Văleni has become a true tourist attraction with support from locals and the EU
In recent years, the European Union has invested tens of millions of lei to develop rural tourism in the Republic of Moldova. This support has largely benefited small entrepreneurs who have transformed ordinary homes into agri-pensions. Thanks to European funding, village tourism is thriving, and local communities are growing by attracting visitors from around the world. An example of this success is the village of Văleni, Cahul district. With modest investments and a strong commitment from both the authorities and local residents, the area has evolved into a genuine tourist destination.
Viorica Cebanu, a Romanian language teacher from the village of Văleni, decided two years ago to transform her parents' house into a tourist guesthouse. She needed nearly 150,000 lei to rehabilitate the property, and more than half of that amount was provided as a grant through European Union-funded projects.
"We created decent living conditions while preserving the authenticity of the house. We kept absolutely everything that belonged to our parents. The parents' house is not for sale; we welcome guests," she shared.
The guesthouse attracts over 100 tourists annually, most of whom are from Romania. They are drawn by the authentic charm of the place and the opportunity to enjoy an atmosphere reminiscent of days gone by.
Similarly, Vera Caminschi manages a tourist complex known for having the only bread museum in the Republic of Moldova. A few years ago, she received a European grant of 25,000 euros to develop her business.
"We had the opportunity to expand our existing accommodation. This allowed us to add six more rooms, each with its own bathroom. Our visibility has increased significantly, and we were also able to create a website. Now, tourists come to us from Europe and beyond," she explained.
The Boieru couple also runs a business in the tourism sector that is supported financially by the European Union.
"We are grateful to those who support us in business, promote local traditions, and help us thrive. Because of their support, we can live here and continue to develop," they said.
Located on the edge of the "Lower Prut" Nature Reserve, the village of Văleni attracts thousands of tourists from around the world each year. The area's authentic rural landscapes and the hospitality of the locals have become the village's hallmark. In recent years, more locals have begun to capitalize on the area's tourism potential with the help of European funds.
"I estimate that around a million euros have been invested in the village of Văleni through European Union assistance. Europe is teaching us how to be good homeowners," said the mayor of Văleni, Silvia Știrbeț.
Most European investments were made through the "EU4Moldova: Key Regions" program, implemented by UNDP and UNICEF. This project, valued at 23 million euros, aims to support socio-economic development and enhance the tourism potential of the Cahul and Ungheni regions.
