Fifty Two Villages Worldwide Recognised by UN as Best Tourism Villages for 2025

The United Nations has announced its list of 52 villages from around the world that have been recognized as the Best Tourism Villages for 2025. This prestigious designation is part of the UN’s ongoing efforts to support rural tourism and promote sustainable, community-driven travel. The recognition highlights the villages’ ability to integrate cultural heritage, environmental sustainability, and tourism development into a cohesive and authentic experience for visitors.

What Is the Best Tourism Villages Initiative?

The Best Tourism Villages initiative was launched by the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in 2021, aimed at promoting rural destinations that have embraced tourism as a tool for sustainable development. The program is designed to celebrate villages that are not only tourism-ready but are also committed to preserving local traditions, creating economic opportunities for residents, and protecting the environment.

The selected villages are assessed based on several criteria, including:

• Cultural and Natural Resources: The preservation and promotion of local customs, heritage, and landscapes.
• Economic Sustainability: How tourism contributes to the local economy and creates sustainable livelihoods.
• Social Sustainability: Ensuring community involvement in tourism planning and decision-making.
• Environmental Sustainability: Commitment to eco-friendly practices, conservation, and sustainable resource management.
• Tourism Development: Infrastructure, accessibility, and tourism services that benefit both residents and visitors.
• Health, Safety, and Security: Measures to ensure the well-being of visitors and locals alike.

Highlights of the 2025 Best Tourism Villages

The 2025 list features a diverse selection of villages from across the globe, each representing unique cultures, landscapes, and approaches to tourism. Here are a few notable destinations from the list:

• Arqua Petrarca, Italy:
  Located in the Veneto region, Arqua Petrarca is known for its medieval architecture and rich literary heritage. The village is a haven for history lovers, with cobblestone streets, ancient churches, and the home of the famous poet Petrarch.
• Shodoshima, Japan:
  Famous for its olive trees and olive oil production, Shodoshima is situated in the Seto Inland Sea. Visitors can explore scenic landscapes, take part in olive harvesting, and learn about sustainable agricultural practices in this picturesque village.
• AlUla, Saudi Arabia:
  Home to ancient rock tombs and stunning desert landscapes, AlUla is a gateway to Saudi Arabia’s rich history. The village is part of a broader initiative to promote heritage tourism, with a focus on preserving the archaeological sites of the region.
• Gimmelwald, Switzerland:
  A car-free alpine village nestled in the Swiss Alps, Gimmelwald is known for its breathtaking mountain views, hiking trails, and a deep commitment to sustainable tourism. The village offers a peaceful escape into nature, with an emphasis on eco-friendly accommodations and local food production.
• Machu Picchu Pueblo, Peru:
  This village serves as the main access point for travelers heading to the iconic Machu Picchu. Located in the Andes, the village focuses on providing sustainable tourism experiences that benefit local communities, promoting eco-friendly lodging, and preserving the cultural heritage of the area.

These villages have demonstrated their dedication to sustainable practices, community involvement, and the preservation of their unique cultural identities, making them prime examples of responsible tourism in action.

The Importance of Recognizing Rural Destinations

Rural destinations often offer travelers a chance to experience authenticity, culture, and natural beauty in ways that larger cities cannot replicate. However, these areas frequently face challenges, such as underdeveloped infrastructure, limited economic opportunities, and the risk of cultural erosion due to globalization.

The UN’s Best Tourism Villages initiative helps address these challenges by:

• Promoting Sustainability: Encouraging tourism practices that respect local cultures and environments while generating economic benefits for residents.
• Supporting Local Economies: Tourism provides rural communities with opportunities to earn income, develop businesses, and improve local infrastructure.
• Preserving Cultural Heritage: By showcasing their unique traditions, customs, and landscapes, these villages help protect cultural legacies that might otherwise be lost.
• Fostering Awareness and Education: Recognizing these villages raises global awareness about the importance of responsible tourism and the need to protect rural areas from the pressures of mass tourism.

