Minister of Tourism and International Transport, Ian Gooding-Edghill, has praised the Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA) for the role it continues to play in making Barbados a premier destination.
Mr. Gooding-Edghill commended the BHTA during its Gallagher-sponsored 2024 Tourism Awards Gala and Dinner at the Wyndham Grand Barbados Sam Lord’s Castle, last Saturday, held under the theme “Our Industry, Our Future, Together in Tourism”.
The Tourism Minister said the industry was rebounding from the COVID-19 pandemic due to the efforts of the Ministry and the BHTA, and thanked the outgoing Chairman, Renée Coppin, for working with the Ministry.
“Let me first of all extend my deepest gratitude and a heartfelt thanks to you for your stewardship. We could not have built the industry we are in without of course the support of the Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association and certainly without your leadership,” Mr. Gooding-Edghill stated.
He also used the opportunity to thank all those involved in the sector. “It would be remiss of me not to acknowledge that what truly sets Barbados apart is our people. Time and time again, visitors from around the globe tell us that the reason they keep coming back is because of the warm hospitality and genuine kindness of the people of Barbados….
“From the front-line staff who greet guests with a smile and go above and beyond to ensure their comfort and satisfaction, to the dedicated professionals behind the scenes who work tirelessly to promote our destination and enhance the visitor experience, each one of you is a true ambassador for Barbados,” Minister Gooding-Edghill said.
Ms. Coppin also praised those in the sector, and expressed appreciation for the support received during her tenure, stating: “Thank you for making this association the best private sector one on the island, bar none, and for making me as your champion, able to stand up and do things that needed to be done and say the things that needed to be said.”
The most notable award for the evening, the BHTA’s Lifetime Achievement Award went to Lady Yvonne Gollop of the Rostrevor Hotel. Upon accepting her award, she said: “I accept this award not for my own behalf but on behalf of my many family members who played a part, and a team of dedicated and loyal employees, many of whom are still with us and have made this all possible.”
The other winners of the night included Sandpiper Inn – Hotel of the Year Luxury Class; O2 Beach Club & Spa – Hotel of the Year “A” Class; and All Seasons Resort Europa – Hotel of the Year “B” Class and Apartments.
Chef of the Year was won by Rodney Corbin from the Sandpiper Inn; winning Mixologist of the Year was Kedane Wood from the Coral Reef Club; and the Employee of the Year Award went to Sheldon Davis of the Coral Reef Club.
Also taking home awards were Cocktail Kitchen for Business Excellence Restaurant Member of the Year; Atlantis Submarines Barbados for Business Excellence Tourism Attraction Member of the Year; the Social Responsibility Award went to Sandals Resorts Barbados, and Chukka Caribbean Adventures Barbados Ltd. won the Environmental and Sustainability Award.