast Asia like a ping-pong ball! The winners were announced on November 15, 2024, and let’s just say, these villages didn’t win by promoting the world’s best sunbathing spots but rather for their sustainable tourism practices, social equity, and protecting the environment. Who would’ve thought vacationing could also be “good for the planet”?

Highlights of the Best Tourism Villages

1. Jatiluwih Village, Bali, Indonesia

First up, we have Jatiluwih Village, sitting at a lofty 700 meters above sea level, which is rather apt—perfect for those who believe elevation gives you a spirit of adventure! With stunning rice terraces sprawling over 53,000 hectares, we’re talking about views that could make even a Snapchat filter weep in jealousy!

Not only does Jatiluwih offer beautiful landscapes, but it’s also near Batukaru, Bali’s second-highest volcano. Just think: one minute you’re enjoying delicious local cuisine, and the next you’re contemplating the meaning of life while hiking up a volcano. Terrifying or invigorating? We’ll let you decide!

2. Wukirsari Village, Bantul, Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Next on our whimsical tour, we hop over to Wukirsari Village, regarded as the arts and crafts capital of Bantul. Get thrilled at the thought of dabbling in batik making or wood carving—because who wouldn’t want to come back from vacation with the ability to create art that can cover your entire living room?

If you’re lucky (and a little less artistically challenged than average!), you might catch the Wayang Wukirsari Program showcasing Indonesian shadow puppetry. It’s the kind of cultural immersion that’ll have you baffled as to why your school plays didn’t involve elaborate costumes and live performances!

3. Bo Suak Village, Thailand

Bo Suak Village in Thailand is another gem! This vibrant village has proudly become the first of its kind in Thailand to snag the Best Tourism Village award. It’s as if they’ve got a neon sign saying, “We have 6,500 lovely people, come hang out with us!”

Want to get your hands dirty? Engage in traditional crafts like pottery and weaving, and experience life at a slower pace, all just a short drive from bustling Nan City. Sounds like a break from reality that we all desperately need!

4. Tra Que Village, Vietnam

And last but not least, we have Tra Que Village in Vietnam, which has been cultivating organic gardens since the 16th century. If you thought veggie farming was boring, think again! With a prime seat beside the Co Co River and Tra Que Lagoon, you’re in for green thumbs and gourmet meals like your grandparents used to make! (Hopefully, minus the lectures!)

Thanks to some nifty government ecotourism initiatives, this village has transformed into a picture-perfect spot for city slickers looking to dabble in country living. So, grab your shovels and get ready for some natural therapy!

As the world becomes ever more globalized, it’s heartening to see initiatives like this that remind us of the beauty found in simplicity and tradition. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and let’s hit the road to these stunning villages! Because nothing says “good time” like sustainable tourism—who knew that saving the planet could also involve eating delicious local food?

This format highlights the key points of the article and incorporates a comedic tone while presenting the information in a structured and engaging way for readers. Enjoy your journey to the best tourism villages of Southeast Asia!

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has honored four villages in Southeast Asia with the prestigious title of Best Tourism Villages for the year 2024. Among these remarkable communities, two are nestled within the stunning landscapes of Indonesia, while one each hails from Thailand and Vietnam.

The announcement, made public on November 15, 2024, recognizes Indonesia’s Jatiluwih and Wukirsari Villages, Thailand’s Bo Suak, and Vietnam’s Tra Que Village for their outstanding contributions to sustainable tourism.

In a rigorous evaluation process, UNWTO scrutinized over 260 entries from 60 nations, identifying villages that excel in sustainable practices, with a strong focus on social equity, environmental stewardship, and economic development. This “Best Tourism Villages” initiative underscores the vital importance of tourism in safeguarding rural heritage, diverse traditions, local biodiversity, vibrant cultures, and the livelihoods of communities often based in agriculture and artisanal crafts.

Here are the highlights of these exemplary tourism villages in Southeast Asia:

1. Jatiluwih Village

Situated at an elevation of 700 meters above sea level on the island of Bali, Jatiluwih Village captivates visitors with its expansive rice terraces, which span an impressive 53,000 hectares.

