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UNWTO Awards

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UNWTO Awards

The UNWTO Awards are the flagship awards for the global tourism sector.

What are the UNWTO Awards?

Since 2003, the Awards recognize the work of organizations and individuals around the world that positively impact and inspire the tourism sector through innovation and knowledge.

To date, UNWTO has acknowledged the contribution of distinguished scholars, inspiring leaders, as well as more than 80 initiatives from the public and private sector as well as NGOs. Their achievements serve as an inspiration for competitive and sustainable tourism development at a local, national, regional and international level. The contributions of the awardees are in line with the  Global Code of Ethics for Tourism  and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals .

Recognition is given in the following categories:

The  UNWTO Ulysses Prize  is given to a distinguished scholar, whether in academia, government or private industry, for outstanding contributions to innovation and knowledge in tourism.

The  UNWTO  Awards merit distinction in four categories for the significant contribution of innovative tourism initiatives which are both competitive and sustainable in their character.

  • UNWTO Award in Public Policy and Governance:  An initiative is highly innovative and managed by a public or public-private institution that reflects tangible and sustainable improvements in policy, processes, and governance. It works towards an inclusive model of tourism governance which involves diverse tourism stakeholders.
  • UNWTO Award in Enterprises:  An initiative presented by an enterprise that operates projects or offers products or services that are innovative in the tourism field. This innovation could be demonstrated through environmentally-friendly applications, social corporate responsibility engagement and other innovative contributions.
  • UNWTO Award in Non-Governmental Organizations:  An initiative managed by a non-governmental organization with a clear non-profit scope using grassroots, partnership, governance, and/or civil society actions as key factors for its achievements. The initiative is original and inspiring in its nature, objectives, resource management and results, highlighting tourism as a strategic tool for balanced and sustainable development in economic, social and/or environmental aspects.
  • UNWTO Award in Research and Technology : The Award distinguishes a visionary pioneer whose initiative has helped the private sector, a community, a destination or a country to maximize the opportunities related to the use of technology to advance in the development of sustainable tourism. The research project or technological innovation initiative is highly inspirational and has given evidence of its effectiveness with practical applications and a measurable impact in the tourism sector. * *Note: This Award has been discontinued for 2018-2019.

The UNWTO Ethics Awards  is conferred by the World Committee on Tourism Ethics to tourism companies and trade associations that have demonstrated excellence in the implementation of the principles of the Global Code of Ethics of Tourism within their business operations and Corporate Social Responsibility practices. Application is limited to signatories of the Private Sector Commitment to the Code of Ethics. 

Applications received from more than 70 countries since the creation of the UNWTO Awards

Applications received from more than 70 countries

2003 : First edition of the UNWTO Ulysses Prize. Dr. Donald Hawkins, from the George Washington University (USA) was the first recipient of the UNWTO Ulysses Prize for Excellence in the Creation and Dissemination of Knowledge.

2006 : Two new award categories open up for specific tourism initiatives. The first award for Innovation in Public Policy and Governance was granted to Black Stone Valley (USA) while the first award for Innovation in Enterprise was awarded to ACCOR (France).

2007 : The award for Innovation in Non-Governmental Organizations is created to complement the two abovementioned award categories. It was granted to the Évora Tourism Region (Portugal).

2011 : The 2011 Awards Ceremony took place in the framework of the UNWTO Algarve Forum (Portugal); The Forum – intended to bridge theory and practice in tourism as an instrument for development and good governance – convened over 300 representatives from the private and public sector who were joined by prestigious academics to conclude several months of on-line discussion and establish a consensus on future tourism strategies.

2012 : The UNWTO Award for Lifetime Achievement and the UNWTO Ulysses Award for Innovation in Research and Technology are created. The first edition of the UNWTO Lifetime Achievement Award honored two eminent individuals from both public and private sectors - Mr. Shao Qiwei, Chairman of China National Tourism Administration and Mr. Gabriel Escarrer Juliá, Chairman and Founder of Melià Hotels International. The first winner of the UNWTO Ulysses Award for Innovation in Research and Technology was the Instituto de Biomecánica de Valencia (Spain). Upon the creation of these two categories, the previous UNWTO Ulysses Prize and Awards were rebranded UNWTO Awards for Excellence and Innovation in Tourism with different categories.

2013:  The UNWTO Awards were jointly hosted, for the first time, by UNWTO and the Madrid International Tourism Trade Fair (FITUR), a valued UNWTO Affiliate Member.

2016:   The UNWTO Ethics Award category is created, recognizing the excellent implementation of the principles of the Global Code of Ethics of Tourism. 

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Indiana Destination Development Corporation Awards & Grant Information

The Indiana Destination Development Corporation (IDDC, Indiana Tourism) offers grants to cities, towns, counties, nonprofit entities and others located in Indiana that are involved with tourism promotion and development. Projects that contribute to the development and improvement of local economies and communities throughout Indiana by means of enhancing, expanding and promoting the visitor industry are eligible to receive funding.

Grant Programs

2024 indiana destination development grants & in indiana placemaking activation grants.

The Indiana Destination Development Grant seeks to fund high-impact projects that raise Indiana’s capacity for attracting visitors and providing new and unique tourism experiences, while enhancing the quality of life for residents. The IN Indiana Placemaking Activation Grant looks to create community activations of the IN Indiana identifier throughout the state of Indiana. Applications must be submitted by February 2, 2024. 

All materials must be submitted by February 2, 2024, as one complete PDF document to  [email protected]  for consideration.

Indiana Destination Development Grants

  • Indiana Destination Development Grant Guidelines & Timeline 
  • Indiana Destination Development Grant Application 
  • State-Approved W-9 Tax Identification Form
  • Direct Deposit Form

Read about prior winning destination development grant projects:  2017 ,  2018 ,  2019 ,  2020 ,  2021

IN Indiana Placemaking Activation Grants

  • IN Indiana Placemaking Activation Grant Guidelines & Timeline
  • IN Indiana Placemaking Activation Grant Application

All materials must be submitted by February 2, 2024, as one complete PDF document to  [email protected]  for consideration.

Grant Informational Webinar Held 10/25

Learn more about the Indiana Destination Development Grant and the IN Indiana Placemaking Activation Grant by watching our informational webinar above from October 25, 2023. Use the link below to view the slides from the webinar.

Team Indiana Grant Opportunities

Sports Tourism Business Development Grants are available for tourism or sports-related organizations hosting events in Indiana. The purpose of these funds is to support, enhance, and grow sporting events as well as strengthen bids to attract new business to Indiana. The maximum grant per event is $20,000 to be paid as a reimbursement. Support from the Indiana Office of Tourism Development and Indiana Sports Corp make this grant program possible.

Team Indiana Grant Program >

Team Indiana Grant Guidelines >

Team Indiana Grant Application >

Tourism Awards

Will koch tourism leadership, visit indiana leadership & hoosier hospitality awards.

The IDDC awards program will be held on Monday, October 30, 2023, at the Eiteljorg.

Will Koch Indiana Tourism Leadership Award Nomination Form

Named after the late Will Koch, long-time owner and president of Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari and chief executive officer of its parent company, Koch Development Corporation, the award honors Mr. Koch’s devotion to business and community and his lasting impact on the State of Indiana. A deserving Hoosier who demonstrates the following qualities will receive the award each year.

Leadership qualities and the ability to inspire others;

Entrepreneurial spirit and willingness to invest in Indiana;

Commitment to tourism and business development in Indiana;

Dedication to improving Indiana’s travel and tourism profile; and

Distinguished Service to the community.

Visit Indiana Leadership Award Nomination Form

This award is designed for individuals who have stepped forward and provided exemplary service and leadership to the tourism industry in Indiana. The individual also sees the importance of developing and promoting Indiana's tourism industry and is an active participant in leading the industry forward in their community. This award is for people who work with and in the field supporting the industry and are leaders in their communities. Frontline workers are not eligible.

Hoosier Hospitality Award Nomination Form

These awards are presented by the Lt. Governor and recognize a high level of service in tourism-related jobs at hotels, restaurants, attractions and other destinations. This includes tour guides, volunteers, ushers, etc. ANYONE in the hospitality and tourism industry.

See our 2023 winners here!

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Sweet Home Alabama

Alabama Tourism Department

The official site for industry professionals

  • Alabama Tourism Department recognizes industry leaders

September 2, 2022

(Auburn, Ala.) The Alabama Tourism Department recognized its 2022 award winners during the 2022 Alabama Governor’s Conference on Tourism, held on location at The Hotel at Auburn University and Dixon Conference Center. Winners include Darley Newman with “Travels with Darley” for Tourism Advocate Year – Media, Orion Amphitheatre and Muscle Shoals Sound Studio as Tourism Partnership of the Year award, and Eva Golson, recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award. Thirteen awards were presented in total.