How Travelers Can Get Involved

For travelers looking to explore these unique and sustainable destinations, visiting one of the UN’s Best Tourism Villages offers an opportunity to experience authentic, community-driven tourism. Here’s how you can make a positive impact:

• Support Local Businesses: Stay in locally-owned accommodations, eat at community-run restaurants, and buy handicrafts made by local artisans to ensure that your visit benefits the village.
• Respect Cultural Traditions: Engage with the community in a respectful and meaningful way. Learn about local customs, and participate in traditional activities without disrupting the way of life.
• Promote Sustainability: Choose eco-friendly tours and activities that focus on conservation and minimize environmental impact. Support villages that prioritize environmental protection and green tourism.
• Share Your Experience: Spread the word about these hidden gems and encourage others to visit rural destinations that prioritize sustainability and community development.

Looking to the Future

The recognition of these 52 villages is just the beginning. The UN’s Best Tourism Villages initiative will continue to highlight destinations that offer sustainable and meaningful tourism experiences. As global interest in rural tourism grows, more villages will have the opportunity to showcase their cultural heritage, promote eco-friendly travel, and inspire a new generation of responsible travelers.

By supporting these villages, travelers contribute to preserving the world’s rich cultural diversity while helping to ensure that tourism benefits the local economy, environment, and community for years to come.

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Debate on Ski Training Course Safety Erupts as Olympic Ski Season Opens

As the Olympic ski season begins, concerns over the safety of training courses have taken center stage, following a series of tragic incidents and the deaths of several skiers during preseason training. The issue has gained heightened attention just five months before the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, with athletes, coaches, and officials calling for better safety measures.

The debate about dangerous ski training courses has been rekindled after the tragic death of Matteo Franzoso, a 25-year-old Italian skier, during preseason training in Chile. Franzoso crashed through two layers of safety fencing and collided with a wooden fence positioned just outside the course, sustaining fatal cranial trauma. This incident, along with several others, has raised alarms within the skiing community, highlighting the risks associated with training conditions that often do not meet the same safety standards as race-day courses.

Tragic Incident Highlights Ski Training Risks

Franzoso’s tragic death was not an isolated incident. His passing marked the third skier death in less than a year, following similar fatalities among young Italian skiers. The Alpine skiing community has been grappling with questions surrounding the risks of training courses, which are often set up in temporary locations and lack the stringent safety measures used during actual World Cup races.

Mikaela Shiffrin, the American ski champion, has been vocal about the dangers of training courses. Shiffrin, who suffered significant injuries in a crash during a World Cup giant slalom race, expressed heightened awareness of the risks during her return to training. “We are often training in conditions where the variables are just too many to control, and you have to decide sometimes: Is this unreasonably dangerous, or is this within a reasonable level of danger?” she said.

Shiffrin’s injuries left her with a punctured abdomen and severe muscle damage, forcing her to reassess the inherent dangers of skiing at the highest level. Despite the risks, Shiffrin emphasized the importance of training, even in challenging and potentially unsafe conditions, to ensure peak performance on race day.

Safety Concerns and Financial Constraints

The central issue lies in the safety standards of training courses compared to race courses. While World Cup and Olympic events are carefully managed with safety netting, medical staff, and proper course maintenance, training courses often lack the same levels of oversight. These courses are generally set up with smaller crews, limited medical staff, and less protective infrastructure. In some cases, fewer safety nets are installed, and courses may not be as well-maintained as those used during official races.

This disparity has led many in the skiing world to voice concerns, particularly after the death of Franzoso. Sofia Goggia, the Italian Olympic downhill champion, pointed out that the financial constraints of maintaining fully safe training courses, especially in remote locations, have contributed to the risks skiers face. “At a high level, it’s like F1 or MotoGP in downhill, super-G, but also giant slalom; the risk is there every time,” she noted, acknowledging that the nature of the sport always involves risk.

Calls for Improved Safety Measures

In the wake of Franzoso’s death, the International Ski Federation (FIS) and national skiing federations have come under increasing pressure to improve the safety protocols surrounding ski training. The Italian Winter Sports Federation has called for the establishment of dedicated training courses, especially in regions like Chile, Argentina, and New Zealand, which host preseason training camps for skiers. These courses, they suggest, should have the same safety netting and standards used during official competitions.

