UNESCO and its esteemed partners, DASTA, ASEAN-Türkiye Cooperation, K11, CRIHAP, ONYX, The City Connext and BConsulting Cambodia, are delighted to unveil a networking project that aims at bolstering community-based tourism in the waterway cities of the ASEAN region. This project leverages UNESCO's international network to foster meaningful dialogues on sustainable tourism.

A series of webinars and an immersive workshop are crafted to enrich travel enterprises and professionals, especially those deeply rooted in community-based tourism within ASEAN. A central feature of this initiative is a focused workshop in the serene Old City of Nan, Thailand, welcoming participants from Cambodia, Lao PDR, and Thailand.

Our Common Goal:

This endeavor is set to cultivate a deeper understanding and application of sustainable tourism, intertwined with the rich tapestry of intangible cultural heritage and the UNESCO Creative Cities Network. Our vision is  to support local communities and promote sustainable tourism practices that also contribute to local economic development.

Your Invitation to Connect and Grow:

• Webinar 1 | 24 November 2023: Delving into the nuances of community-based business models in waterway locales
  
  
• Webinar 2 | 3 February 2024: Rethinking sustainable dining within UNESCO locales
  
  
• Webinar 3 | 20 March 2024: Harnessing digital tools for greater community involvement in the tourism narrative
  
  
• Webinar 4 | 10 April 2024: Exploring sustainable festival and event tourism as a growth driver
  
  
• Webinar 5 | 29 May 2024: Sharing indigenous stories and experiences from the source of rivers for a more profound tourism journey
  
  
• Webinar 6 | 19 June 2024: Addressing the challenge of plastic use in travel: from policy formulation to practical application.

We warmly invite tourism professionals from ASEAN nations to partake in these insightful discussions by registering for each webinar at our Project Portal or scan the below QR code.

For the specialized workshop, applicants from Cambodia, Lao PDR, and Thailand can apply until 15 December 2023 at Workshop Application. Selected participants will be announced on UNESCO Bangkok's website on 20 December 2023. UNESCO will generously cover travel expenses, double-occupancy accommodation, and meals from 3-8 February 2024 for all selected participants.

This project is more than an initiative; it's a gathering of minds and passions, committed to sculpting a tourism industry that is as nurturing to the local communities as it is enriching for travelers. For more detailed information, please refer to our website or follow UNESCO Bangkok for ongoing updates.