Other award winners include Jubilee Festival of the Arts, Event of the Year; Senator Clay Scofield, Government Tourism Advocate of the Year; Andrew Felts, Rising Star; Rhonda Davis, Tourism Employee of the Year; Lake Martin Tourism Association, Tourism Organization of the Year: Danielle Gibson, Tourism Executive of the Year; Rick Harmon, Alabama Tourism Department Employee of the Year; Lanett Welcome, Welcome Center of the Year; John Wild, Alabama Tourism Hall of Fame; and Carol McElheney, Governor’s Award.

“We have incredibly strong tourism industry professionals in Alabama, and those recognized this year are no exception,” said Lee Sentell, director Alabama Tourism Department.   “Their unwavering leadership and dedication continues to elevate Alabama as one of the go-to destinations in America. We are proud to recognize the people and organizations that contribute to the success of tourism in the state.”

Noticeably present at the awards banquet was Grammy Award-winner Ben Lovett, founding member of the band Mumford and Sons. Lovett was the inspiration and guiding force in creating and designing the Orion Amphitheater. His vision to celebrate the rich music heritage of North Alabama led to the Orion’s construction in the Huntsville area.

Below are the brief biographies of each winner. Photos can be found at the following link: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/cxdj3w4zyi038bswb5bow/h?dl=0&rlkey=n3w2e84f7vwbh2mh9l4jdwfld

Eva Golson, CEO of Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism ,  is the winner of the Lifetime Achievement Award. 

Eva Golson has served as the director of the Mobile Film Office since its creation in 2001 as the first local film office in the state of Alabama. Golson first began her work to establish Mobile as a leading site for the film industry in 1976. She championed incentive plans to attract film production, opening the door for Mobile to be centerpiece for hundreds of films and television productions. She has been a life-long member of the Public Relations Council of Alabama’s Mobile Chapter and the Southern Public Relations Federation. PRCA honored her service and leadership by naming her the state’s 1980 Practitioner of the Year. Golson has been honored by two sitting governors and was inducted into the Alabama Tourism Hall of Fame. She also served in leadership roles of the Southeast Tourism Society, Alabama Travel Council, Mobile Press Club and was instrumental in starting the Mobile Pops Symphony.

Darley Newman, Emmy Award-winning PBS host of “Travels with Darley,” is recognized as the Tourism Advocate Media of the Year Award .

Recognized in Forbes Magazine for her PBS travel empire, Darley Newman is an entrepreneur, TV host, writer, producer and Emmy Award-winner.  Through her production companies, Newman has channeled her passions for travel and storytelling into successful multi-platform series and distinctive media brands. She is the creator, producer and host of Emmy Award-winning “Equitrekking” and “Travels with Darley” on PBS, Amazon Prime, Ovation TV and networks in over 85 nations.

Newman has received the North American Travel Journalist Award, the Inspiring Woman Award from Women in Philanthropy and Leadership, two Telly Awards and was inducted into the Taste Awards Hall of Fame. She’s launched and built successful businesses to spur and measure tourism and economic development including “Darley Vacations” in partnership with a Virtuoso travel agency and written an award-winning travel book.

In 2023, Newman will celebrate the 10th anniversary season of “Travels with Darley” and a new series, “Look Up,” that centers on architecture and history.

Jubilee Festival of the Arts   is Event of the Year.

For more than 33 years, the Jubilee Festival of Arts has showcased hundreds of local and regional artists to residents and tourists in the charming setting of Daphne, Alabama. With each year, the event has grown and responded to the changing landscape, prevailing through hurricanes and the pandemic. Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce has championed the local community and empowered artisans and vendors alike to maintain their craft and livelihood over three decades. It is a family-friendly event, ideal for patrons of all ages. The 34th annual Jubilee Festival of Arts will take place Oct. 15 and 16 in Olde Towne Daphne. This new location will support more than 130 local and regional artists, local food makers in the Jubilee Market, entertainers and a Kids Art area.

Alabama State Senator Clay Scofield is the winner of the Government Advocate Award of the Year. 

Originally from Cullman, Alabama, Senator Clay Scofield was first elected to the Senate on Nov. 2, 2010. Senator Scofield was elected by his colleagues in November 2020 to serve as the Majority Leader for the Senate Republican Caucus. Senator Scofield received his Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, Business and Economics

from Auburn University, and he is a third-generation farmer. In June 2021, Senator Scofield was elected chair of The Alabama Digital Expansion Authority, which is responsible for advising, reviewing and approving a statewide broadband connectivity plan as outlined in the Connect Alabama Act of 2021. A member of the Church of Christ, Senator Scofield’s interests include hunting and other outdoor activities. He resides in Arab with his family.

This is the second year is a row that Senator Scofield has been recognized for creating a constitutional amendment that benefits the Alabama State Park system.

Andrew Felts, Public Relations Manager at Visit Mobile, is the Rising Star of the Year.

Andrew Felts is the Communications and Public Relations Manager at Visit Mobile where he strives to build excitement for his destination among journalists and the public alike.

Felts relocated to the city to attend the University of Mobile where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Communications with a concentration in public relations. Growing from the rich foundations at the university, Felts, developed a love for the community at large – cementing his desire to stay in Mobile and make it home. Felts joined the Visit Mobile team in January 2021.

He remains very active in the Mobile community and serves as Vice President of Programming for Young Professionals of Mobile. He is also pursuing his tourism marketing professional certification through Southeast Tourism Society Marketing College.

  Rhonda Davis, USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, is the Tourism Employee of the Year. 

Rhonda Davis works as the Director of Sales and Marketing at Battleship Memorial Park, a position she has held since 2015. And yes, her office is aboard the battleship. Davis has an extensive background in public relations, special events, non- profit management and historic preservation. She holds a BA degree from the University of South Alabama in Communication Arts and is certified by the National Trust for Historic Preservation as a National Main Street Manager. Davis is a member of the board of directors for the Alabama Travel Council, Alabama Historical Association and serves on the advisory board for the University of South Alabama Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management. She is past president of the Alabama

Trust for Historic Preservation and is a sustaining member of the Junior League of Mobile. Davis credits her parents for her love of Alabama. As a child, her family explored every corner of the state, visiting historic sites, attractions and parks.

Danielle Gibson is executive director of Visit Decatur the Tourism Executive of the Year.

Over the last four years, Danielle Gibson has been President/CEO of Decatur Morgan County Tourism. Before her current role, Gibson worked in the insurance industry until pivoting to more community- focused positions. She acted as President of the Hartselle Area Chamber of Commerce and was on the Board of Directors for Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association.

Gibson is a Decatur Morgan County Excellence in Leadership graduate and a Rotarian. She currently serves as the Incoming Chairwoman of the Board of Directors for the Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association, the River Clay Fine Arts Festival Board of Directors, and Celebrating Early Old Town with Art Board of Directors. Gibson is graduate of The University of North Alabama where she earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree and has called Decatur home over the last 15 years with her husband, Jesse, and two children, Noah and Cohen.

Lake Martin Tourism Association is the Tourism Organization of the Year. 

The Lake Martin Tourism Association works to promote and showcase Alabama’s Freshwater Coast. Touted as “Alabama’s biggest playground,” tourists can expect an unrivaled lake experience of 900 miles of shoreline and 40,000 acres of stunning views, nestled against thick wooded forest, and historic downtown Alexander City. The charm and accessibility of Lake Martin has earned it a reputation as being one of the finest lake destinations of the South, offering unique fishing opportunities as well as soft adventure in the surrounding parks, marinas, points and islands.

Lake Martin Tourism Association was founded by 12 board members in 2019. In three years, despite the pandemic, The Lake Martin Tourism Association has increased visitation and lodging collections and established new assets, like the Lake Martin Hiking Challenge, showcasing the abundant natural resources of the area. These efforts have helped position Lake Martin as a year-round destination where tranquility and relaxation are always on the menu.

Rick Harmon is the Alabama Tourism Department Employee of the Year.

Rick Harmon spent more than 30 years in journalism before joining the Alabama Tourism Department in 2015 as Publications Director. Harmon is a graduate of Auburn University, where he was editor of the campus newspaper, The Auburn Plainsman. Following his collegiate years, Harmon worked for several Alabama publications before landing at the Montgomery Advertiser, where he spent a majority of his career. After beginning as a court reporter, he be- came a columnist, features editor, government and business editor and then news editor.

