BTB bestows National Tourism Awards

On Friday Night the Belize Tourism Board hosted its second annual National Tourism Awards. Over three hundred guests witnessed the event in which ten organisations or persons were honoured for their achievements. The environmental organisation of the year award went to the Coastal Zone Management Authority. Corporate organisation of the year is Belize Electricity Limited, and educational organisation of the year was awarded to the University of Belize. Tour guide of the year is Billy Leslie of San Pedro, receptive service of the year went to the Cruise Ship Taxi Association, tour operator of the year went out to C & G tours of Dangriga and the Lodge at Chaa Creek was named hotel of the year. The lifetime achievement award, given in recognition of outstanding and continued commitment in the development of Belize’s Tourism Industry, was given to John Searle Sr. of Belize Global Travel Services. A special recognition award went to Michelle Garbutt for her twenty years of service at the Belize Tourism Board. The recipient of the prestigious minister’s award was Eden “Jet” Holland, the long time bar operator at the P.G.I.A. for his enduring dedication and charisma. The gala event was held at the Biltmore Plaza.