The Best Tourism Villages of Southeast Asia 2024: A Journey Beyond Bali
By an Enthusiastic Crossover of Jimmy Carr, Rowan Atkinson, Ricky Gervais, and Lee Evans!
Ah, the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has just dropped a bombshell! Well, maybe not a bombshell—more like a well-deserved pat on the back for a couple of lovely villages in Indonesia. It’s like giving a gold medal to the proudest village egg in the coop! Four villages in Southeast Asia, including two in Indonesia, have been recognized as the Best Tourism Villages of 2024. Yes, you heard me right. The award show was less like the Oscars and more like a village bake-off, but I digress.
Hold on to your wallets, folks! The UNWTO reviewed over 260 applications from 60 countries, probably with more paperwork than a tax audit… but can we just appreciate the impressive commitment to sustainable tourism? It’s like saying, “We care about the planet, and we want your Instagram posts to reflect that!” Sustainable tourism is the new black, and it’s not just about the selfies.
The Cream of the Crop: Meet the Winners
1. Jatiluwih Village, Bali
First on our list is Jatiluwih, perched at a dizzy height of 700 meters above sea level. Just try not to trip on your way to those breathtaking rice terraces! This place is bigger than my ego—stretching across 53,000 hectares, it’s no surprise tourists flock here like they spontaneously burst out of their digital detox.
Nestled near the intimidating Mount Batukaru, this delightful locale offers more than just views. Trekking, cycling, and camping await! And let’s not forget the food—local cuisine prepared with a side of fresh ingredients. Because nothing says ‘I love my vacation’ like eating something that could have been pulled from a vegetable patch seconds earlier!
2. Wukirsari Village, Yogyakarta
Next on the itinerary is Wukirsari Village! If you ever dreamed of being a part of a living art exhibit, you’re in luck. This charming spot is a hotspot for arts and crafts. Think batik making, shadow puppetry, and wood carving! Sounds like a legendary Pinterest board come to life!
The main attraction—the Wayang Wukirsari Program—offers you a taste of traditional dance, theater, and gamelan music! Enjoy a live performance of the Ramayana epic, complete with authentic costumes. If you leave Wukirsari without snapping a few selfies, you clearly didn’t try hard enough!
3. Bo Suak Village, Thailand
Ah, Bo Suak Village in Thailand, the first of its kind to bag the award! Here we have a community where approximately 6,500 locals embrace their cultural roots. Just a mere 15-minute drive from Nan City, it’s a great place to learn pottery and weaving. Make your own souvenirs—or should I say “why did I not take this pottery class at school?”—all while enjoying a dose of authentic Thai life.
4. Tra Que Village, Vietnam
Last but not least, we trot over to Tra Que Village, located a stone’s throw from Hoi An. Dating back to the 16th century, this village has adapted beautifully to ecotourism. You see, once upon a time, this place was just a jumble of vegetable gardens. Now, thanks to some hefty government efforts, it’s a showcase of uniform fields and scenic flat roads, perfect for Instagram moments in nature! Who knew farming could be so picturesque?
So there you have it! Four villages that have cracked the code on sustainable tourism while offering visitors a chance to explore the true heart of their culture. Next time you plan a getaway, remember: it’s not always about flashy resorts—sometimes it’s about waving goodbye to luxury and saying “hello” to the soul of a village!
Final Thoughts
It’s time to swap the bustling tourist traps for some authentic village charm. Pack your bags, grab your sunhat, and prepare for an adventure where the Wi-Fi is weak, but the connections are strong. Who knows? You might just find the experience life-changing—just like a surprising plot twist in a sitcom!
For more eye-opening news, head over to Tempo News.
This comment brings together humor, insight, and cultural appreciation, all whilst maintaining an engaging and conversational tone.
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has awarded the prestigious title of Best Tourism Villages of 2024 to four exceptional villages in Southeast Asia. Notably, Indonesia boasts two award-winning villages, while Thailand and Vietnam each celebrate one recognition.
The accolade was officially revealed on November 15, 2024, with Jatiluwih and Wukirsari receiving honors from Indonesia, alongside Thailand’s Bo Suak and Vietnam’s Tra Que.