Harmon has led a long and distinguished career and is the recipient of the National Association of Black Journalists award for best enterprise or investigative series. He has been recognized numerous times by Alabama Associated Press Media Editors Awards and by the Alabama Press Association. Lee Sentell said he also based the Hank Williams Trail on a different series Harmon wrote at the Advertiser. As features editor, he was presented the Alabama Tourism Department’s Tourism Advocate Media Award. Since joining ATD, Harmon has edited most of the department’s publications, including the Alabama Vacation Guide, and is working on a book on the Muscle Shoals Sound Studio.

  The Lanett Welcome Center is the Welcome Center of the Year. 

After two years and a lot of planning, Governor Kay Ivey cut the ribbon on the new Lanett Welcome Center on Jan. 14, 2022. The state-of-the-art center is 16,000 sq. foot and is Alabama’s new front door for those traveling in from Georgia on Interstate 85. The bricks, sidewalks and sod show much more than a welcome center; it is a sign of major economic progress in Alabama. The new standard set by the Lanett Welcome Center will be the template for what’s to come across the state.

The Orion Amphitheatre and the Muscle Shoals Sound Studio are the recipients of the Tourism Partnership of the Year Award.

The Orion Amphitheatre in Huntsville is the first venue venture for Ben Lovett, of Mumford and Sons fame. His vision was to not only create a state-of-the-art performance space, but to also nurture the Huntsville community and build on North Alabama’s renowned musical legacy. The 8,000-seat venue opened in May 2022 and has since announced national headlining acts along with community events. With its proximity to the iconic Muscle Shoals Sound Studio, Huntsville enjoys its status as part of the Americana Music Triangle, known for its cultural achievement as the birthplace of one of our country’s greatest exports, music – particularly blues, soul and rock’n’roll. Lovett, a huge fan of Muscle Shoals music, anticipated that the amphitheater will also be used to highlight the musical talent and history of the Shoals.

Just 80 miles away from Huntsville’s Orion is the Muscle Shoals Sound Studio at 3614 Jackson Highway – an address synonymous with music royalty. It was founded in 1969 by four members of FAME’s Rhythm Section. Those legendary studio musicians became known as “The Swampers” and played with musical titans including Bob Dylan, Rod Stewart, Aretha Franklin, Paul Simon, Bob Seger, and so many more. The restored studio is a music mecca, drawing visitors from around the world. Music history buffs say they want to see and feel why Keith Richards of the Rolling Stones referred to Muscle Shoals as “Rock and Roll Heaven.” The 2013 documentary, “Muscle Shoals,” revived interest in the studio for music enthusiasts and the music industry. In 2017, the studio was fully restored to its 1970’s look, thanks to a grant from Beats Electronics.

John Wild is the 2022 Alabama Tourism Hall of Fame inductee.

John Wild worked in the hospitality and tourism industry for 40 years and recently retired from his role as president of Auburn-Opelika Tourism (AOT) after 19 years of leading the organization. Under Wild’s leadership, AOT saw enormous growth in visitation and economic impact. Before joining AOT, Wild managed the Auburn University Hotel & Dixon Conference Center. He has been involved in the community and has served on the boards of many local and industry organizations including the Auburn Rotary Club, United Way of Lee County, and the Alabama Association of Convention and Visitors Bureaus. Wild is an avid photographer and enjoys photographing many local events and taking sports photos for the Auburn Villager. Hiking in the mountains or on trails out West with his camera is a favorite hobby and a skill he plans to continue developing in retirement.

Carol McElheney is the Governor’s Award winner.

Carol McElheney is Regional Vice President of Operations with Hudson, the largest travel retailer in the world and leads Hudson teams in the Atlanta, Birmingham, Greenville, Jackson, Mobile, Myrtle Beach and Raleigh airports.

McElheney has been with Hudson for 10 years and continues to thrive in her role. Her previous experiences also include 20 years in the Food & Beverage industry.

She is a change-agent and the recipient of several awards in recognition for business development and innovation. McElheney has demonstrated her proven abilities to craft and facilitate creative business solutions, resulting in major improvements in operating plans and new revenue gains. She is passionate about serving and helping people and proudly commits to ensuring her team members are trained, mentored and championed for personal and professional growth opportunities.

McElheney has a fervent passion for the South, especially the great state of Alabama. In her spare time, her personal interests include mentoring young people and reading – mostly business and industry literature.

She credits her two adult children, Tru and Chaunice, as her constant source of inspiration.

Contact : Andi Martin, Public Relations Manager

[email protected] , 334-242-4537

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  • ALABAMA TOURISM INDUSTRY GROWS NEAR RECORD $17 BILLION
  • Alabama’s travel industry survived pandemic better than 45 other states

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Travel, Tourism and Outdoor Recreation Frequently Asked Questions

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State Tourism Grants

  • How can States apply for the State Tourism Grants?
  • Does the Governor’s designation of an entity to receive the State’s travel and tourism grant require EDA approval?
  • What is the deadline to apply for the EDA State Tourism Grant?
  • What are the eligible uses of State Tourism Grants?
  • Is there a match rate requirement for State Tourism Grants?
  • The Notice of Funding Opportunity says that projects that support community/regional tourism marketing and promotion campaigns are allowable uses of State Tourism Grants, but that messaging “must be consistent with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) COVID-19 guidelines.” What does that mean?
  • What are the expectations if a State chooses to make a subaward?

Competitive Tourism Grants

  • Who is eligible for a competitive Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation grant?
  • What types of projects are eligible for funding under the EDA Competitive Tourism Grant component?
  • Is there a match rate requirement for EDA Competitive Tourism Grants?
  • Can we use Department of the Treasury State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFR Funds) for the local share of EDA ARPA projects?

General Questions

  • What key differences should I be aware of when applying for an EDA grant under the American Rescue Plan funding compared to a typical EDA Economic Adjustment Assistance application?
  • What does Equity mean in the context of the Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation programs?
  • My organization submitted a grant application but was not selected for funding under the CARES Act. Can we resubmit our application under the American Rescue Plan funding?
  • How can I submit my application for EDA funding?
  • What is the deadline to submit my application?
  • Are projects to support zoos and aquariums eligible for funding under the Travel, Tourism and Outdoor Recreation Notice of Funding Opportunity?
  • Do the activities proposed under the Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation NOFO have to be aligned with a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS)?
  • How do I locate the applicable CEDS for my region? May we still apply if our region does not have a CEDS?
  • The Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation NOFO says that projects that support upgrades or retrofits to existing travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation infrastructure must make such infrastructure more functional under pandemic social distancing conditions (e.g., consistent with CDC guidelines). What does that mean?
  • What should I do if I have additional questions not answered in this FAQ?

STATE TOURISM GRANTS

1. how can states apply for the state tourism grants.

EDA will send invitation letters to the Governor’s Office (or equivalent) of each State, the District of Columbia, and EDA-covered territories 1 , inviting them to apply for the grant funding. There is no other way to apply for State Tourism Grants.

Each State’s governor may designate a State agency or eligible entity to receive the grant. States are permitted to spend the awards or to subaward the funds on a competitive basis.

2. Does the Governor’s designation of an entity to receive the State’s travel and tourism grant require EDA approval?

EDA will review the Governor’s (or equivalent’s) designation of a recipient for the State’s travel and tourism grant only to confirm that the designated entity is eligible to receive EDA funding. As long as the designated entity is eligible, EDA will accept the selection.

Eligible applicants include:

  • District Organizations of EDA-designated Economic Development Districts (EDDs)
  • Indian Tribes, which include Federally-recognized Indian Tribes and any Alaska Native Village or Regional Corporation (as defined in or established under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (43 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.) 2
  • State and Local governments or political subdivisions, including special purpose units of State or local government engaged in economic or infrastructure development activities, which may include regional water and sewer districts, airport commissions, and regional economic development commissions
  • Institutions of higher education
  • Public or private nonprofit organizations or associations working in cooperation with officials of a general purpose political subdivision of a State (e.g., a city, town, or county)

3. What is the deadline to apply for the EDA State Tourism Grant?

Applications must be received within 60 days of EDA’s letter to the Governor inviting the State to apply. Any State that requires an extension of the application deadline should contact the EDA Representative for that State identified at  www.eda.gov/contact/ .

4. What are the eligible uses of State Tourism Grants?

State tourism grants can be used for:

  • State, county, city, or community/regional tourism marketing and promotion campaigns, including through nonprofit Destination Marketing Organizations (DMO).
  • Workforce training that supports the travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation industries and improves the skills and job opportunities for workers.
  • Short-term and long-term economic development planning and coordination to respond to the effects of the coronavirus pandemic on the regional travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation industry.
  • Technical assistance projects to assist regional economies to recover from damage to the travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation industries, including technical assistance to businesses and entrepreneurs to respond to changes to those industries brought about by the coronavirus pandemic.
  • Upgrades or retrofits to existing travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation infrastructure, such as convention centers, to increase travel/tourism activity or to make such infrastructure more functional under pandemic social distancing conditions (may include general accessibility upgrades, like disability access).
  • Infrastructure projects that lead to long-term increases in tourist activity in a region, including in communities adjacent to National Park Service units, State Parks, National Marine Sanctuaries, and other natural destinations, and nature-based infrastructure projects and projects enhancing public access to outdoor recreational opportunities.
  • Other uses to support the travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation industries as approved by EDA.