Johan Eliasch, the President of FIS, acknowledged the importance of improving safety across the board. “We need to make sure that when you have training runs in speed, the safety standards are exactly the same as on the big race day,” Eliasch said. His comments indicate that there is a growing push within the governing body to make safety a priority, even outside of race day.

The Financial Challenge of Improving Training Courses

While calls for improved safety are growing, some are concerned about the financial feasibility of implementing these changes. Skiing is an expensive sport, and adding extra safety measures—like installing additional nets, maintaining pristine snow conditions, and increasing the number of medical staff—requires significant investment. Smaller teams and less wealthy federations may struggle to meet these financial demands.

Roland Assinger, the coach of the Austria women’s ski team, emphasized that safety netting in places like Copper Mountain, Colorado, is unparalleled. However, such levels of safety infrastructure are not always achievable in countries with fewer resources. Assinger and other coaches are calling for a more unified approach to ensuring safer training environments across the board, but the financial and logistical hurdles remain significant.

The Road Ahead: A Shared Responsibility

The debate over ski training safety is far from over, with coaches, athletes, and federations continuing to push for change. At the heart of the conversation is the balance between the inherent dangers of the sport and the responsibility of those who create the conditions in which athletes train and race.

The tragic death of Franzoso has shaken the skiing world, but it also offers an opportunity for change. Improved safety measures in training environments are necessary to ensure that athletes can train at the highest levels without putting their lives at undue risk. For now, the call for more protective measures, better financial support, and a collective approach to safety remains at the forefront of the Alpine skiing community’s agenda.

Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment for Skiing Safety

As the Olympic ski season kicks off, the conversation around safety continues to evolve. Athletes like Mikaela Shiffrin and Sofia Goggia are pushing for greater awareness of the risks, while national federations and the International Ski Federation (FIS) work to implement lasting safety reforms. The tragic events of the past year have made it clear that the sport needs to adapt, with increased safety standards that reflect the growing demands and dangers of modern skiing.

In the end, skiing’s risks cannot be eliminated, but by prioritizing safety, athletes can focus on achieving excellence in a sport they love—without compromising their well-being.

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UN Tourism Regional Workshop on Measuring Sustainability in Asia-Pacific – November 2025

Tourism is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the global economy. While it brings significant economic benefits, it also poses challenges related to environmental conservation, social well-being, and economic equity. To ensure that tourism contributes to sustainable development, robust frameworks for measurement and policy are crucial. The UN Tourism Regional Workshop on Measuring the Sustainability of Tourism in Asia and the Pacific, scheduled for November 18-20, 2025, in Brunei Darussalam, is a critical step in advancing these efforts.

The workshop, organized by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), will focus on introducing and implementing the Statistical Framework for Measuring the Sustainability of Tourism (SF-MST). The event aims to bring together tourism professionals, policymakers, statisticians, and other stakeholders to discuss the sustainable development of tourism in the region. With its emphasis on environmental, social, and economic sustainability, the workshop is set to catalyze a regional effort to make tourism more responsible and inclusive.

What is the SF-MST?

The Statistical Framework for Measuring the Sustainability of Tourism (SF-MST) is a comprehensive tool designed to help governments, businesses, and organizations track the sustainability of tourism practices. It provides a standardized approach to measuring the economic, social, and environmental dimensions of tourism and helps policymakers make data-driven decisions to promote long-term sustainable practices in the sector.

The SF-MST framework provides key indicators and methodologies for assessing various sustainability factors, including the carbon footprint of tourism activities, community engagement, economic contribution, and the preservation of natural and cultural heritage. By applying these indicators, countries can gain valuable insights into their tourism industry’s impact and make informed decisions that benefit both the sector and the broader society.

Why is this Workshop Important?

The Asia-Pacific region is one of the most dynamic and diverse in the world when it comes to tourism. Countries such as Thailand, Japan, India, and Indonesia are not only top global destinations but also regions with unique environmental and cultural assets. However, as the tourism sector continues to grow, these areas face growing pressures to balance tourism with sustainability. This is especially important in a region where tourism’s rapid expansion can sometimes lead to over-tourism, environmental degradation, and socio-economic inequality.

