Rural Tourism: Women's Economic Empowerment in Rural Tourism

In celebration of Women’s History Month, the United Nations Tourism Department spotlights the remarkable contributions of women-led enterprises in fostering economic growth and social progress within rural communities worldwide. Through initiatives such as the Best Tourism Villages, the UN Tourism Department aims to promote sustainable and inclusive tourism while recognizing the pivotal role of women entrepreneurs in driving transformative change.

Lamas, Peru: Preserving Cultural Legacy

Nestled in the verdant mountains of Peru, Lamas stands as a bastion of cultural heritage, where Lamista women spearhead the preservation of traditional crafts through the “Awadora” collective brand. Representing 46 indigenous artisans from five Quechua communities, this initiative empowers women economically while enriching community-driven tourism.

Lephis, Ethiopia: Harnessing Local Resources

In Lephis, the Mishike Handicraft Association empowers underrepresented women by utilizing abundant local resources like grass and bamboo in handicraft production. Through sustainable tourism practices and eco-conscious products, the association not only supports women in the local economy but also preserves the village’s rich biodiversity.

Creel, Mexico: Celebrating Biocultural Diversity

Committed to preserving biocultural diversity, Creel’s Rarámuri communities promote job creation and women’s empowerment in the tourism sector through immersive gastronomy and weaving experiences. These activities not only showcase the village’s cultural heritage but also drive economic development and diversification.

Dongbaek, Republic of Korea: Cultivating Camellia Tourism

Renowned for its camellia flower cultivation, Dongbaek is a model of resident-led tourism, with female leadership driving initiatives like the Dongbaek Village Mill. Through camellia product production and immersive cooking classes, women entrepreneurs bolster the local economy while preserving and promoting local food culture.

Xidi, China: Advancing Heritage Protection

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Xidi promotes sustainable social development through initiatives like the Anhui Girls’ Agritainment. This initiative not only provides employment opportunities for women but also offers immersive homestay experiences for visitors, contributing to heritage protection and youth participation in the local tourism economy.

Oku-Matsushima, Japan: Entrepreneurship Empowerment

In Oku-Matsushima, the Nadeshiko Kaisei Juku initiative empowers women in tourism through entrepreneurship seminars. By transforming local markets into flourishing enterprises, village women drive economic revitalization while enhancing overall resilience and social progress.

Through these diverse initiatives, women entrepreneurs are not just driving rural tourism but also shaping more inclusive and sustainable communities worldwide. Their indomitable spirit and dedication underscore their crucial role in advancing economic growth and social progress on a global scale.

Re-reported from the article originally published in The traveldailymedia