All projects  must  support the travel, tourism, or outdoor recreation sectors and be consistent with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines for safe travel. Please see section A.1.a of the Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for additional details.

5. Is there a match rate requirement for State Tourism Grants?

All awards to States for State Tourism Grants will be made at a 100% grant rate; no matching funds are required.

6. The Notice of Funding Opportunity says that projects that support community/regional tourism marketing and promotion campaigns are allowable uses of State Tourism Grants, but that messaging “must be consistent with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) COVID-19 guidelines.” What does that mean?

Marketing materials funded in whole or in part through an EDA grant may not convey messages that are inconsistent with any CDC COVID-19 guidelines in effect at the time the materials are published. Examples of potentially relevant topics on which the CDC has previously issued guidelines include crowd size, interstate and international travel, and personal precautions, such as masking. It is the responsibility of recipients to monitor changing CDC guidelines and update their marketing and promotional materials as necessary. More information can be found at  https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html .

7. What are the expectations if a State chooses to make a subaward?

If a State chooses to make subawards, the State will be responsible for competing, awarding, and monitoring those subawards, including ensuring compliance with all federal requirements:

  • For non-construction subawards, EDA will confirm that the scope of work for the subaward is allowable.
  • For construction subawards, EDA will: (1) confirm that the scope of work for the subaward is allowable and (2) make determinations under federal environmental requirements, including the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA). States will be responsible for collecting and providing the information necessary for EDA to complete required environmental reviews. In addition, projects will be subject to federal real property requirements, which means that the project must be owned by an eligible recipient and such recipient will be required to record a statement of EDA’s interest in real property acquired or improved under an award in the relevant real property records. Other requirements and reporting may be required. Note that all EDA-funded construction projects are subject to Davis-Bacon prevailing wage requirements.

COMPETITIVE TOURISM GRANTS

1. who is eligible for a competitive travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation grant.

Eligible applicants for competitive Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation grants include:

  • Indian Tribes, which include Federally-recognized Indian Tribes and any Alaska Native Village or Regional Corporation (as defined in or established under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (43 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.) 3
  • State and Local governments or political subdivisions, including special purpose units of State or local government engaged in economic or infrastructure development activities, such as port authorities, airport commissions, and regional economic development commissions

2. What types of projects are eligible for funding under the EDA Competitive Tourism Grant component?

Eligible projects include construction and non-construction projects that support the travel, tourism, or outdoor recreation sectors. For the most part, this component is intended to fund projects that are focused on new and expanded infrastructure, projects with a multi-State or national focus, and projects in regions most adversely affected by damage to the travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation sectors from the coronavirus pandemic. Projects that would support economic diversification in communities overly reliant on the travel and tourism industry are permitted, but projects that directly support the industry are preferred and will be prioritized.

State and local tourism promotion and marketing projects are  not eligible  under the competitive tourism grants component. However, country-wide or multi-state travel, tourism, or outdoor recreation promotion activities are eligible for funding. Section A.1.c of the NOFO for additional details.

3. Is there a match rate requirement for EDA Competitive Tourism Grants?

EDA expects to fund at least 80% of project costs through the Competitive Tourism Grants. EDA may increase the federal share up to 100% on a case-by-case basis depending on whether the circumstances of the proposed project warrant a federal share in excess of 80%, including whether the applicant has exhausted its effective taxing or borrowing capacity; the extent of the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the region’s travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation; or whether the region meets other thresholds for elevated need based on the relative economic distress of the region. Projects providing higher levels of match may be more competitive.

4. Can we use Department of the Treasury State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFR Funds) for the local share of EDA ARPA projects?

Yes, subject to the following limitations: Only the portion of an applicant’s SLFR Funds that is available for “the provision of government services” may be used as match on an EDA award. That amount is determined in accordance with  Treasury’s recently published regulations  and is based on a state or locality’s reduction in revenue due to the COVID-19 public health emergency. The portion of SLFR Funds that is not available for the provision of government services may not be used as match. Applicants should direct questions regarding calculating the government services portion of their SLFR Funds to the Treasury; EDA cannot assist with that calculation.

All applicants seeking to apply SLFR Funds to the local share must certify in their match letter to EDA that (1) there are sufficient government services funds available and (2) the pledged funds are committed to the EDA project. Applicants must also agree that if SLFR Funds subsequently become unavailable for any reason that they will replace those funds with other allowable sources of local match. Please note that under Treasury’s regulations, all SLFR Funds must be obligated by December 31, 2024 and expended by December 31, 2026.

GENERAL QUESTIONS

1. what key differences should i be aware of when applying for an eda grant under the american rescue plan funding compared to a typical eda economic adjustment assistance application.

In question B.8 on the ED-900 form, applicants must outline the steps that they will take to ensure that economic benefits of the project will be shared by all communities in the project region, including any underserved communities.

For construction projects only, applicants must explain in question B.2 on the ED-900 form whether, and if so how, the project will incorporate strong labor standards, including project labor agreements and community benefit agreements, that offer wages at or above the prevailing rate and include local hire provisions, and a description of the applicant’s workforce plans and practices.

2. What does Equity mean in the context of the Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation programs?

Equity is defined in  EDA’s Investment Priorities  as projects or programs that that directly benefit:

  • one or more traditionally  underserved populations  (PDF), including but not limited to women, Black, Latino, and Indigenous and Native American persons, Asian Americans, and Pacific Islanders; or
  • underserved communities within geographies that have been systemically and/or systematically denied a full opportunity to participate in aspects of economic prosperity such as Tribal Lands,  Persistent Poverty Counties  (XLSX), and rural areas with demonstrated, historical underservice.

For more information on these populations and geographies see:  https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/01/20/executive-order-advancing-racial-equity-and-support-for-underserved-communities-through-the-federal-government/ .

3. My organization submitted a grant application but was not selected for funding under the CARES Act. Can we resubmit our application under the American Rescue Plan funding?

An applicant that submitted an application that was not funded under the CARES Act can resubmit with a letter to EDA requesting a review under the Competitive Tourism Grants portion of the Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation NOFO. The letter must contain a certification that the project is unchanged and that all matching funds remain available. If there are any changes to the application, applicants must submit a new application.

Applicants should note that the evaluation criteria for this program are different than that under EDA’s CARES program and EDA will be using the new criteria. Applicants may choose to adjust their applications accordingly and submit the application again through  www.grants.gov . See section E.1.a of the NOFO for additional information on this program’s evaluation criteria.

EDA will reconsider your application for funding under the new Investment Priorities; applicants may choose to adjust their applications accordingly and submit again through  www.grants.gov . All applications for CARES Act funding were required to demonstrate that they were aligned with EDA’s “Recovery and Resilience” investment priority, and because “Recovery and Resilience” remains an investment priority, applicants should not be adversely affected by the change in investment priorities.

Please visit EDA's Funding Opportunities site for additional details on project eligibility requirements.

4. How can I submit my application for EDA funding?

All EDA NOFOs and application forms are posted at  www.grants.gov , and can be accessed either by searching  www.grants.gov  for the funding opportunity you would like, or accessing the link directly through EDA's Funding Opportunities site.

Before applying for EDA funding, an organization must take several steps to obtain credentials and register with several systems that may require 25 or more business days to complete. The technical requirements and systems associated with generating these credentials require confirmation at each step and the process can be lengthy—especially for organizations without an employer identification number (EIN) —and require interaction with multiple organizations outside of EDA.

EDA strongly encourages applicants in the process of forming or that have formed but are not yet registered on  www.grants.gov , to do so as soon as possible.

5. What is the deadline to submit my application?

While EDA will accept applications on a rolling basis under the American Rescue Plan Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation Notice of Funding Opportunity, the American Rescue Plan requires EDA to award funds by September 30, 2022. EDA plans to accept and award grant applications subject to the availability of funds.

EDA encourages eligible applicants to submit their applications as soon as possible, and strongly advises eligible applicants to submit complete applications no later than  January 31, 2022  so that EDA can review and process the application in time to get a potential award in place prior to deadlines imposed by Congress.  Submission by January 31, 2022 is not a guarantee of funding . Any award is subject to the availability of funds.

