Success of hotel and tourism industry celebrated at gala dinner

A grand salute was given to each tier of the tourism sector at the Gallagher Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA) 2024 Tourism Awards Gala Dinner. Held on Saturday night at the Wyndham Grand Barbados Sam Lord’s Castle, the event’s theme was Our Industry, Our Future, Together in Tourism.

Among the 16 awards was the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, which was presented to Lady Yvonne Gollop of the Rostrevor Hotel. 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.”

Sandpiper Inn emerged triumphant in multiple categories. Lamar Francis secured the Special Award in Any Endeavor, while Rodney Corbin could not contain his excitement as he was named Chef of the Year. They also won the coveted Hotel of The Year Award in the Luxury Class. O2 Beach Club and Spa took the A Class category, and All Seasons Resort Europa the B Class and Apartments category. Other award recipients included Cocktail Kitchen, with the Business Excellence – Restaurant Member of the Year Award and Sandals Resorts Barbados with the Social Responsibility Award. The Environmental and Sustainability Award went to Chukka Caribbean Adventures Barbados. Coral Reef Club secured both the Mixologist of the Year award with Kedane Wood and the Employee of the Year award with Sheldon Davis.

Ian Gooding-Edghill, Minister of Tourism and International Transport in his remarks said, “As we celebrate the success of our industry tonight, let us take a moment to reflect on the challenges that we have overcome and the opportunities that lie ahead. Together we have demonstrated resilience, creativity and a relentless commitment to excellence that has propelled Barbados’ tourism to new heights of success.”

He continued, “Tonight is about our industry, which stands as the driving force shaping the future of Barbados, and the rank of tourism from the most modern enterprises to the largest establishments. We can all attest that success hinges on our collective efforts.”

Extending thanks to all involved in the service industry, Minister Gooding-Edghill acknowledged, “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.”

Outgoing Chairman of the BHTA Renée Coppin emphasised the importance of partnership for success and noted that Barbados was among the top 10 islands in the region for tourism recovery in the first quarter of this year. However, she noted, “There is going to be a period of adjustment because we know we have added significant room stock into our inventory.”     

She expressed gratitude for the support she received during her tenure, saying, “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.” She was honoured with the presentation of a live portrait created by Alex Marshall adorned in the colours of the BHTA logo.

The evening concluded with an eclectic set by the John Roett Project, featuring lead vocals by Biggie Irie and Tamara Marshall. Attendees enjoyed a special guest appearance by Red Plastic Bag. (STT)