Illustrative image (Photo: thaihai.vn) Thai Hai village is located in the north of Thai Nguyen province and is theonly Southeast Asian representative to make the global list, reported Radio TheVoice of Vietnam (VOV).
Situated just an hour drive from Hanoi, the site covers an area of 70 hectaresand is home to a total of 30 traditional stilt houses belonging to the Tayethnic minority people.
The village is capable of accommodating roughly 500 guests, thereby allowing touriststo participate in eco-tourism activities whilst exploring the traditionalculture and lifestyle of the local Tay people.
Visitors to the area can experience daily living alongside villagers, takingpart in activities such as growing and collecting vegetables, as well as goingfishing and having fun by playing traditional games.
In 2022, a total of 136 villages of 57 UNWTO member countries were nominatedfor the title. Of the total, 32 villages from 18 countries globally wereawarded the title, with some of the villages featured including Dazhai ofChina, Pyeongsa-ri of the Republic of Korea, Lamas of Peru, and Sauris-Zahre ofItaly.
According to the UNWTO, the award recognises rural destinations that embracetourism as a driver for the cause of development and new opportunities for jobsand income, while simultaneously preserving and promoting community-basedvalues and products.
The award also acknowledges villages for their commitment to innovation andsustainability across all spheres, including economics, social affairs, and theenvironment, with a specific focus on developing tourism in line with theSustainable Development Goals (SDGs)./.
VNA