Please note that other American Rescue Plan programs do have application deadlines, which are set out in the Notice of Funding Opportunity specific to each program. Please visit EDA's Funding Opportunities site for details on each program’s deadline.

EDA strongly encourages applicants to submit applications early and not wait until the application deadline.

6. Are projects to support zoos and aquariums eligible for funding under the Travel, Tourism and Outdoor Recreation Notice of Funding Opportunity?

Yes. For the Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation NOFO only, EDA has suspended its policy against funding projects related to zoos and aquariums.

7. Do the activities proposed under the Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation NOFO have to be aligned with a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS)?

Yes, each project funded under the Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation NOFO must be consistent with the current  Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy  (CEDS) or  equivalent  EDA-accepted regional economic development strategy for the region or regions served by the proposed project.

A CEDS is a strategy-driven plan for regional economic development, typically prepared by an EDA-designated Economic Development District (EDD) organization, to guide capacity building efforts that best serve economic development in the region. Documents for consideration as a CEDS equivalent can include various regional economic development plans (or a combination of plans), including but not limited to regional comprehensive plans, regional resilience plans, or recovery plans.

Each application for the Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation NOFO should include in their application a discussion of how the project will support the economic development needs and objectives outlined in the appliable CEDS or equivalent strategy(ies). Applicants may also include letters of support from organizations that prepare CEDS or equivalent plans for areas that will be served by the proposed system and/or project.

8. How do I locate the applicable CEDS for my region? May we still apply if our region does not have a CEDS?

EDA supports the  CEDS Resource Library  where applicants can determine whether their region is served by an Economic Development District (EDD) organization and locate its most recent CEDS.

Applicants may contact the EDA Representative for their area listed at  www.eda.gov/contacts/  for assistance to locate the applicable CEDS or equivalent plan(s). Applicants from geographies that are not covered by an EDD are encouraged to reach out to their regional EDA Representative to help determine a CEDS-equivalent.

9. The Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation NOFO says that projects that support upgrades or retrofits to existing travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation infrastructure must make such infrastructure more functional under pandemic social distancing conditions (e.g., consistent with CDC guidelines). What does that mean?

Projects to upgrade/retrofit infrastructure are eligible if they are designed to enable the use of those facilities in a manner that is consistent with CDC guidelines on pandemic safety, e.g., social distancing. Projects that are directed at upgrading or retrofitting infrastructure to increase travel or tourism activity are also eligible, even if they do not specifically facilitate compliance with CDC guidelines.

10. What should I do if I have additional questions not answered in this FAQ?

  • Email your questions to EDA’s Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation inbox:  [email protected]
  • Connect with your Economic Development Representative. Contact information can be found at:  www.eda.gov/contacts/
  • Find your Economic Development District for planning support and technical assistance.

1.  EDA-covered territories are inclusive of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of Palau.

2.  Please note that this includes the governing body of a Tribe, non-profit Indian corporation (restricted to Indians), Indian authority, or other non-profit Indian Tribal organization or entity; provided that the Indian Tribal organization or entity is wholly owned by, and established for the benefit of, the Indian Tribe or Alaska Native Village.

3.  Please note that this includes the governing body of a Tribe, non-profit Indian corporation (restricted to Indians), Indian authority, or other non-profit Indian Tribal organization or entity; provided that the Indian Tribal organization or entity is wholly owned by, and established for the benefit of, the Indian Tribe or Alaska Native Village.

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government tourism awards

2024 Governor’s Conference

Plan your trip to Hattiesburg !

Wednesday, October 2, 2024

2:30 – 5:30 p.m. Excellence in Tourism Leadership Program Session * Session for those already enrolled in the ETLP program *

3:00 – 6:00 p.m. Exhibitor Set-Up & Registration & Silent Auction Item Drop Off Lakeview Prefunction

6:00 – 7:00 p.m. New Member and First-Timer Attendee Reception Hattiesburg Zoo    Sponsored by TBD

7:00 – 9:00 p.m. Opening Reception Hattiesburg Zoo Sponsored by Visit Hattiesburg

9:00 until After Hours Social The Brass Hat Sponsored by TBD

Thursday, October 3, 2024

All conference programming will be held at Lake Terrace Convention Center.

8:00 a.m. Exhibits Open

8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Registration Lakeview Prefunction

8:00 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. Breakfast Exhibit Hall A Sponsored by TBD

8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.  Opening Session: TBD Lakeview Sponsored by TBD

10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.  Bloody Mary Break & Media Visits Central Prefunction and Exhibit Hall B & C Sponsored by Maris, West & Baker

10:45 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.  General Session: TBD Lakeview Sponsored by TBD

12:00 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.  Luncheon: TBD Exhibit Hall A Sponsored by TBD

1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Breakout Session: TBD Lamar

1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Breakout Session: TBD Garden Room

2:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.  Break & Media Visits Central Prefunction and Exhibit Hall B & C Sponsored by TBD

3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Immersive Breakout Session: TBD

5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. 2024 Host Sponsor Reception The Lucky Rabbit Sponsored by Visit Vicksburg

7:00 p.m. Dine Around Meridian

Friday, October 4, 2024

8:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. Breakfast Exhibit Hall A Sponsored by TBD

10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Closing Session: TBD Lakeview Sponsored by TBD

  • EXHIBITOR REGISTRATION

Registration is closed!

Exhibitor registration for the 2023 Governor’s Conference on Tourism is now open. If you signed up at the beginning of the 2024 year as a Media Partner, please contact Jennie Guido to confirm your number of attendees included, if you need to add more attendees and receipt of payment.

Registration fee is $1,000 and ends August 30, 2024. This fee includes booth space with skirted table, identification signage, & conference registration for 1 company representative.  For guaranteed booth space and inclusion on all collateral you must register by August 30, 2024 .

  • ATTENDEE REGISTRATION

Registration is open.

Registration to attend the 2024 Governor’s Conference on Tourism is not open YET!

If you have questions regarding the conference, contact Danielle Morgan by email or phone at 601.605.1825.

Accommodations

The hotel blocks for this conference are not available YET.

  • SILENT AUCTION

• Consulting and creative services

To submit items for the silent auction, fill out the form here.

  • AWARDS - Nominations are closed!

Call for Entries

Eligibility: Any individual or organization meeting the specific awards criteria may be nominated. Projects and promotions must have been completed between June 1, 2023, and May 31, 2024, except for the Governmental Tourism Leadership Award, MTA Member of the Year and The Tourism Achievement Award. These awards may include projects and achievement that span a long period of time over a person’s career and their support of Mississippi tourism.

Who May Submit Nominations: Members or employees of the following organizations: Bed & Breakfast Association of MS, MS Convention & Visitors Bureaus, MS Chambers of Commerce, MS Hotel & Lodging Association, MS Hospitality & Restaurant Association, MS Gaming & Hospitality Association, MS Department of Wildlife, Fisheries & Parks, MS Development Authority Division of Tourism, MS Main Street Association, MS Tourism Association, MS Welcome Centers, Museums/Attractions and Fairs/Festivals.

Judging Criteria: Entries are judged by a panel of industry peers. Decisions by the judges are final. Failure to follow the entry format will result in disqualification.

Entry Format: Please provide a written overview, on 2 pages or less, of the following information.

  • Title of award nomination, include category if applicable
  • Name of organization or person nominated
  • Overview of the nominee’s accomplishments and how they relate to the advancement of tourism in Mississippi and the award criteria
  • Description of programs initiated or implemented after June 1, 2023 – May 31, 2024.
  • Special recognition or awards received.
  • Other factors making the nominee a valuable asset to the Mississippi tourism industry.
  • A brief biography.
  • Supporting materials to support the nomination such as newspaper articles, brochures, photographs, videos, press releases, audio, etc. in the following formats (doc, dock, jpg, .pdf, zip, mp3, mp4, wav, ppt, mpg, ai, wmv). Please add all items to a Dropbox link and share that link in the form.

Entry Deadline & Submissions: All entries, supporting materials and payment must be received by Friday, August 16, 2024, at 5 p.m. Payment must be made online with credit card at the time of submission.

Notification: Only the person submitting the nomination will be notified prior to the awards ceremony.

Presentation: The recipient will be honored at the Awards Luncheon, Friday, October 4, 2024, during the Mississippi Governor’s Conference on Tourism.

For more information contact Danielle Morgan by email or phone at 601.605.1825.

Award Categories

MTA Member of the Year Presented to an outstanding volunteer member who goes above and beyond for the betterment of the organization.

