Tag: Tourism

Belize Official Host Destination for this Inaugural Global Awards

Belize is set to host the first annual World Sustainable Travel and Hospitality Awards Gala Ceremony on Friday, September 27, 2024. The privilege is seen as a recognition of Belize’s leadership in encouraging conscientious and sustainable initiatives in tourism.

News Five was present at the launching of the award last year in Dubai, UAE. According to the official announcement made by the Belize Tourism Board (BTB), this global event is scheduled to happen this year on the same day as World Tourism Day, September 27.

Minister of Tourism and Diaspora Relations, Anthony Mahler, said, “These new awards from the World Travel Awards will shine a light on the biggest players in sustainability from across the globe…Responsible tourism is central to everything we do in Belize. From leading the way for the conservation of Jaguars in Central America with the Maya Forest Corridor, to the development of community-based tourism clusters that promote the preservation of our Indigenous Communities and our work rolling out our Sustainable Tourism Certification Program for Protected Areas and tourism-based businesses in the next couple of years, Belize is committed to sustainable tourism development.”.

Nicole Solano, C.E.O. of the Ministry of Tourism and Diaspora Relations, told News Five, “This is the first of its kind under the World Travel Awards banner… We will be welcoming the winners in the categories for this big event in September.”

In addition to hosting, Belize has lined up nominations in various categories. “Belize companies have submitted as well, but remember they are competing with all of these global companies,” Solano said.

In addition, Belize has been nominated for World’s Leading Sustainable Destination 2024. Various Belize companies have been nominated under the following categories: World’s Leading Sustainable Female Empowerment Initiative 2024, Leading Sustainable Cultural Heritage Project 2024, Leading Sustainable Marine Conservation Initiative 2024, Leading Sustainable Community Engagement Programme 2024.

The voting period is open and will end on August 2 of this year.

Belize Among Cheapest Country in Latin America for US travellers 

Belize ranked number 2 as the most affordable country in Latin America, behind Barbados in the number 1 spot. Yahoo Finance reports that airfare to Belize is USD 411, and accommodation costs are USD 199. It says, “Belize is a captivating destination known for its diverse natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and adventurous experiences. Bladen Nature Reserve trails and the Mayan ruins are some of the most popular tourist attractions in the country.” 

The report was compiled by the stock advisory firm Insider Monkey. 

These countries secured the top spots in the affordability rankings for US tourists due to their inexpensive flight fares and accommodation costs.

Joining Barbados and Belize on the list of wallet-friendly destinations are Aruba, the Dominican Republic, and Ecuador. On the contrary, the report identifies Costa Rica, Antigua and Barbuda, and the Cayman Islands as among the most expensive countries for visitors.

It’s worth noting that airfare and accommodation expenses can vary significantly based on the traveller’s departure point, destination city, and choice of lodging.

Mordo Intelligence predicts that US travellers will significantly contribute to Latin America’s tourism revenue, which is expected to reach approximately US$52.18 billion this year. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, international arrivals in Latin America have shown signs of recovery, with figures returning to 88% of pre-pandemic levels in 2023, as reported by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).

This resurgence in tourism is reflected in the financial performance of travel services provider Booking Holdings Inc. In the latest quarter, the company’s revenue surged by 18.15% to reach US$4.78 billion, exceeding market expectations by US$73.37 million.

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