The UN Tourism Regional Workshop provides a platform for stakeholders across the region to discuss these challenges and explore solutions. One of the main goals of the event is to introduce the SF-MST framework to Asia-Pacific nations, enabling them to better measure and manage the sustainability of their tourism industries. The workshop will also promote greater regional cooperation, where countries can learn from each other’s successes and challenges in integrating sustainability into tourism development.

Key Workshop Themes

The workshop will address several important themes within the scope of sustainable tourism:

Environmental Sustainability: Understanding the environmental impact of tourism and adopting practices to reduce its ecological footprint is paramount. Discussions will focus on the role of renewable energy, waste management, conservation of biodiversity, and carbon emissions.

Social Sustainability: Tourism’s impact on local communities will be a focal point of the workshop. Topics like fair employment practices, equitable benefits distribution, cultural preservation, and community empowerment will be explored.

Economic Sustainability: The economic side of tourism sustainability focuses on creating a balanced, resilient economy. This includes supporting local businesses, creating job opportunities, and fostering inclusive growth that benefits all segments of society.

Data and Indicators: Accurate data is vital for measuring tourism sustainability. The workshop will delve into key metrics for assessing the sector’s environmental, social, and economic impacts, helping countries track progress and adjust policies as needed.

Policy and Governance: Effective governance is crucial in promoting sustainable tourism practices. The event will also include sessions on policy-making, international collaboration, and how countries can implement best practices at the national level.

The Role of Brunei Darussalam

Brunei Darussalam’s choice as the host country for this significant event underscores its commitment to sustainable tourism development. The country has made great strides in prioritizing environmental protection and promoting responsible tourism. As the host nation, Brunei will showcase its own efforts and serve as a model for other nations in the region to follow.

With its focus on sustainable development, Brunei is the perfect setting for such a workshop. The country’s pristine natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and commitment to conservation make it an excellent example of what responsible tourism looks like in practice.

The Path Forward

The UN Tourism Regional Workshop on Measuring the Sustainability of Tourism is not just a one-off event; it is part of a broader initiative to reshape the tourism industry into one that is sustainable, equitable, and resilient. By fostering collaboration between governments, the private sector, and civil society, the workshop is an essential step in creating a future where tourism continues to benefit economies while protecting the planet and empowering local communities.

The discussions, insights, and strategies shared at this event will play a pivotal role in driving positive change across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. As tourism continues to evolve, events like this workshop will be instrumental in shaping a sustainable future for the industry.

Conclusion

As the tourism industry faces both unprecedented growth and increasing calls for sustainability, the UN Tourism Regional Workshop offers an invaluable opportunity for nations in Asia and the Pacific to come together and chart a sustainable course for the future. Through collaboration, shared knowledge, and the use of frameworks like SF-MST, we can ensure that tourism remains a force for good—supporting economies, preserving cultures, and protecting the environment.

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Alaska Airlines Launches New Nonstop Routes in California and Pacific Northwest

Alaska Airlines is enhancing its offerings by launching several new nonstop routes that will connect key cities between California and the Pacific Northwest. This new service will significantly improve travel options for passengers, providing more direct connections between major hubs in these regions. The expansion comes as part of the airline’s ongoing efforts to increase service capacity and cater to the rising demand for domestic travel.

Key New Routes and Increased Frequencies

As part of the new initiative, Alaska Airlines has announced nonstop flights between California’s major cities and the Pacific Northwest. Notably, the airline will connect San Diego to Dallas-Fort Worth, with several additional nonstop routes between cities in California and Washington, Oregon, and other parts of the Pacific Northwest.

The new flights are designed to reduce travel time, offering a more seamless and direct route for travelers. These additions will allow Alaska Airlines to provide better access to key business and leisure destinations, making it easier for people to travel for work, family visits, or vacation. The expanded network will allow passengers to skip the usual layovers and connecting flights, making travel both more efficient and enjoyable.

