TEHRAN – Following months of work, seven villages, situated in the lesser-known Ilam province, western Iran, have been modified for rural tourism.

“A selection of seven villages have recently been equipped for tourism based on criteria defined by the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts,” the provincial tourism chief said.

“In addition to being agriculturally important, the target villages of Ilam province are always frequented by tourists due to their proximity to natural and historical attractions,” Farzad Sharifi said.

The official said 13 villages have been equipped for tourism over the past two years, saying we are intended to draw the attention of more travelers, generate jobs, and help empower local economies.

In recent years, rural tourism has gained significant popularity, which requires meticulous plans to preserve and develop rural destinations, the official explained.

In terms of livelihood, agriculture, animal breeding, and handicrafts constitute the lion’s share of income in Ilam villages, which can also be enriched through tourism revenues, Sharifi noted.

Rural tourism as well as agritourism and farm stays can be regarded as a win-win both for local communities and post-modern travelers who are tracking unique experiences. Sightseers may stay with a rural or nomadic family for a while or enjoy an independent stay and assist them with day-to-day life. It also opens up an opportunity to feel rustic routines, agriculture, traditions, arts, and culture.

That tourism branch, most of all, sets the ground for economic development in rural areas by creating additional income and employment. It can also improve the social well-being in rural areas, for instance by stimulating improvements in infrastructure, sanitation, and electricity networks.

As mentioned by The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), rural tourism is a type of activity in which a visitor’s experience is related to a wide range of products generally linked to nature-based activities, agriculture, rural lifestyle, culture, angling, and sightseeing. Such tourism also possesses characteristics such as low population density, a landscape dominated by agriculture and forestry, as well as traditional social structure and lifestyle.

The UN body aims to turn the spotlight on the “uniqueness” of each village to make tourism a means for further development in rural areas. “We want to recognize the uniqueness of each village and showcase the best initiatives to make tourism a means for a better future in rural areas. As we restart tourism, we work to ensure that we leave no one - and no village- behind,” according to UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili.

AFM