About USAID's Developing Sustainable Tourism in Bosnia and Herzegovina (Turizam)

With the aim of positioning Bosnia and Herzegovina as a competitive destination on the global market, the US Government, through the USAID Turizam project, is working on advancing human capital in the tourism sector, improving access to finance for tourism businesses, developing innovative tourist products, harmonizing policies and regulations and revolutionizing destination branding and promotion. Through a broad-based approach to sustainable tourism development, USAID Turizam contributes to economic growth and social harmony in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
USAID Turizam continuously refines its approach to engage global tourists, with a strong emphasis on its rich cultural tapestry. Here are three pivotal initiatives, designed to spotlight and promote the country’s diverse cultural heritage and living traditions.

Find out more at: https://turizambih.ba/

The Most Beautiful Villages of Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) - Preserving the Rural Heartbeat

This initiative presents unique and authentic experiences to visitors, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. It is an initiative that aims to promote and preserve the traditional architecture, cultural heritage, and natural beauty of BiH’s rural areas, recognizing the need to preserve these unique and authentic places and share them with visitors from around the world. The Most Beautiful Villages of BiH initiative currently includes 14 villages across the country, each with its own distinct character, history, and cultural significance. These villages are home to traditional architecture, including stone houses, wooden bridges, and ancient fortresses, as well as scenic landscapes of rolling hills, crystal-clear rivers, and lush forests.

Cultural tourism resonates with three aspects of heritage, enabling a greater level of cultural sustainability: the natural/ecosystem heritage of the landscape and region, the built heritage (monuments, buildings, and archaeological sites), and local culture specificity (including livelihood, artisanship, know-hows, and gastronomy). Collectively, and in addition to preserving heritage, these three aspects can act as a magnet for affluent visitors who are looking for authentic and immersive experiences. Additionally, traditional craftsmanship enables visitors to witness firsthand the craftsmanship that goes into creating traditional Bosnian artefacts, such as hand-woven textiles and carved wooden items. Engaging with artisans directly, tourists get a chance to understand the cultural significance behind each craft.  As such, being part of the label "Most Beautiful Villages" leads to economic growth, heritage preservation, and sustainable development of rural areas. 
Find out more at: https://mbv.ba/

Hub and Spokes model: Bridging Modernity with Tradition

This model encompasses captivating trips in the vicinity of Sarajevo, Mostar, and Banja Luka that is not just about exploring new places; it is actually an individual experience of different cultures and a way to create an authentic narrative about the locality. In order to enable visitors coming to Bosnia and Herzegovina to carry the most beautiful memories with them and enrich their overall destination experience, USAID Turizam created a unique model, connecting vibrant cities and charming smaller localities in their immediate vicinity. The Hub and Spokes model connects main destinations (Hubs) and provides easy access to various interesting tourist experiences, destinations, and attractions (Spokes). This innovative approach allows travellers to delve deeper into the cultural heritage and diversity of the country, all within a 1.5-hour drive.
The Hub and Spokes Model serves as a cultural compass for travellers in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Directing visitors beyond bustling urban centres, it reveals the heart of smaller towns where traditional crafts, music, and folklore breathe life into local communities. This model plays a crucial role in preserving these artisanal traditions, ensuring their stories resonate with future generations. Architecturally, the journey is a tapestry of eras, blending Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and native Bosnian influences, cultivating a deep appreciation for the nation's historical depth. Moreover, the gastronomic delights found along these routes provide a taste of Bosnia's rich culinary heritage, inviting travellers to savour age-old recipes that tell tales of the land and its people.

Find out more at: https://bit.ly/Sa-Mo-BL

The hidden gem in the southern region of BiH – The Herzegovina Wine Route

The Herzegovina Wine Route is part of the Cultural Route of the Council of Europe Iter Vitis, a unique journey that will take you through the stunning southern region of Bosnia and Herzegovina, including Mostar, the European City of Wine Dionisio 2024! The Herzegovina Wine Route is a unity between the region’s authentic quality wines and the hospitality of its people and home to around 30 wineries, vast vineyards, great gastronomy ranging from hearty rustic dishes to elevated culinary experiences, and quality accommodations, all linked by their shared commitment to regional winemaking traditions.

Herzegovina is known for its Mediterranean climate, breathtaking landscapes, and authentic cultural heritage, attracting visitors from around the world. As you explore the dramatic Herzegovinian karst landscape, you will be treated to sweeping views of expansive vineyards, embedded with an historical thread that has contributed to the culture of local communities. The production of celebrated, quality regional wine is deeply rooted in the Herzegovinian landscape, and the region’s exceptional wine pairs perfectly with the warm hospitality of its people. Today, Herzegovina is known for a selection of authentic wines, the most notable being Žilavka, Blatina, Trnjak, and Vranac.

The Herzegovina Wine Route is not just a journey through vineyards; it's a voyage through time and tradition. The region's historical vineyards, some of which have roots tracing back centuries, provide a living testament to ancient winemaking techniques still cherished today. Along this path, travellers are often greeted by cultural wine events, where the rhythmic cadence of Herzegovinian music and dance gracefully pairs with the region's esteemed wines, offering a multi-sensory celebration of heritage. Furthermore, the route emphasizes the harmonious union of wine and gastronomy. By introducing visitors to traditional Herzegovinian dishes, the wine route encapsulates the essence of the region's vibrant agricultural and culinary traditions.

Find out more at: https://hwr.ba/

As we journey through these cultural landscapes, cultural tourism promotes the acquisition of essential skills, ranging from digital and entrepreneurial prowess to traditional and specialized expertise. By supporting these sectors, it becomes a driving force behind sustainable social and economic development.