Tourism has faced challenges recovering after the pandemic, raising concerns about its
long-term sustainability. This study aims to evaluate and enhance sustainable tourism practices
using the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Destination Criteria, which include four
key pillars: sustainable management, socio-economic benefits, cultural preservation, and
environmental protection. Two nature-based village tourism destinations were selected as case
studies: Pancoh Ecotourism Village in Indonesia and Zhentoushan Agriculture Leisure Area in
Taiwan. The research applied a mixed-methods approach, combining direct observation,
GSTC-based checklist interviews, mapping of tourism activities, and literature review.
Checklist responses were analysed quantitatively, while interview and observational data were
examined qualitatively and presented in descriptive narratives.
The comparative analysis shows that both destinations have strengths and limitations
across different sustainability aspects. Pancoh demonstrates strong community-based
involvement and efforts in maintaining local socio-cultural and environmental values. In
contrast, Zhentoushan excels in infrastructure, stakeholder coordination, and environmental
regulations supported by private and institutional stakeholders. The findings highlight
opportunities for cross-learning and identify strategies to strengthen each destination’s
sustainability based on the GSTC indicators.