DMO of the Year – $3,000,000 and Over Honors a DMO with a budget of $3,000,000 and over, which is recognized for outstanding efforts in destination marketing and management through strategies and initiatives that generate visitation and contribute to the overall success of their destination. Entries should also demonstrate they are supportive of tourism endeavors, not only promoting their own area but also other partners and the industry as a whole.

DMO of the Year – $1,000,000 to $2.99 Million  Honors a DMO with a budget of $1,000,000 to $2.99 Million, which is recognized for outstanding efforts in destination marketing and management through strategies and initiatives that generate visitation and contribute to the overall success of their destination. Entries should also demonstrate they are supportive of tourism endeavors, not only promoting their own area but also other partners and the industry as a whole.

DMO of the Year – $500,000 to $999,000 Honors a DMO with a budget of $500,000 to $999,000, which is recognized for outstanding efforts in destination marketing and management through strategies and initiatives that generate visitation and contribute to the overall success of their destination. Entries should also demonstrate they are supportive of tourism endeavors, not only promoting their own area but also other partners and the industry as a whole.

DMO of the Year – $0 to $499,000 DMO with a budget of $0 to $499,000, which is recognized for outstanding efforts in destination marketing and management through strategies and initiatives that generate visitation and contribute to the overall success of their destination. Entries should also demonstrate they are supportive of tourism endeavors, not only promoting their own area but also other partners and the industry as a whole.

Tourism Promotion of the Year Honors a specific promotional campaign that is innovative and successful in attracting visitors to a destination, attraction, hotel, venue or event.

Tourism Investment Award Honors an entity or person who has made an enduring contribution to Mississippi’s tourism economy. Eligible entries should highlight individuals or corporations that have built or invested their time, talents and resources into a hotel, restaurant, attraction or other tourism related project in the state of Mississippi.

Tourism Achievement Award Awarded to a tourism entity that has significantly increased visitation and helped shape the future of their destination. The entity should exhibit how their work has enhanced the travel and tourism experience through their strategic vision and commitment to their community. Entries should demonstrate a comprehensive plan with long term goals and results showing how these significant achievements were accomplished. 

Best Sales Strategy or Campaign Honors a strong campaign or strategy used to grow sales for a destination, attraction, hotel, convention center or other tourism entity via traditional or digital methods. Results should include a clear statement of goals and results. Examples would include but are not limited to: sales-focused mailers, promotional items, familiarization tours and other sales strategies.

Best Public Relations Strategy or Campaign Awarded to a strong public relations campaign or strategy. Projects may include, but are not limited to, development projects, advocacy campaigns, welcome center projects, socially/environmentally responsible efforts, experiential, etc. Campaigns may be directed at niche markets or a general travel audience. Campaigns may also relate to special events, crisis management programs or overall tourism promotion. Results should be communicated with relevant and meaningful metrics. Results should include: impressions, results, pickup and social media reach (if applicable).

Best Advocacy or Grassroots Campaign Entries should show how your entity has demonstrated its value to stakeholders and lawmakers. Entries may include, but are not limited to: presentations to stakeholders, lawmakers, advertisements, collateral, video messaging, etc.

Governmental Tourism Leadership Award Awarded to a government entity that supports tourism and works well with tourism partners by lending support and helping grow tourism. Examples of government entities include, but are not limited to, state legislators, local government officials such as mayors, alderman/supervisors, city and county clerks, etc.

Community Volunteer of the Year This is awarded to a person that gives freely of their personal time to help attract visitors to their community. They are willing to work on either an individual project or multiple projects tirelessly with the desire of helping their city grow through tourism.

Tourism Partnership of the Year This recognizes effective partnerships among entities within the tourism industry. Examples would include partnerships successfully impacting any of the following: marketing, advocacy, education and development. Entries should include but are not limited to: how the partnership was conceived and created, how you worked well together to achieve common goals, the impact of the partnership and future plans for further collaboration. Please include statements from both partners outlining how this partnership impacted all involved partners in a positive way. 

Lodging of the Year Presented to a lodging source in the state that not only attracts visitors but also exhibits an above-average commitment to the visitor experience and overall engagement in the tourism industry.

Venue of the Year Presented to a venue in the state that offers an outstanding location for various types of events. Entries should also exhibit an above-average commitment to the visitor experience and overall engagement in the tourism industry.

Restaurant of the Year Presented to an eatery in the state that not only showcases Southern cuisine but also creates a dining experience that patrons will want to pass on to fellow travelers. 

Attraction of the Year Presented to an attraction that is new or unique in attracting visitors to its city. It shows results in bringing in tourists and visitors.

Large Festival/Event of the Year (Attendance of over 5,000) Awarded to a unique festival or event that is well attended, attracts a large variety of visitors and is well publicized. This category is for events with over 5,000 in attendance

Small Festival/Event of the Year (Attendance of 5,000 and below) Awarded to a unique festival or event that is well attended, attracts a large variety of visitors and is well publicized. This category is for events with 5,000 and fewer in attendance.

Best Overall Traditional Media Awarded to any member using traditional media (broadcast, radio, newspaper, magazine, print advertising campaign, etc) to promote a destination, attraction, property, event or campaign. This could also include earned media that compliments your media campaign.

Best Overall Digital Media Awarded to any member using digital media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, website, digital advertising campaign, podcast, etc) to promote a destination, attraction, property, event or campaign. Applicant should include documentation showing reach, growth and results during the award period.

Tom VanHyning Research-in-Action Award Awarded to a member who is investing in research in order to make data-driven decisions to grow tourism in the state. It is named in honor of beloved, former state economist Tom VanHyning, who served Mississippi tourism for decades and taught us the importance and value of good research.

Nomination Form

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government tourism awards

DOT relaunches Philippine Tourism Awards

government tourism awards

The Department of Tourism (DOT) announced Monday (October 17) the relaunching of the Philippine Tourism Awards (PTA) to incentivize tourism development in the country and encourage Local Government Units to adopt tourism as a means of economic development.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco made the announcement during the Philippine Tourism Convergence Reception at the SMX Convention Center attended by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., Vice President Sara Z. Duterte, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and representatives from the tourism industry.

The PTA, according to Frasco, aims to develop tourism consciousness in the country by seeking to recognize local tourism enterprises, local government units and individuals in the industry who have excelled in management performance and tourism service. The Awards will be held in collaboration with the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB).

“With all of you here tonight we wish to announce the relaunching of the Philippines Tourism Awards along with the Tourism Promotions Board. The PTA aims to recognize tourism related establishments and individuals whose seasoned expertise and commitment have innovatively and creatively projected the Filipino culture and the Filipino brand,” said Secretary Frasco.

The Philippine Tourism Awards will have 5 major categories: Institutional, Creative, Individual, Destination of the year and Special awards. Each will have a corresponding sub-categories.

The Institutional Awards will be given to those entities considered the best in their respective areas in terms of expertise, professionalism and quality of facilities and services. This will include Hotels, Resorts, Restaurants, Tour Operators, Events, Tourism Councils, Foreign Travel Agents and Foreign Airlines.

Creative Awards will be in recognition of the of the professional skills and insights of individuals and entities in their marketing, advertising and promotions efforts taking into account the creativity, imagination, ingenuity and factual presentation of information, organization and implementation and effectiveness of the program/project in terms of achieving client satisfaction.

Individual Awards are meant to those individuals directly or indirectly engaged in the industry who live up to the high standard of service and customer/client satisfaction expected from them.

The Destination of the Year Award will be in recognition of a particular tourism destinations’ contribution to the development and promotion of the tourism industry through the cooperative efforts exhibited by both private and local government sectors.

The Special Awards, on the other hand, will be presented to an individual or a private organization who/that has promoted the interests of the tourism industry and whose contribution has had a significant positive impact on tourism in the Philippines. This would likewise include Lifetime Achievement Awards to honor individuals for his/her noteworthy career as a tourism practitioner either in the government or private sector and who has had an outstanding contribution to the development and promotion of the Philippine tourism industry.

“Through the Philippine Tourism Awards we will also be identifying the best practices of local government units across the country including provinces, cities and municipalities to further encourage LGUs to adopt tourism as a means to stimulate the local economy and herald our distinct culture and heritage. We also hope to motivate our tourism stakeholders to elevate and maintain high standards of tourism services that we offer to our guests,” added Secretary Frasco.

The PTA ushers the revitalization of the tourism industry as the country looks forward to more relaxed travel and health restrictions in the near future.

