Inagua Joins North Andros, Gdańsk, Tangier, and Singapore in Crafting a Love Story for Literature: How These Cities Are Crafting the Future of Sustainable Tourism?

Published on December 27, 2025

By: Paramita Sarkar

As part of its ongoing efforts to recognize cities that use literature as a driver of sustainable tourism, UNESCO has officially expanded the Cities of Literature program, adding Inagua and North Andros in the Bahamas, Gdańsk in Poland, Tangier in Morocco, and Singapore to the prestigious list. These cities are now officially recognized for their contributions to literary tourism, cultural heritage, and sustainable development through literature.

The inclusion of these cities marks a significant milestone in 2026, as they embrace the global shift toward sustainable tourism and the role of literature in shaping local economies, promoting cultural exchange, and preserving environmental resources. As more destinations incorporate literary tourism into their cultural fabric, the world is witnessing a literary renaissance where stories, heritage, and sustainability intersect to create unique travel experiences.

Inagua Joins North Andros in The Bahamas’ Commitment to Sustainable Literary Tourism

In the Bahamas, Inagua and North Andros have become the latest islands to be recognized by UNESCO for their efforts to integrate literature into community-driven tourism and environmental stewardship. The newly established Destination Stewardship Councils on both islands, in partnership with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), have become instrumental in the Bahamas’ sustainable tourism efforts.

The islands of Inagua and North Andros boast a rich literary history, vibrant oral storytelling traditions, and ecologically diverse environments that make them ideal destinations for eco-tourism and literary retreats. These councils will focus on promoting eco-friendly travel while preserving the natural resources and cultural heritage of these pristine islands.

Through their efforts, both islands aim to use literature as a platform for promoting local culture while ensuring environmental preservation. Whether through literary events or community outreach programs, these regions are embracing sustainable tourism as a means to strengthen local economies.

Gdańsk Joins the Literary Movement: Celebrating Freedom of Expression and Baltic Literary Heritage

In Poland, Gdańsk has earned a place in the Cities of Literature program due to its deep-rooted literary heritage and commitment to freedom of expression. As a key city in the Baltic region, Gdańsk is dedicated to preserving its rich literary past, including works of Polish poets and novelists who have shaped European culture for centuries.

For 2026, the city is focusing on promoting its literary heritage while fostering multicultural dialogue and literary freedom. Gdańsk’s vibrant literary festivals, along with its historical significance in freedom movements, make it a beacon of literary tourism in Eastern Europe.

The city’s annual literary festivals will continue to draw international attention, creating a global space for writers and intellectuals to discuss contemporary issues while celebrating the cultural legacy of the Baltic region.

Tangier Joins the Literary Scene: A Multicultural Hub for Literary Dialogue

In Morocco, Tangier has been designated as a City of Literature due to its unique position as a multicultural and multilingual city that serves as a meeting point for literary voices from around the world. With its rich history, blending European, Arab, and African cultures, Tangier has long been a haven for writers seeking inspiration.

Tangier’s literary scene draws from the city’s cosmopolitan nature and serves as an open platform for multilingual literary dialogue. In 2026, Tangier plans to expand its role as a center for literary festivals and workshops, further enriching its cultural landscape and global influence.

With its strategic location on the Mediterranean and its role as a crossroads between Europe and Africa, Tangier is poised to become a literary crossroads for writers from diverse backgrounds, fostering an inclusive and global literary community.

Singapore: Leading the Way in Literary Tourism with Technology and Sustainability

Singapore has long been a leader in integrating literary tourism with modern technology and sustainable practices. As a UNESCO City of Literature, Singapore has created cutting-edge literary spaces, such as its Library Under the Treetops and its expanding network of public reading lounges across the city.

For 2026, Singapore will continue to innovate with its digital tools to make literature more accessible to global audiences. The city’s ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability is intertwined with its efforts to promote literary tourism, ensuring that the future of tourism is both culturally enriching and eco-friendly.

How the Cities of Literature are Changing Global Tourism

The inclusion of Inagua, North Andros, Gdańsk, Tangier, and Singapore in UNESCO’s Cities of Literature is more than just a recognition of their literary heritage; it is a powerful commitment to sustainable tourism. These cities are making literature a key element of their tourism infrastructure, offering wellness-focused literary retreats, creative workshops, and cultural festivals that enrich the travel experience for visitors.

From Inagua’s eco-tourism to Singapore’s technological integration in literary tourism, these cities are leading the way in creating sustainable travel experiences that benefit local communities while promoting global cultural exchange. As the world moves towards more responsible and community-driven tourism, these Cities of Literature are setting the stage for a future where literature and sustainability go hand in hand.

The Future of Literary Tourism in 2026 and Beyond

With the increasing interest in literary tourism, destinations like Inagua, North Andros, Gdańsk, Tangier, and Singapore are perfectly positioned to meet the growing demand for cultural and sustainable travel. These cities are not only embracing literature as an essential component of their tourism economies but are also shaping the future of travel by blending sustainability, cultural pride, and literary heritage in innovative ways.

The Cities of Literature program is helping to highlight the potential of literature as a tool for community empowerment, economic growth, and cultural exchange. As travelers seek more meaningful, enriching experiences, these cities are providing authentic literary retreats, cultural immersions, and sustainable travel options that align with the values of modern tourism. Whether it’s reading by the sea in Tangier, exploring eco-tourism in Inagua, or enjoying digital literary experiences in Singapore, these destinations offer something unique for every traveler in 2026 and beyond.