Hanoi (VNA) - Vietnam's tourism sector is on the cusp of a remarkable opportunity to showcase its rich cultural heritage and unique rural landscapes to the global community.

The First UN Tourism Conference on Tourism for Rural Development and the Second Annual Meeting of the Best Tourism Villages by the UN Tourism Network is set to take place from December 9-11 in Hoi An, the central province of Quang Nam. The event promises to bring international attention to the country’s rural tourism potential.

These high-profile events, organized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the United Nations World Tourism Org🥃aniz♔ation (UN Tourism), and the People’s Committee of Quang Nam, aim to strengthen the sustainable development of rural tourism worldwide.

This international gathering is not only a platform for sharing best practices and insights on rural tourism but also an opportunity for Vietnam to elevate its rural tourism brand on the world stage, Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism Ho An Phong said.

He called it a "golden opportunity" for the country to highlight its rural tourism assets. “Quang Nam’s selection as the host carries immense importance and is a unique chance to boost awareness of Vietnam's potential in rural tourism development,” he remarked.

Rural tourism in Vietnam is rich in diversity, offering an unparalleled experience of traditional li🧸festyles, agricultural heritage, and ꧙picturesque landscapes, he said.

The UN Tourism conference will bring together over 300 delegates from 50 countries, including tourism officials, experts, and stakeholders from international organizations like the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), World Bank (WB), and the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

Participants will explore policies, challenges, and opportunities related to sustainable rural tourism, with an emphasis on community empowerment and the preservation of cultural and natural resources.

Growing appeal of sustainable rural tourism

As the global tourism industry recovers from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, green and sustainable tourism is becoming increasingly popular. Rural tourism, which allows travelers to experience local agriꦍcultural practices, traditional lifestyles, and ecological landscapes, is a rapidly growing sector. According to experts, Vietnam is well-positioned to become a leader in this niche market due to its abundant natural resources, rich cultural heritage, and diverse rural landscapes.

The Deputy Minister noted that rural areas are home to many of the world’s cultural and natural heritage sites, offering unique landscapes, traditional architecture, and a deep sense of community. By promoting rural tourism, Vietnam aims to not only boost its economy but also to preserve its unique traditions and ecosystems. The focus on sustainable tourism aligns with the UN Tourism’s emphasis on responsible tourism that benefits both visitors and local communities. Vietnam’s participation in the conference marks a significant step in the country’s long-term tourism development strategy. The Vietnam Tourism Development Strategy until 2030 highlights rural tourism as a key component in the country's broader tourism vision, aiming to attract international visitors while promoting sustainability and inclusivity. The UN Tourism Conference is a pivotal moment for Vietnam to assert its position in the global tourism arena and promote its rich and diverse rural assets. As the world continues to seek more authentic, sustainable travel experiences, Vietnam’s rural tourism offerings have never been more relevant. This event not only presents an opportunity to showcase the country’s rural tourism potential but also paves the way for future growth, innovation, and international collaboration in the tourism sector.

UN Tourism has established the Best Tourism Villages, with 354 members from around the world. They include villages that have received the prestigious Best Tourism Village award over the past four years (from 2021 to 2024), as well as others that have been selected for the upgrading initiative. Vietnam now has three villages honoured as Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism, namely Thai Hai village in Thai Nguyen province (recognized in 2022), Tan Hoa village in Quang Binh province (2023), and Tra Que vegetable village in Quang Nam province (2024)./.