By Belize Live News Staff: The Belize Tourism Board hosted its highly anticipated 2025 National Tourism Awards Gala on November 21, honoring the individuals and businesses driving excellence in Belize’s thriving tourism industry. The event highlighted outstanding contributions in guiding, hospitality, sustainability, cultural heritage, accommodations, and overall service delivery.
A keynote video message from Prime Minister John Briceño emphasized the vital role of tourism in national development, praising the resilience and innovation demonstrated by industry partners. This year’s winners were selected by a distinguished panel of judges: Kevin Geban, Karen Vernon, Einar Marin, Jamal Galvez, and Anoushka Brandl.
Among the evening’s major honorees were Caribbean Beach Cabanas (Small Accommodation of the Year), Naia Spa (Health & Wellness Provider of the Year), Palmento Grove Eco Cultural & Fishing Institute (Cultural Experience of the Year), and Elijio Panti National Park (Site of the Year). Stanley Longsworth Sr. received the Minister’s Award, recognizing exceptional service and long-standing dedication to the tourism sector.
The gala celebrated not only the winners but also the industry’s national achievements. Belize recorded a year of remarkable growth, surpassing 2019 visitor numbers with 562,405 overnight arrivals, demonstrating a powerful rebound post-COVID and the sector’s enduring strength. Local destinations and properties also earned international acclaim, with Ambergris Caye ranking among the Top 5 Islands in Central & South America, and Belizean resorts receiving accolades from Condé Nast Traveler and TripAdvisor.
Infrastructure projects, including the Mountain Pine Ridge–Caracol Road upgrade, coastal road improvements, and BTB-supported urban revitalization efforts such as the Mahogany Street Revitalization Project, continue to enhance community appeal and visitor experiences countrywide.
As Belize honored its best in tourism, the BTB reaffirmed its commitment to fostering innovation, supporting sustainability initiatives, and strengthening Belize’s position as a global leader in responsible, world-class travel.
