By Breaking Belize News Staff (HP): The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) celebrated the outstanding achievements of Belize’s tourism industry on Saturday, November 21, during the 2025 National Tourism Awards Gala held in Belize City. The prestigious event recognized the top performers and innovators shaping the nation’s most influential economic sector.
The ceremony featured a special video address by Prime Minister John Briceño, who commended tourism stakeholders for their contributions to Belize’s economic growth and global visibility. Government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, industry leaders, partners, nominees, and award recipients attended the gala.
Awards were presented in twelve categories, spotlighting individuals and organizations that exemplify excellence in service, sustainability, hospitality, and cultural preservation. Winners included Elvin Torres (Tour Guide of the Year), Eric Mendez (Frontline Person of the Year), Barefoot Services (Tour Operator of the Year), Slate & Sap (Restaurant of the Year), Copal Tree Lodge (Green Champion & Hotel of the Year), and legendary filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola, honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award.
BTB expressed gratitude to its partners, including Bowen & Bowen, Travellers Liquors, Fort George Hotel & Spa, Madisco, DF Music, and others, for their support in making the event a success. The Board also extended congratulations to all winners and nominees for elevating Belize’s tourism product on the global stage.
Belize continues its upward trajectory as a world-class destination, recording 562,405 overnight visitors in 2024, a historic achievement marking a 21% year-over-year increase and surpassing pre-pandemic numbers. The country’s leadership in sustainability was also recognized as Belize hosted the inaugural World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards (WSTHA), earning the title of World’s Leading Sustainable Destination.
From award-winning luxury resorts to revitalized public spaces and major road infrastructure upgrades, Belize’s tourism industry continues to expand access, enhance visitor experiences, and strengthen its reputation as a responsible and top-tier global destination.
The post BTB honors industry excellence at the 2025 National Tourism Awards Gala appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Breaking Belize News Staff (HP): The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) celebrated the outstanding achievements of Belize’s tourism industry on Saturday, November 21, during the 2025 National Tourism Awards Gala held in Belize City. The prestigious event recognized the top performers and innovators shaping the nation’s most influential economic sector. The ceremony featured a special
The post BTB honors industry excellence at the 2025 National Tourism Awards Gala appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
