Over the weekend on October 19, 2019, the Belize Tourism Board hosted their annual tourism awards. Experts in the tourism industry gathered at the Caribbean Motors Showroom for a night of recognition.
The National Tourism Awards are held annually, to acknowledge and award those in the tourism industry for excellent service in the hospitality and tourism industry.
Belize has become an attractive destination. The organizations, properties, and businesses in attendance at the awards are key players in making Belize the desirable destination it is today. In recognition of their hard work and dedication, the BTB used this night to celebrate and honour those in the industry.
Winners for 2019
Hotel of the Year – The Lodge at Jaguar Reef
Photo Courtesy: The Lodge at Jaguar Reef
The Lodge at Jaguar Reef, located in Hopkins Village, takes home the prize for being the Hotel of the year. This lodge has been the resort of choice for many due to its central location, allowing access to a mix of marine and jungle adventures. Additionally, its stunning accommodations, delicious beachfront dining, and outstanding service makes it a hotel favorite. If you are looking for a place to stay in Hopkins, be sure to check Jaguar Reef out!
In addition to this award, Shakira McGreggor from The Lodge at Jaguar Reef took home the prestigious award of Front Line Person of the Year.
Small Accommodation of the Year – Blue Marlin Beach Resort
Blue Marlin Beach Resort, located on the beautiful island of South Water Caye, is a tropical paradise. 14 miles offshore from Dangriga, this resort sits atop of the Belize Barrier Reef, making marine adventures from diving, fishing, and snorkelling at your doorstep.
Destination of the Year – Caye Caulker
Photo courtesy: BTB
Caye Caulker wins the destination of the year. This little island, a 15-minute flight from or an hour boat ride from Belize City has been gaining popularity over the years. Its rustic, laid back tropical vibe, with the Belize Barrier Reef at your doorstep makes it a sought after destination.
Top Performing Hotel – Grand Caribe
Photo Courtesy: ROEming Belize
Grand Caribe, located 2 Miles North San Pedro Town, San Pedro, is the perfect place to vacation as a family, couple or as friends, with there being a suite perfect for everyone! Caribbean themed and kid-friendly, with 6 swimming pools, 800 feet of beachfront, two restaurants, a spa, and many more other resort amenities, you will be sure to have a fantastic vacation here.
Tourism Site of the Year – Half Moon Caye Natural Monument
Photo Courtesy: Belize Audubon Society
Half Moon Caye Natural Monument wins Tourism Site of the Year. Located 55 miles east of Belize City on the Southeast of the Lighthouse Reef Atoll, it is a site to put on your bucket list when in Belize. Half Moon Caye is the oldest protected area in Belize managed by Belize Audubon Society. It was established in 1928 when the government of Belize designated it as a breeding sanctuary for the red-footed booby. Not only home to the red-footed boobies, it is also a nesting ground for turtles. Recreationally, it is a fantastic place to dive and snorkel being surrounded by vibrant marine life.
Other winners of the night include:
San Pedro Tourist Guide Association wins for Tour Guide Association of the Year.
Street Art Festival wins for Major Festival/Event of the Year.
Island Expeditions/Adventures wins Tour Operator of the Year award
Hamanasi Adventures & Dive Resort wins the Hospitality award.
The Grove House Restaurant at Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge wins for the Restaurant of the Year.
Martin Ack from Tide Tours wins for the Tour Guide of the Year.
Lascelle & Sarita Tillett wins the Lifetime Achievement Award
Congratulations to all the winners and nominees for the excellent work throughout the year.
Photos from the evening courtesy Belize Tourism Board
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