Kingstown – Continuing on its winning streak, Jamaica received three prestigious World Travel Awards Caribbean & The Americas 2022 on Wednesday.
The island was named the Caribbean’s Leading Tourist Board 2022 for the 14th year in a row, the Caribbean’s Leading Destination 2022 for the 16th year in a row, and the Caribbean’s Leading Nature Destination 2022 at the first World Travel Awards ceremony since the lifting of the global travel restrictions in place because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This was a very powerful night for us because even though Jamaica has traditionally led in the field of awards, the feeling of satisfaction is stronger this year because we all struggled and fought to recover from this pandemic,” Minister of Tourism Ed Bartlett said as he thanked the travel professionals and consumers who voted for the island.
“For Jamaica to have emerged as the leading destination is a strong statement that our team worked assiduously to make this happen. Our beautiful destination has been a leader in the recovery of the global tourism industry due in large part to our destination assurance programme that allowed us to confidently welcome visitors back to our shores.”
Director of the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) Donovan White said earning the highest marks for a tourist board and destination was a great honour.
“It’s a testament to the work of the JTB staff and all of our stakeholders, from the largest of hotel chains to our individual tour operators and craft persons, to be recognised like this and we are grateful,” he said.
The awards ceremony at Sandals Montego Bay marked the opening leg of the 29th annual World Travel Awards.
Executive Vice President at the World Travel Awards, Justin Cooke said the last two years presented unprecedented challenges, but “it’s fantastic to be back”.
A win at the annual World Travel Awards is considered the premier travel and tourist industry accolade.
Voted by travel and tourism professionals and consumers worldwide, the awards recognise each winner’s demonstrated commitment to excellence.
(CMC)