Two Ukrainian villages—Kolochava and Synevyr Poliana—were included in the list of the World's best tourist villages.

In the Chinese city of Hangzhou, during the award ceremony of one of the world's most prestigious UN Tourism initiatives, the "Best Tourism Villages", two settlements from Ukraine were recognized: Kolochava and Synevyr Poliana, both located near the picturesque Synevyr Lake in Zakarpattia.

"The fact that two Ukrainian villages—Kolochava and Synevyr Poliana—were included in the list of the world's best tourist villages is proof that even in times of war, Ukraine remains open, hospitable, and inspiring. This recognition is the result of the joint work of local communities, businesses, and those who develop tourism as a path to resilience and the revival of Ukrainian villages," commented Natalia Tabaka, Head of the State Agency for Tourism Development (DART), on the news.

Until May 19th of this year, communities from five world regions submitted applications for the "Best Tourism Villages" title. In addition to the two villages in the Zakarpattia region, the legendary Hutsul village of Kryvorivnia in the Ivano-Frankivsk region was also selected for the final of this year's competition from Ukraine.

The Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism initiative was launched in 2021 with the goal of supporting rural communities that use tourism as a tool for sustainable development, cultural heritage preservation, and improving the quality of life for local residents. In four years, it has gained global recognition: UN Tourism has received over 800 applications from 100 countries. The Best Tourism Villages network currently unites over 250 villages from nearly 60 countries, including those participating in the special Upgrade Programme.

Applications are evaluated by the international UN Tourism Advisory Board based on nine criteria covering all aspects of sustainable development:

• Cultural and natural resources;
• Preservation and promotion of cultural heritage;
• Economic sustainability;
• Social sustainability;
• Environmental sustainability;
• Tourism development and integration into local value chains;
• Effective governance and prioritization of tourism;
• Infrastructure and connectivity;
• Health, safety, and security.

"The Best Tourism Villages Programme celebrates rural destinations where tourism serves as a catalyst for opportunities, cultural preservation, and sustainable development. By leveraging their unique resources, these villages create conditions for economic growth, protection of traditions, and improved quality of life for their communities," stated Zurab Pololikashvili, UN Tourism Secretary-General.