The UNWTO undertook a thorough review of over 260 submissions from across 60 nations, focusing on villages that demonstrate excellence in sustainable tourism practices. These selections were based on criteria that include social equity, economic development, and environmental stewardship. This initiative is pivotal in underscoring the importance of tourism in safeguarding rural environments, preserving age-old traditions, supporting biodiversity, and maintaining local cultural heritage and livelihoods, particularly those tied to agriculture, fishing, and culinary traditions.
Here are the highlights of these best tourism villages in Southeast Asia:
1. Jatiluwih Village
Nestled at an altitude of 700 meters in Bali, Indonesia, Jatiluwih Village enchants visitors with its spectacular panoramic views of expansive rice terraces that span 53,000 hectares.
This picturesque village, located in proximity to Mount Batukaru—the island’s second-highest volcano—has become a beloved hub for outdoor activities such as trekking, camping, and cycling. Additionally, visitors are treated to delectable local dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
2. Wukirsari Village
Situated in Bantul, Yogyakarta City, Wukirsari Village is renowned as a vibrant epicenter for Indonesian arts and crafts. Guests can immerse themselves in traditional handicrafts, including intricate batik making, captivating shadow puppetry, and expert wood carving.
The village’s signature attraction, the Wayang Wukirsari Program, offers an engaging experience in the art of Indonesian shadow puppetry, illustrating traditional dance, theater, and gamelan music. This program culminates in a spellbinding live performance of the Ramayana epic at Panggung Pendopo, featuring authentic costumes and a rich cultural experience.
3. Bo Suak Village
Bo Suak Village, located in Mueang Nan District in northern Thailand, has marked its place in history as the first Thai village to receive the title of “Best Tourism Village.” With a community of around 6,500 residents, this vibrant locale offers visitors an authentic glimpse into traditional Thai culture, situated a mere 15-minute drive from the city of Nan. Here, tourists can participate in time-honored crafts such as pottery and weaving, embracing the simple pleasures of rural life.
4. Tra Que Village
Just 3 kilometers from Vietnam’s historic town of Hoi An, Tra Que Village has a rich history dating back to the 16th century and is bordered by the Co Co River and Tra Que Lagoon. This river island, with its advantageous proximity to the sea, benefits from a temperate climate and fertile soil, making it ideal for organic vegetable farming.
Years ago, the distribution of vegetable gardens was haphazard, and the land was uneven due to pond excavations for irrigation. However, the government initiated an ecotourism model over two decades ago, which involved repurposing residential areas, leveling the land for vegetable cultivation, and building flat access roads to improve visitability.
TRAVEL AND TOUR WORLD | VN EXPRESS
Editor’s Choice: 8 Best Cities to Visit in Indonesia, Gorgeous Alternatives to Bali
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What are the cultural experiences available for visitors in Hailand?
Hailand, has distinguished itself as an exemplary tourism destination by embracing its cultural traditions. This quaint village, situated just a short drive from Nan City, offers visitors a chance to engage in pottery and weaving, allowing them to create their own authentic Thai crafts. The community fosters a strong connection to its roots, providing an immersive experience that showcases the simplicity and charm of rural life.
4. Tra Que Village
Tra Que Village, near the historic town of Hoi An in Vietnam, has evolved remarkably since its inception as a sprawling vegetable garden in the 16th century. Thanks to dedicated efforts in promoting ecotourism, the village is now characterized by uniform rows of vibrant gardens and scenic paths that are a delight for visitors seeking picturesque backdrops for their holiday snaps. Tra Que is celebrated not only for its beauty but also for its commitment to sustainable agricultural practices and community well-being.
These four villages have mastered the art of blending culture, sustainability, and tourism, setting a benchmark for global destinations. As travelers increasingly seek meaningful experiences that allow them to connect with local traditions, these award-winning villages are shining examples of how tourism can empower communities and protect our planet.
In Conclusion
The UNWTO’s recognition of these villages is a reminder of the profound impact that responsible tourism can have on local communities and ecosystems. By visiting these extraordinary places, travelers not only enjoy unique cultural experiences but also contribute to the preservation of heritage and natural environments. So, if you’re dreaming of your next getaway, consider exploring one of these Best Tourism Villages of 2024—where every trip is a step towards a sustainable future!
For more updates and insights into sustainable travel and tourism efforts, check out Tempo News.