Published:October 19, 2022

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government tourism awards

DOT’s Bisita, Be My Guest program awards first raffle winners

government tourism awards

Philippines’ FIBA hosting boosts hotel occupancy, visitor arrivals – Tourism Chief

government tourism awards

1st Philippine Tourism Dive Dialogue unites Dive Industry: 37B raked in 2022

government tourism awards

Boost in PH medical tourism seen with public-private convergence

government tourism awards

Philippines wins “Asia’s Leading Dive Destination” at prestigious World Travel Awards 2023

government tourism awards

DOT affirms support to peace and security efforts under Marcos administration

government tourism awards

Frasco cites PBBM’s policies, programs for the industry at PTM 2023

government tourism awards

DOT inks deal with Cebu LGU for more Tourist Rest Areas, “Heritage City” Carcar thanks DOT for TRA

government tourism awards

DOT in full support to FIBA World Cup Opening Day

government tourism awards

DOT, TESDA ink deal to expand tourism education, reinforce tourism training opportunities

government tourism awards

DOT, NCIP ink partnership to empower indigenous peoples, protect and promote cultural heritage through tourism

government tourism awards

Lawmakers laud tourism initiatives, bat for higher 2024 budget for DOT

government tourism awards

PHL records Php 286B tourism receipts from January to July; Frasco bares efforts to support tourism in Central Visayas

government tourism awards

PBBM’s prioritization makes tourism among top drivers of economic growth– DOT Chief

government tourism awards

DOT inaugurates first Tourist Rest Area in Mindanao; Frasco bares plan to build 15 more TRAs across the country

Dot records more inbound flights to phl, increase in domestic air routes.

government tourism awards

Tourism Chief highlights Culinary Tourism in PHL at World Chefs Asia President Forum 2023

government tourism awards

NMP-Cebu to spur tourism development in Visayas Region—Frasco

government tourism awards

DOT Chief welcomes e-Visa system for Chinese tourists

government tourism awards

DOT positions PHL as one of Asia’s most LGBT-friendly destinations

government tourism awards

From courtside to paradise: DOT supports FIBA World Cup hosting with Philippine Tour Packages

government tourism awards

DOT bares tourism milestones under PBBM’s first year in office; Secretary Frasco optimistic on exceeding industry targets for 2023

government tourism awards

PHL int’l tourist arrivals breach 3M mark; tourism receipts surge at P212.47 billion

government tourism awards

Frasco inaugurates first ever DOT Tourist Rest Area in PHL

Pbbm trusts frasco, tourism chief gets widespread support.

government tourism awards

Frasco launches Philippines Hop-On-Hop-Off for Manila

government tourism awards

DOT chief grateful for continued support from lawmakers, employees

government tourism awards

Love the Philippines draws widespread support

government tourism awards

DOT’s enhanced branding is Philippines’ Love Letter to the world

government tourism awards

Batanes joins UNWTO International Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories inclusion is a manifestation of Philippines’ successful sustainability efforts in local destinations – DOT chief

government tourism awards

The Philippines elected as Vice President of UNWTO General Assembly after 24 Years, nabs Chairmanship of Commission for East Asia and the Pacific

government tourism awards

DOT eyes increased arrivals from Cambodia

government tourism awards

DOT welcomes positive tourism figures for FY2022; vows sustained industry recovery drive under the Marcos administration

Ph vies for six nominations for the wta 2023.

government tourism awards

DOT rallies support of tourism stakeholders on digitalization initiatives

government tourism awards

Heritage and Arts Tours in San Juan City get support from DOT

government tourism awards

Tourism chief, Deputy Speaker Frasco donate for education of Pagsanjan boatmen’s children

government tourism awards

Tour Guides to get more livelihood with Digital Bookings

government tourism awards

DOT commits full support on Laguna’s local tourism resurgence; vows for more tourism projects in the province

government tourism awards

TWG convened to drive up CRK utilization; travel and tourism to remain ‘spark of hope’ for Clark – Secretary Frasco

government tourism awards

Philippines wins Emerging Muslim-friendly Destination of the Year Award (Non-OIC)

Dot supports malacañang heritage tours.

government tourism awards

The country’s colorful marine life takes the spotlight in DOT’s Anilao Underwater Shootout

government tourism awards

DOT, DND, DILG forge pact to make Mindanao a peaceful and viable tourist destination

government tourism awards

DOT, PRA ink partnership

government tourism awards

DOT lauds Rosquillos Festival’s showcase of local culture, contribution to local tourism

government tourism awards

PHL participation in int’l, local travel and trade fairs yields more than P3 billion in business leads—DOT Chief

More than 43k workers receive dot training on the filipino brand of service excellence (fbse).

government tourism awards

DOT vows support to SOCCSKSARGEN, Mindanao

Pbbm approval of phl tourism plan to spur tourism transformation, employment, philippines’ int’l visitor arrivals breach 2m.

government tourism awards

DOT lauds PATA’s initiative to rebuild tourism communities in Laguna, Pagsanjan Falls

government tourism awards

Filipino tourism frontliners recognized during DOT’s 50th founding anniversary celebration

government tourism awards

DOT supports new country brand under the Marcos administration

government tourism awards

DOT welcomes the resumption of chartered flights to PHL top destination Boracay

government tourism awards

Medical Tourism pushed by Marcos Administration with strategic global partnership – DOT Chief

government tourism awards

Frasco meets US filmmakers, media execs to promote Philippine tourism

government tourism awards

Record number 1,400 Koreans arrive to Filipino welcome led by Tourism Secretary Frasco

government tourism awards

Tourism chief Frasco dives in Puerto Galera, provides alternative livelihood to Oriental Mindoro

government tourism awards

Philippine-Turkiye air service deal to boost tourism- DOT Chief

government tourism awards

DOT-DOLE Tourism Job Fairs offer more than 8K jobs; 3rd leg set in May

government tourism awards

DOT, DOTr jointly conduct inspection at NAIA T2 ahead of Holy Week break

government tourism awards

More than 6k jobs up for grabs at DOT’s PHL tourism job fair

government tourism awards

Go Negosyo, DOT mount Tourism Summit in Cebu

government tourism awards

Business as usual in Puerto Galera; DOT to train tourism workers affected by oil spill for alternative livelihood – Frasco

government tourism awards

DOT holds Philippine visa reforms convergence

government tourism awards

Philippines hits 260M negotiated sales, bags recognition at the ITB Berlin 2023

government tourism awards

DOT chief unveils National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023-2028 at stakeholders’ summit

government tourism awards

Frasco meets with Central Europe tourism players, vows prioritization of tourism under Marcos Administration

government tourism awards

Philippines comes back with biggest delegation to ITB Berlin, bags sustainable tourism recognitions

government tourism awards

Oil Spill affecting tourist sites – DOT Chief

government tourism awards

DOT issues guidelines pushing for more openness for tourism enterprises

government tourism awards

Tourism chief to lead biggest PHL delegation to ITB Berlin 2023

government tourism awards

PHL feted Best Dive Destination anew

government tourism awards

New Flights from Clark to boost tourism, decongest NAIA

government tourism awards

Frasco lauds Ilocos Norte’s Tan-Ok festival as manifestation of the Philippine Experience’

government tourism awards

Frasco: Panagbenga Festival touts Baguio’s tourism resurgence

government tourism awards

DOT extends ‘free accreditation’ for tourism establishments

government tourism awards

DOT Chief launches Tourism Champions Challenge’ to spur tourism development in LGUs

government tourism awards

PHL secures back-to-back nominations at the 2023 World Travel Awards

government tourism awards

Frasco convenes first TCC meeting, forecasts full domestic recovery in 2023

government tourism awards

Frasco leads groundbreaking of new tourist pit stop to boost Palawan tourism

government tourism awards

Frasco leads grand welcome reception for cruise passengers, says ‘PHL aims to be cruise hub in Asia’

government tourism awards

Japanese stakeholders bullish of PHL tourism prospects

government tourism awards

PBBM, Tourism chief engage Japanese tourism stakeholders in high-level meet in Tokyo

government tourism awards

Tourism chief affirms DOT’s support to PH Dev’t Plan 2023-2028

government tourism awards

Chinese tourists receive warm welcome from PHL; DOT foresees swifter tourism recovery with Chinese outbound group tour

government tourism awards

PHL, CHINA ink tourism implementation deal

government tourism awards

PHL breaches 2.6M arrivals for 2022; DOT chief bullish of 2023 projections

government tourism awards

DOT lands on Top 3 Highest Approval Rating among Government Agencies; bares targets for 2023

government tourism awards

DOT, DICT ink deal for improvement of connectivity in tourist destinations, digitalization of services

government tourism awards

DOT, DMW launch newest incentivized tourism promotions campaign

government tourism awards

DOT, TIEZA launch 7th Tourist Rest Area in Pagudpud’s Saud Beach

government tourism awards

Tourist Rest Area to rise in Bohol

government tourism awards

Luzon’s First DOT Tourist Rest Area to Rise In Baguio City

government tourism awards

DOT strengthens PHL-Saudi Arabia tourism relations, engages industry key players

government tourism awards

Statement of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco on the Launch of the e-Travel System

