The Ministry of Economy, Entrepreneurship, and Tourism (MEAT) is launching the national selection for localities aspiring to the title of Best Tourism Villages! This initiative precedes the fourth edition of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) international competition, which annually identifies outstanding examples of rural tourism destinations.
Following the submission and evaluation of applications, Romania will submit a maximum of 8 tourism destination proposals to the UNWTO, which will compete with other destinations from around the world. The candidate locality must have a low population density and a maximum of 15,000 inhabitants, according to the latest census, be located in a landscape with a significant presence of traditional activities, and share the values and lifestyle of the community.
In the evaluation process, the following selection criteria will be scored:
- cultural and natural resources;
- promotion and conservation of cultural resources;
- economic sustainability;
- social and environmental sustainability;
- tourism development and value chain integration;
- governance and prioritization of tourism;
- infrastructure and connectivity;
- health;
- safety and security;
- presentation materials.
Destinations from Romania participating in the global competition will have the chance to be designated Best Tourism Villages or be included in the Upgrade Program, through which they will benefit from support from the UNWTO and partners to improve areas of activity identified as less developed following the evaluation.
Destinations recognized as Best Tourism Villages, as well as those selected to participate in the Upgrade Program, will become members of a network that facilitates the exchange of information, experiences, and best practices. The network also includes experts, public and private partners in the field of tourism promotion for rural development.
To participate in the competition, applications must be sent to the Ministry of Economy, Entrepreneurship, and Tourism via email to iulia.dangulea@mturism.ro by March 22, 2023.
The application document is the Application Form and can be accessed at this LINK.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main eligibility requirements for a village to apply?
Localities must have a maximum of 15,000 inhabitants, a low population density, and a landscape characterized by traditional activities and community values.
How many destinations can represent Romania in the international phase?
Romania can submit a maximum of 8 destination proposals to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) following the national evaluation.
What is the benefit of the UNWTO Upgrade Program?
Destinations in the Upgrade Program receive specialized support from UNWTO and its partners to improve specific areas identified as underdeveloped during the assessment.