FORTY (40) FINALISTS UP FOR TOP HONOURS AT 2026 BHTA TOURISM AWARDS THIS SATURDAY, JUNE 13

FORTY (40) finalists will vie for 17 prestigious awards at the Gallagher BTMI Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA) 2026 Tourism Awards Gala Dinner, which will be held at the Wyndham Grand Barbados this Saturday, June 13.

They include Coral Reef Club, Sandy Lane Hotel, The Sandpiper, Hilton Barbados Resort, Mango Bay Hotel, The Sands, All Seasons Resort – Europa, Atlantis Historic Inn, Rostrevor Hotel, Blue Sky Luxury, St. James Travel & Tours, Grantley Adams International Airport and Byde Mill.

Le Shack Restaurant, Cocktail Kitchen, The Park Café, Chukka Caribbean Adventures Harrison’s Cave Eco-Adventure Park, Stade’s Rum Visitors Centre, Harbour Lights Barbados, Barbados Conference Services Limited., Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc., Sandals, Ocean Hotels Barbados, Petra Roach, Gercine Carter, Aidan Taylor and Julianne Butcher are also up for awards.

The other finalists are Shani Watson-Holder, Rhea Griffith, Dale Jordan, Ricardo Watson, Dennis Alleyne, Willis Griffith, Damian Leach, Oviston Edwards, Kennedy Boyce, DeAndre Holder, Richiann Massiah and Poinciana Luxe Escapes.

Chairman of the Association, Javon Griffith, congratulated the finalists and explained that the response to this year’s bi-annual awards was fantastic. He said, “The BHTA Tourism awards recognise outstanding achievements and excellence across Barbados’ tourism and hospitality sectors and this year we received over 150 nominations across all categories.

“At a time when global competition for visitors has never been greater, the individuals and organisations recognised as finalists this year exemplify the excellence, professionalism and innovation that continue to distinguish Barbados on the world stage. 

“Their dedication elevates our visitor experience, strengthens our tourism product and contributes meaningfully to our national development. On behalf of the Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association, I congratulate each finalist on this well-deserved recognition. This Saturday, we celebrate not only achievement, but also the spirit of service, leadership and excellence that defines the very best of Barbadian tourism.”  

The 17 awards up for grabs include BHTA Hotel of the Year in the categories Luxury Class, A Class, B Class & Apartments and Vacation Rental Property Management Company; Direct Tourism Services Member; and Business Excellence Member in the categories of Restaurant, Tourism Attraction and Tourism Industry Stakeholder.

BHTA Supporting Member, Environmental & Sustainability, Social Responsibility, Distinguished Service to Tourism, Young Leader, Bartender, Chef and Tourism Employee of the Year as well as the People’s Choice – Service Excellence are also being contended. The Chairman’s Lifetime Achievement Award will also be presented at the event. (PR)