The new nonstop services are expected to draw more travelers looking for convenient, direct options when flying between California and the Pacific Northwest. This includes connections from San Francisco, Los Angeles, Seattle, and other cities within the region, catering to both the business community and tourists looking to explore these vibrant areas.

Meeting the Growing Demand for Domestic Travel

Alaska Airlines’ expansion comes as demand for domestic travel continues to rise in the post-pandemic era. Travelers are increasingly seeking convenient flight options, and with more people looking to travel to and from California and the Pacific Northwest, Alaska Airlines aims to meet this demand by providing more nonstop routes.

The Pacific Northwest and California are two of the U.S.’s busiest travel regions. Whether it’s for business meetings in Seattle or a beach holiday in Southern California, travelers often face time-consuming connections through major hubs like Denver or Chicago. Alaska Airlines’ decision to streamline these routes with more direct services offers both convenience and time savings.

This expansion is not just about offering more flights; it’s about making travel easier, more affordable, and more accessible for passengers in these regions. The new routes also come at a time when air travel has become more focused on speed and efficiency, as many travelers look for ways to get to their destinations as quickly as possible.

Alaska Airlines’ Commitment to Growth

The announcement of new nonstop flights comes as part of Alaska Airlines’ broader growth strategy. The airline has consistently expanded its reach across the U.S., increasing its presence in key cities on the West Coast and beyond. Alaska’s reputation for reliability and service excellence, combined with its growing network, has made it a go-to choice for many domestic travelers.

The airline has also made significant investments in its fleet, ensuring that its new and existing aircraft provide the highest levels of comfort and safety. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, Alaska Airlines aims to provide a superior in-flight experience. Passengers will continue to enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages, Wi-Fi, and entertainment options, all while traveling in a spacious and comfortable environment.

Additionally, the airline continues to focus on sustainability, with efforts to reduce its environmental impact. Alaska Airlines is working towards more fuel-efficient planes and carbon-offset programs, making it an increasingly attractive option for eco-conscious travelers.

Booking and Availability

The new routes are available for booking starting today, and travelers can book through the Alaska Airlines website or its mobile app. As always, travelers are encouraged to book early to secure the best fares and preferred travel times. Given the demand for these popular routes, seats are expected to fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons.

More Travel Options for California and Pacific Northwest Residents

California and the Pacific Northwest are both culturally rich regions, and these new routes will allow residents of these areas to connect easily for both leisure and business. Whether you’re based in California and looking to visit family in Washington or you’re a Seattle resident heading to Southern California for a vacation, these nonstop flights will offer greater flexibility and reduce travel time.

The new flights are also expected to boost tourism to the Pacific Northwest. Cities like Portland, Oregon, and Seattle offer unique attractions such as outdoor activities in the Pacific wilderness, as well as world-class food and music scenes. Similarly, California offers famous attractions, from the beaches of Los Angeles to the mountains of the Sierra Nevada.

Conclusion: Expanding Horizons for Travelers

With the launch of new nonstop routes between California and the Pacific Northwest, Alaska Airlines continues to offer enhanced travel options for its passengers. These new flights will make it easier for travelers to visit major cities and scenic destinations, saving time and improving the overall travel experience.

As the demand for more direct and convenient travel grows, Alaska Airlines is positioning itself as a leader in the domestic airline market. This expansion reflects the company’s commitment to providing quality service, improving efficiency, and meeting the needs of travelers in these bustling regions. Whether you’re flying for business or leisure, the new routes will allow you to enjoy a seamless journey across some of the U.S.’s most popular destinations.

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Explore the World’s Most Stunning Fall Foliage Destinations

Autumn’s vibrant hues are not confined to the United States. Across the globe, countries showcase their own breathtaking fall landscapes, offering travelers unique experiences to witness nature’s colorful transformation. From Japan’s fiery maples to Canada’s golden aspens, here are some of the world’s top destinations for autumn foliage.

