#AntiguaAndBarbuda Receives Prestigious Awards to Honor Travel Professionals, Community Leaders
Antigua and Barbuda recently celebrated a grand awards ceremony, recognizing the hard work and dedication of travel professionals, media partners, and community leaders who have significantly contributed to the destination’s growth and success. ### **Honoring the Pioneers**
The ceremony paid tribute to individuals who have made a lasting impact on Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism industry, including Ambassador Walton Webson, Permanent Representative to the United Nations. Senator Hon. Alincia Williams-Grant was also recognized for their outstanding contributions to the destination. ### **The Minister’s Remarks**
Minister of Tourism, the Honorable Molwyn Jose Fernandez, praised the honorees, stating, “Our success is driven by the passion, dedication, and hard work of these professionals who consistently go above and beyond in advocating for Antigua and Barbuda.”
He added, “We take great pride in celebrating their accomplishments and eagerly anticipate strengthening these vital partnerships.” Minister Fernandez also highlighted the late Honorable Rob Barrett, founder of Elite Island Resorts, and acknowledged his significant contributions to developing Antigua’s tourism industry. ### **Awards and Recognition**
The awards ceremony also recognized Elite Island Resorts’ team members, Larry Basham, Sherrie Ault, and John Cather, for their tremendous commitment to the industry’s growth. CEO Colin C. James commended the recipients, saying, “From the Travel Advisors and Public Relations Specialists, everyone honored, has played a crucial role in showcasing the magic of Antigua and Barbuda to the world.”
ABTA USA Director of Tourism, Dean Fenton, praised the recipients, saying, “I am extremely proud to recognize our exceptional business partners, whose unwavering support and dedication have played a significant role in elevating Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism industry.”
### **Notable Honorees**
Some of the distinguished honorees in attendance included:
* Brenda O’Neale, Travel Advisor and Chair of the Antigua & Barbuda Travel Agent Advisory Board
* Lila Nicholas, Travel Advisor and Chair of the Professional Travel Agents of North America (PATANA) National Advisory Board
* Brenda Cole, Travel Advisor and President of PATANA
* Corrine Mutarelli, Travel Advisor and Past President of the Alliance of Westchester Travel Agencies (AWTA)
* Ralph Vasami, President of Kiwanis Yonkers and former President of the New York American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA)
### **Industry Leaders and Community Champions**
Other notable honorees included Adrian Surgeon, Graphics and Design Specialist; Antiguan chefs Edward Murphy and Melvin Myers; Artistic Designer Dave Ray; Marilyn Pires, Travel Account Manager and Executive Assistant to ABTA USA Director Dean Fenton; Noel Mignott, founder of the Portfolio Marketing Group; and Alison Ross, a former partner at PMG. ### **Tourism Highlights**
Antigua and Barbuda offers visitors two uniquely distinct experiences, ideal temperatures year-round, a rich history, vibrant culture, exhilarating excursions, award-winning resorts, mouth-watering cuisine, and 365 stunning pink and white-sand beaches—one for every day of the year. The twin-island paradise is located in the heart of the Caribbean Sea, comprising 108 square miles with rich history and spectacular topography that provides a variety of popular sightseeing opportunities. Some of the top attractions include Nelson’s Dockyard, the only remaining example of a Georgian fort a listed UNESCO World Heritage site, and the annual Antigua Carnival, known as the Caribbean’s Greatest Summer Festival. ### **Getting Involved**
For more information on Antigua & Barbuda, visit visitantiguabarbuda.com or follow on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram. The island is also home to the largest Frigate Bird Sanctuary in the Western Hemisphere, making it a haven for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts. Barbuda is the ultimate celebrity hideaway, offering an untouched 11-mile stretch of pink sand beach and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for relaxation. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, Antigua and Barbuda has something for everyone. —
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Antigua and Barbuda, Caribbean Sea |
| Language | English, Antiguan Creole |
| Currency | East Caribbean dollar |
### **Fun Facts**
* Antigua and Barbuda has 365 pink-sand beaches, one for each day of the year. * The island is home to the largest Frigate Bird Sanctuary in the Western Hemisphere. * Antigua and Barbuda is the only English-speaking Leeward Island. * The island is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and breathtaking natural beauty. —
“Antigua and Barbuda is a true gem, with a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.
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