MINJA KOVAČEVIĆ ŠURLAN ON THE MAJOR RECOGNITION THAT PUT BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA ON THE GLOBAL TOURISM MAP

Krupa na Vrbasu has received a prestigious international honor, being included on the “Best Tourism Villages” list by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) — the most significant and influential global institution in the field of tourism.

This marks the first time that Bosnia and Herzegovina has ever received such a recognition from UN Tourism or any organization of similar rank.

The acknowledgment came as a result of a project developed by the Tourist Organization of the City of Banja Luka (TOBL). Representing the country at the third global meeting held in China, Banja Luka had the opportunity — alongside Japan and Portugal — to present the journey of developing and enhancing the project from 2023 to today, before more than 100 participants.

“Compared to other rural settlements, Krupa na Vrbasu stood out for its cultural and historical heritage, as well as for its people who remain devoted to their hometowns rather than moving to cities. Generations continue to live, work, and create better conditions for those who come after them. In addition to religious tourism, this area has developed adventure tourism, rural households, and a strong spirit of entrepreneurship among residents eager to create and promote their own products and experiences,” said Minja Kovačević Šurlan, Director of the Tourist Organization of Banja Luka, in an interview with SeeSrpska after attending the award ceremony in China.

She emphasized that China demonstrated high standards of organization, hospitality, and safety, offering a strong example of how a country can prepare to welcome the world.

“Our Banja Luka region holds tremendous potential for rural tourism, but that potential remains largely underutilized. This award serves not only as recognition but also as a roadmap, proving that all levels of government must work together to combat unplanned construction in rural areas to preserve their identity,” Kovačević Šurlan explained.

She stressed the importance of adopting long-term, strategic plans and clearly defining investments that ensure the protection and sustainable development of rural environments.

“Every corner of our country carries its own customs, traditions, and ways of life that are still nurtured today. Each region is unique in its climate, which has shaped its people and, indirectly, its cultural heritage. We need to educate not only the local population but also workers in the tourism sector to effectively transfer this knowledge into modern, sustainable tourism and economic growth,” concluded Kovačević Šurlan.

Krupa na Vrbasu’s inclusion on the “Best Tourism Villages” list stands as a proud milestone for Bosnia and Herzegovina — proof that the country’s rural beauty, tradition, and community spirit have finally gained the recognition they deserve on the global stage.