The World Tourism Organisation (WTO) has named Kalopanayiotis and Pissouri among the world’s top tourist villages in its annual list, released on Friday.
Launched in 2021, the Best Tourist Villages initiative highlights rural destinations that excel in preserving natural landscapes, cultural diversity, and local traditions, including cuisine. The program aims to promote tourism as a driver of sustainable development in rural areas.
Now in its fourth year, the initiative recognized 55 villages from a pool of 260 candidates across 60 member states for 2024. WTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili emphasized tourism’s role in fostering inclusion and protecting cultural heritage while supporting sustainable economic growth.
“The initiative celebrates the outstanding efforts of these villages to enhance their tourism offerings while preserving their unique identity,” Pololikashvili noted. By showcasing their strengths, the program encourages economic development rooted in local traditions and sustainable practices.
This year, 75 new members joined the Best Tourist Villages Network, bringing the total to 254 globally. China led with seven recognized villages, followed by Peru with five, and Argentina with four.
Source: Cyprus Mail