Jamaica was definitely the big star of the 2010 World Travel Awards grand final, receiving several prestigious awards at the gala held at London’s Grosvenor House hotel on November 7th. Among some of the top recognitions it received, Jamaica was named the world’s leading cruise destination, and Montego Bay being voted the world’s leading beach destination.
Acclaimed as ‘The Oscars of the Travel Industry’ by the Wall Street Journal, the World Travel Awards also recognised Sandals Resorts as the world’s leading all-inclusive company, Beaches Negril as the world’s leading family all-inclusive, the Round Hill Hotel and Villas as the world’s leading villa and Island Routes as the world’s leading Caribbean attractions company.
Jamaica’s sprint star Usain Bolt also won the Face of Travel Award, after competing against Arnold Schwarzenegger, David Beckham, Kevin Spacey, Rafael Nadal, Kevin Costner and Iron Maiden’s Bruce Dickenson.
Usain Bolt , the world’s fastest man was the star of destination’s ‘Once You Go You Know’ ad campaign, his and the ads role in boosting Jamaica’s tourism profile being celebrated at the ceremony. The campaign secured Jamaica’s award acknowledging the celebrity endorsement that has made the biggest contribution to the travel and tourist industry in the past year.
“I am a proud man, for Jamaica has not only captured the imagination of the world as a premier destination, but the world has seen that our performance merits its reward,” said Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett. “These seven awards that have been attained by the destination and stakeholders will inspire us to offer even greater services to our clients.”
“Being voted the Caribbean’s leading destination is a major endorsement for Jamaica,” said John Lynch, director of tourism, “but to be voted as a world leader in these categories, speaks volumes for the quality of the product and service we offer. We are elated with the awards and we offer hearty con-gratulations to our private-sector partners who have helped to shape that distinct Jamaican product.”
The World Travel Awards are the industry’s highest achievements determined by 183,000 travel professionals casting their votes, including travel agencies, tour and transport companies and tourism organisations from some 162 countries around the world.
By Amey MyersAmey, an intrepid traveler and avid blogger, roams the world, absorbing diverse cultures, flavors, and experiences. Her writing captures the essence of her adventures, inspiring others to explore. Amey's infectious passion for travel and storytelling epitomizes a life filled with exploration and adventure.