This picturesque village is adjacent to Mount Batukaru, Bali’s second-highest volcanic peak, and is a haven for adventurers looking to trek, camp, or cycle through its scenic landscapes. Travelers are also treated to delectable local dishes crafted from fresh, regionally harvested ingredients.

2. Wukirsari Village

Located in Bantul, near Yogyakarta City, Wukirsari Village is renowned as a vibrant hub for Indonesian arts and crafts. Visitors can immerse themselves in traditional arts such as batik creation, shadow puppetry, and intricate wood carving.

The highlight of Wukirsari is the Wayang Wukirsari Program, where guests delve into the captivating world of Indonesian shadow puppetry, featuring traditional dance and theater alongside melodic gamelan music. This cultural experience culminates in an engaging live performance of the epic Ramayana at Panggung Pendopo, adorned with authentic costumes.

Tourists participate in a batik workshop at Kampung Batik Giriloyo Wukirsari Bantul Yogyakarta. Doc. Batik Giriloyo

3. Bo Suak Village

Nestled in Mueang Nan District, Bo Suak Village, known as the first Thai recipient of the “Best Tourism Village” award, encapsulates the rich tapestry of authentic Thai culture. This lively community of approximately 6,500 residents is conveniently located just a 15-minute drive from Nan City, inviting visitors to partake in traditional crafts like pottery and weaving while savoring the charms and simplicity of village life.

4. Tra Que Village

Situated a mere 3 kilometers from Vietnam’s historic Hoi An, Tra Que Village has a storied history dating back to the 16th century. It is beautifully bordered by the Co Co River and Tra Que Lagoon, benefiting from a favorable climate and fertile soil that supports its reputation for organic vegetable farming.

Initially, the village had scattered vegetable gardens and uneven fields due to pond excavations for irrigation. However, over the last two decades, the local government has implemented a successful ecotourism model, which included relocating homes, leveling fields, and building improved roads to foster better accessibility for tourists.

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How can tourists ‌participate in ⁤traditional practices like pottery and weaving while visiting Bo Suak ‍Village?

N‍ style=”font-weight: 400;”>Bo Suak Village, located in Thailand, stands out as⁢ the first village in the country to receive the Best Tourism‍ Village award from UNWTO. With a‌ community of 6,500 friendly⁤ locals, this vibrant village invites visitors to engage with its rich⁢ traditions and crafts.

Here, tourists can dive into ⁤traditional​ practices such as pottery and weaving, all while soaking⁢ in the tranquil, slower pace of village life—just a⁤ short jaunt from ​the more hectic Nan City. It’s⁣ the ⁢perfect opportunity for a much-needed ⁣digital detox!

4. Tra Que Village,‌ Vietnam

let’s explore Tra Que Village in Vietnam,⁤ which boasts a rich⁤ history of organic farming that dates back to the 16th century. Nestled alongside the Co Co River and Tra Que Lagoon, this village is a‍ haven for‌ those who want to​ learn the art of veggie farming while indulging in fresh, homemade meals reminiscent of Grandma’s cooking⁢ (minus the debates about life choices, hopefully!).

Thanks to‌ various ecotourism‍ initiatives, Tra Que has become‍ an idyllic escape for urban dwellers ‍seeking a taste⁤ of agrarian⁤ life. ‍Grab a ‌shovel, roll ⁢up your sleeves,⁤ and ‍get ready ⁣to dig into some⁣ natural therapies that are good for the soul!

As we ⁤navigate through our globalized world, it’s refreshing to​ discover places where traditions are ⁤preserved, and the⁤ environment is honored. By choosing these ⁤award-winning villages ⁣as your holiday destination, you’re not just taking a ‌vacation; you’re participating in a movement towards⁣ sustainable⁣ tourism that⁢ enriches lives and⁣ preserves cultures. So pack your bags, prepare your‌ palate ​for local⁣ flavors, and get ready for an adventure that’s as good‌ for‌ the ​planet as ⁣it is for you!