Japan: The Art of Koyo

In Japan, autumn is celebrated through “koyo,” the tradition of viewing autumn leaves. From late October to early December, the country’s landscapes are painted in shades of red, orange, and gold. Kyoto’s ancient temples, such as Tofuku-ji and Kiyomizu-dera, provide serene backdrops to the fiery foliage. The Philosopher’s Path offers a picturesque walk lined with vibrant leaves, while the Irohazaka Winding Road in Nikko presents a dramatic display of colors.

Canada: A Tapestry of Colors

Canada’s vast forests transform into a kaleidoscope of colors each fall. In Quebec, the Laurentian Mountains and Gatineau Park are renowned for their vibrant reds and oranges. Ontario’s Algonquin Provincial Park offers a stunning array of yellows, reds, and purples. The Maritimes, particularly Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, boast brilliant fall foliage, with the Cabot Trail providing panoramic views of the colorful landscape.

South Korea: Autumn’s Golden Touch

South Korea’s autumn season, from mid-October to early November, is marked by golden ginkgo trees and fiery maples. Seoraksan National Park is a popular destination, offering hiking trails surrounded by vibrant foliage. Naejangsan National Park is famed for its brilliant red leaves, while the streets of Seoul, particularly around Gyeongbokgung Palace, are lined with golden ginkgo trees, creating a picturesque urban autumn scene.

China: A Palette of Autumn Colors

China offers diverse landscapes to experience fall’s beauty. In Beijing, Xiangshan Park (Fragrant Hill) is a hotspot for red maple leaves, attracting photographers and nature enthusiasts. The Jiuzhaigou Valley in Sichuan Province is known for its multi-colored lakes and surrounding forests, creating a fairy-tale autumn setting. Guangwu Mountain in Sichuan is dubbed “China’s No. 1 mountain with colorful leaves,” offering a stunning display of crimson foliage.

India: Kashmir’s Autumn Splendor

India’s Kashmir Valley is renowned for its autumn beauty. In October, the chinar trees turn vibrant red, creating a picturesque landscape. The Mughal Gardens, such as Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, are surrounded by colorful foliage, offering serene settings for visitors. The Dal Lake, with its houseboats and surrounding autumn colors, provides a unique experience for travelers.

Europe: Hidden Gems for Fall Foliage

While not as widely recognised for autumn colors, several European destinations offer stunning fall landscapes. In Germany, the Black Forest is adorned with golden and red leaves, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere. The Loire Valley in France showcases vineyards with changing colors, offering scenic drives and wine tasting opportunities. In Italy, the Dolomites provide dramatic mountain backdrops to vibrant autumn forests, making it a perfect destination for hiking and photography.

United Kingdom: Autumn in the Countryside

The UK offers charming autumn landscapes, especially in its countryside. The Lake District in England is known for its rolling hills and tranquil lakes surrounded by colorful foliage. Scotland’s Highlands provide dramatic mountain scenery with forests turning golden and red. Wales’ Brecon Beacons National Park offers a mix of woodlands and open moorlands, showcasing a variety of autumn colors.

New Zealand: Spring’s Counterpart

In the Southern Hemisphere, New Zealand’s autumn occurs from March to May. The South Island, particularly around Queenstown and Wanaka, offers stunning displays of red and gold leaves against mountainous backdrops. The Otago Central Rail Trail provides a scenic route through changing landscapes, perfect for cycling enthusiasts.

Tips for Planning Your Autumn Foliage Trip

• Timing is Key: Research the peak foliage times for your chosen destination, as they can vary based on climate and geography.
• Pack Accordingly: Autumn weather can be unpredictable. Dress in layers and bring waterproof gear to stay comfortable.
• Respect Nature: Stay on marked trails and avoid disturbing wildlife to preserve the natural beauty of the area.
• Capture the Moment: Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes, but also take time to simply enjoy the view without distractions.

Conclusion

Autumn offers a unique opportunity to witness nature’s vibrant transformation. While the United States is renowned for its fall foliage, destinations worldwide provide equally stunning displays. Whether you’re hiking through Japan’s ancient temples, cruising along Canada’s scenic routes, or exploring China’s colorful valleys, the world offers a rich tapestry of autumn beauty waiting to be discovered. So, pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey to experience the colors of the world this fall.

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