NASSAU, The Bahamas, May 21, 2024
/CNW/ -- The Bahamas has been
awarded the prestigious Caribbean Destination Resilience Award by
the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) in collaboration
with the Caribbean Alliance for Sustainable Tourism (CAST). This
award is a testament to The Bahamas' unwavering commitment to
sustainability and resilience in tourism, aligning with the United
Nations World Tourism Organization's (UNWTO) 17 Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs).
The Caribbean Destination Resilience Award acknowledges
destinations that exhibit a deliberate focus on resiliency,
particularly through innovative strategies and collaborative
efforts that engage both public and private sector stakeholders.
The Bahamas' exemplary initiatives
in addressing climate change and fostering sustainable development
have set a benchmark in the region, making it a deserving recipient
of this honour.
The Bahamas competed in
Category A, for destinations with over 500,000 annual stopover
visitors. The judging criteria encompassed five main themes:
Commitments to Partnership and Collaboration,
Sustainable/Resiliency Related Activities, Innovation and
Technology, Linkages and External Engagement, and Contribution of
Initiatives to Tourism.
The Bahamas' winning submission
showcased the resilience of the Abacos post-Hurricane Dorian and
highlighted the destination's strategic use of collaborative
partnerships. These efforts not only facilitated the region's
reconstruction but also emphasized the importance of preserving its
natural and cultural heritage. Through this balance, the Abacos
ensure that visitors have memorable experiences that honour the
environment and uplift local communities.
The Honourable I. Chester Cooper,
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments &
Aviation for The Bahamas, said:
"The Caribbean Destination Resilience Award is a real
achievement for the Abacos, and the thanks go out to the many
public and private entities that have come together and worked in
partnership to make sustainable tourism a priority to preserve,
protect, and promote the area as a travel destination with a strong
future. From mangrove restoration to energy conservation, and the
promotion of community-based tourism activities that celebrate the
islands, the Abacos are proof positive that collaboration is the
way to address the important issues of the day."
Across the Abacos, organizations such as The Abacos Stewardship
Council, Friends of the Environment and the Bahamas National Trust
worked with NGOs and other community organizations to
collectively address a number of issues across the
destination including sustainable reconstruction, environmental
restoration and community empowerment. This model demonstrated use
of unparalleled strategies necessary for developing a sustainable
future.
"We are immensely proud of The Abacos for receiving the CHTA
Destination Resilience Award," added Latia
Duncombe, Director General of the Bahamas Ministry of
Tourism, Investments & Aviation. "This recognition is a
testament to the unwavering spirit and dedication of the Abaco
community and our partner organizations in championing sustainable
tourism and resilience. The Abacos have not only recovered but have
become a beacon of inspiration for sustainable tourism in the
Caribbean."
The Caribbean Destination Resilience Award highlights best
practices in the region, serving as an inspiration for other
destinations to adopt similar collaborative and innovative
approaches to sustainability. The Bahamas' recognition underscores its
leadership in the Caribbean's
tourism sector, setting a high standard for resiliency and
sustainable development.
For more information about The Bahamas' sustainability initiatives and
tourism offerings, please visit www.bahamas.com.
About The Bahamas:
The Bahamas has over 700 islands
and cays, as well as 16 unique island destinations. Located only 50
miles off the coast of Florida, it
offers a quick and easy way for travellers to escape their
everyday. The island nation also boasts world-class fishing,
diving, boating and thousands of miles of the earth's most
spectacular beaches for families, couples and adventurers to
explore. See why It's Better in The Bahamas at www.bahamas.com or on
Facebook, YouTube or Instagram.
Media Contacts:
Anita Johnson-Patty
Director Global Communications
Bahamas Ministry of Tourism & Aviation
Ajohnson@Bahamas.com
Bahamas USA
FINN Bahamas
Bahamasusa@finnpartners.com
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SOURCE The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments &
Aviation