One of the most significant events in the field of tourism, the “Destination of the Year 2024” Gala, took place at the Romanian Athenaeum in Bucharest.
This year, for the first time, representatives from the Republic of Moldova had the opportunity to participate and compete in the contest alongside destinations from Romania.
Following the second stage of judging, the village of Văleni, Cahul District, was named the grand winner of the special distinction “Destination of the Year in the Republic of Moldova,” while Lunca Prutului de Jos was awarded 2nd place in the “Best Promotion” category.
Additionally, the “Visionary Destinations” International Conference was organized, dedicated to destination marketing. During the conference, representatives from the Ministry of Culture and the National Tourism Office of the Republic discussed the mission, structure, and financing of the IP ONT, which serves as a marketing and promotion tool for the country.
In 2023, Văleni village received the “Best Tourism Villages” title, the most prestigious global award for rural tourism, within the international competition organized by UN Tourism. Văleni possesses exceptional cultural heritage and natural resources, preserving and promoting rural and community values, products, and lifestyle, with clear commitments to sustainability and innovation in all its aspects. It also features a network of tourist guesthouses and rural homes, being the only locality in the Republic of Moldova with a bread museum.
Lunca Prutului de Jos also holds enormous tourism potential, being the first destination in the Republic of Moldova where a Local Destination Management Organization is being piloted. The area boasts a very good network of rural accommodation units, wineries, craft and gastronomic workshops, etc. However, the most important tourist attraction remains the “Prutul de Jos” Biosphere Reserve, a natural area with rare plant and animal species.
Both destinations are part of the Cahul District, a region where tourism is a priority, developed with the support of authorities and development partners, contributing to the improvement of infrastructure, businesses, and online tourism promotion platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Moldovan destination won the top prize at the Gala?
The village of Văleni, located in the Cahul District, was named the “Destination of the Year in the Republic of Moldova.”
What international recognition does Văleni village hold?
In 2023, Văleni was awarded the “Best Tourism Villages” title by UN Tourism, the highest global distinction for rural tourism.
What makes Lunca Prutului de Jos a significant tourist site?
It is home to the “Prutul de Jos” Biosphere Reserve, hosts a network of wineries and craft workshops, and is the first location in Moldova to pilot a Local Destination Management Organization.