Bali’s Les Village Among Top 50 Tourism Villages in Indonesia 2024
As the 2024 Indonesian Tourism Village Awards draw near, Bali’s unique villages continue to make headlines, with Les Village emerging as a notable finalist. Administered by the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economies, this prestigious competition aims to highlight the best of Indonesia’s tourism offerings. The announcement of the top fifty tourism villages comes after months of evaluation, and the recognition of Les Village signals a promising future for sustainable and community-centric tourism in the region.
Creating Pathways to Recognition
The annual competition officially commenced in March, and the finalists have now been confirmed. For years, Bali has been celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and pristine natural landscapes. At the forefront has been the award-winning Penglipuran Village in Bangli Regency, recognized as one of the cleanest villages globally. However, this year’s spotlight shines on Les Village, highlighting the growing diversity of Bali’s tourism offerings.
Gede Dody Sukma Oktiva Askara, Head of the Buleleng Regency Tourism Service, expressed his pride in Les Village’s achievement, stating, “This achievement is extraordinary because a total of 6,016 tourist villages throughout Indonesia qualified.” His sentiments echo a broader effort to promote tourism that respects the environment and cultural integrity.
A Visit to Remember
In a show of commitment to the village’s development, Minister Sandiaga Uno plans to visit Les Village in June or July, with visit details yet to be disclosed. Adi Wistara, Head of Les Village, reacted with joy to the news, having applied for the award three times previously. “This is a blessing for us,” he remarked, celebrating their journey from the top 1,000 in 2021 to the top 500 in 2022, and now to the top fifty in 2024.
This year’s awards theme, “Tourism Villages Towards World Class Green Tourism,” resonates deeply with Les Village’s ethos. Wistara emphasized their commitment to maintaining the village’s natural beauty, saying, “The village and traditional governments will fortify our village so that it is not touched by development that destroys nature.”
Balancing Tourism with Conservation
The need for sustainable development in Bali is acute. Rapid tourism growth has raised alarms among local leaders, warning of potential risks to the island’s cultural values and environmental health. A call for updated conservation legislation is gaining momentum, aiming to regulate development to safeguard Bali’s unique heritage for future generations.
Les Village, located on Bali’s northeastern coast, boasts unspoiled vistas and natural attractions. It is just an hour north of Amed, a renowned diving destination, and an hour and fifteen minutes from the bustling Lovina. Among its highlights is the secluded Yeh Mampeh Waterfall, a hidden gem cascading over 40 meters into a pristine natural pool perfect for a refreshing swim.
Exploring Les Village’s Treasures
Visitors to Les Village can also enjoy the tranquil Bembeng Beach, a pebble-strewn paradise lined with palm trees, known for mesmerizing sunsets and serene waters. It provides an idyllic setting for relaxation, with minimal crowds to interrupt the experience.
For those looking to extend their stay, the Alam Anda Ocean Front Resort and Spa offers an attractive retreat with oceanfront villas priced often below $50 a night. This 4-star haven serves as an ideal base for exploring the natural wonders of the area.
Towards a Greener Future
The recognition of Les Village stands as a testament to the community’s efforts to promote environmentally sustainable tourism while preserving their cultural heritage. It exemplifies a shift toward recognizing the significance of responsible tourism in maintaining the delicate balance between development and conservation.
As discussions surrounding the future of tourism continue, how do you envision the evolution of Bali’s villages? Share your thoughts and engage with us in the comments below. Your insights could contribute to shaping the future of tourism in this beautiful island!
For more insights on regional tourism developments, visit Shorty-News or explore authoritative sources like TechCrunch and The Verge.