government tourism awards

Filipino hospitality, Philippine sustainable tourism highlighted at WTTC Global Summit Saudi Arabia

government tourism awards

Frasco welcomes Uzakrota World’s Leading Country Award, PHL destinations’ citations

government tourism awards

Frasco eyes more urban parks in the Philippines

government tourism awards

DOT’s Frasco is among best-performing cabinet officials- RPMD Survey

government tourism awards

Frasco hails first-ever North Luzon Travel Fair as critical to revitalizing tourism; reiterates the Philippines’ readiness for visitors

government tourism awards

DOT welcomes long holidays for 2023; PBBM signing of Proclamation No. 90 important stimulus to PHL domestic tourism in 2023: DOT chief

government tourism awards

PHL visitor arrivals reach 2M; tourism revenue hit 100B – DOT Chief

government tourism awards

Philippines hailed as World’s Leading Dive and Beach Destinations

government tourism awards

PHL Tourism Chief initiates tourism cooperation talks with Italian Tourism Minister

government tourism awards

Palawan cited “Most Desirable Island” in 21st Wanderlust Travel Award

government tourism awards

Outlook for Philippine tourism positive – tourism chief

government tourism awards

DOT launches 1st North Luzon Travel Fair

government tourism awards

Tourism chief to lead PHL contingent to WTM, brings listening tours to FILCOM in UK

government tourism awards

PBBM oks easing of stringent travel restrictions

government tourism awards

PHITEX 2022 yields record high 173M sales leads

government tourism awards

One Health Pass replaced with PHL’s ‘simpler’ eARRIVAL CARD system

government tourism awards

Philippine Experience Caravans to roll out 2023 – Frasco

government tourism awards

DOT exceeds 2022 target arrivals; PBBM rallies support for tourism as admin’s priority sector

government tourism awards

Siargao, a priority for Tourism Development — Frasco

government tourism awards

STATEMENT OF TOURISM SECRETARY CHRISTINA GARCIA FRASCO

government tourism awards

DOT bares tourism wins under PBBM’s first 100 days

government tourism awards

Tourist Rest Areas for PHL’s top destination – Cebu

government tourism awards

Tourist Rest Areas launched in Mindanao

government tourism awards

FY 2023 DOT budget submitted to plenary; Senators press for higher tourism budget

government tourism awards

DOT celebrates Philippines’ back to back wins at Conde Naste Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards; Boracay claims spot as top island in Asia anew

government tourism awards

Frasco secures CA nod as Tourism Chief

government tourism awards

DOT receives HOR nod for P3.573 B budget for 2023

government tourism awards

First ever DOT-DOLE nat’l tourism job fair opens

government tourism awards

Tourism Chief tackles plans to revive industry, entices foreign investors in New York briefing

government tourism awards

PBBM pronouncements at UN meet an “excellent representation” of PHL – Secretary Frasco

government tourism awards

DOT-DOLE 1st Philippine Tourism Job Fair pre-registration now open, more than 7k jobs available to tourism job seekers- Sec. Frasco

government tourism awards

STATEMENT OF TOURISM SECRETARY CHRISTINA GARCIA FRASCO ON THE LIFTING OF OUTDOOR MASK MANDATE IN THE PHILIPPINES

government tourism awards

DOT muling pinarangalan ng Selyo ng Kahusayan sa Serbisyo Publiko 2022

government tourism awards

DOT Chief welcomes IATF recommendation to make masking optional when outdoors

government tourism awards

Phl scores back to back win in WTA Asia; Intramuros hailed as Asia’s Leading Tourist Attraction of 2022

government tourism awards

Frasco lays out DOT plans and programs for industry recovery; lawmakers bat for higher DOT budget

government tourism awards

More than 1,500 tourism jobs to be offered in joint DOT-DOLE job fair

Dot to ink tourism job fair program – trabaho, turismo, asenso with dole; domestic, international jobs to be available to tourism job hunters.

government tourism awards

Thailand to offer tourism job opportunities to Filipinos– Frasco

government tourism awards

PHL tourism chief pushes for increased connectivity, interoperability of vax certs, equalization of opportunities, and sustainability in APEC tourism ministers’ meet

government tourism awards

Philippines strengthens tourism ties with Thailand

government tourism awards

DOT TRAINS BOHOL VENDORS ON FILIPINO BRAND OF SERVICE EXCELLENCE

government tourism awards

20 intl, local dive and marine experts take centerstage at PHIDEX 2022

government tourism awards

Measures in place to ensure safe travel to PHL – Tourism Chief

government tourism awards

FRASCO OPTIMISTIC OF PH TOURISM RESURGENCE, LAUDS CEBU TOURISM SUCCESS

government tourism awards

Frasco eyes visitor-friendly, “distinctly Filipino” air, seaports in PHL

government tourism awards

DOT celebrates Philippine Accessible Disability Services, Inc. (PADS) Dragon Boat Team historic four gold medal haul

government tourism awards

DOT to facilitate interagency effort to strengthen Filipino Brand of Service

government tourism awards

DOT to coordinate on quake-hit tourist destinations, heritage sites

government tourism awards

PBBM cites tourism as top-priority; orders infra development, enhancement of Filipino brand

government tourism awards

DOT chief takes “Listening Tours” to Luzon

government tourism awards

DOT Chief affirms support to National Museum of the Philippines; proposes inclusion of museums in tourism circuits

government tourism awards

Boracay, Palawan and Cebu hailed World’s Best Islands; DOT celebrates back-to-back accolades for PHL destinations

government tourism awards

Marcos push for Tourism Infra strengthens industry, raises PHL global position – DOT Chief

government tourism awards

DOT lauds Boracay’s inclusion in TIME’s 50 World’s Greatest Places of 2022

government tourism awards

DOT lauds Cebu-based group win in int’l dance competition

Statement of tourism secretary christina garcia frasco on banaue.

government tourism awards

Tourism Chief Frasco kicks off listening tours in VisMin, encourages officials to reach out to LGUs, stakeholders

government tourism awards

Tourism chief Frasco to go on ‘listening tours’ starting this week

Dot reports increase in domestic tourism in 2021.

government tourism awards

Incoming tourism chief receives warm welcome from employees, vows to bring “LGU perspective” to DOT

government tourism awards

DOT’s Philippine International Dive Expo (PHIDEX) returns to Manila next month

government tourism awards

First Davao Dive Expo slated on June 24

government tourism awards

DOT touts ‘future farms’ as new and sustainable tourist attractions

government tourism awards

DOT pitches PHL as ideal retirement destination in Japan Expo

government tourism awards

DOT positions New Clark City as premier tourism investment hub

government tourism awards

PH’s significant recovery in travel and tourism hot topic in Routes Asia 2022

government tourism awards

DOT’s KAIN NA! takes foodies to a multi-sensory adventure

government tourism awards

DOT Presents “Escape: Stories from the Road” Podcast

government tourism awards

Second (2nd) Online Master TESOL Certification Course

government tourism awards

DOT, MMC Foundation partnership brings ER bikes to three Metro Manila tourist sites

government tourism awards

DOT spotlights PWDs and women in tourism with new “It’s More Fun for All” campaign

Media release from the department of tourism.

government tourism awards

PHL scraps COVID pre-departure test for fully vaccinated, boostered tourists

government tourism awards

DENR, DOT and DILG unveil Year of Protected Areas (YoPA) Campaign marking 90th anniversary of Protected Area establishment in the Philippines

government tourism awards

Department of Tourism and Mickey Go Philippines introduce Pinoy Mickey Funko Pops

government tourism awards

DOT launches “Keep the Fun Going” sustainable tourism campaign with gamified challenges

government tourism awards

DOT reminds AEs on proper flag etiquette

government tourism awards

DOT 49th Anniversary speech of the Tourism Secretary

government tourism awards

DOT pushes for 100% vaccination of active tourism workers

government tourism awards

DOT calls for lowering of testing price cap, certification of more saliva test facilities

government tourism awards

PHL may be next filming location as Tourism Summit brings in Hollywood execs

government tourism awards

WTTC Investment Tour Highlights Viable Opportunities in Clark, Central Luzon

government tourism awards

WTTC lauds PH successful hosting of Int’l tourism Summit

government tourism awards

Closing and Congratulatory Message during the Closing Ceremony of the 21st WTTC Global Summit of the DOT Secretary

government tourism awards

WTTC: ‘Astonishing Recovery’ for Philippines’ tourism sector

government tourism awards

World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Exhibition Booths

government tourism awards

WTTC Opening Ceremony Welcome Remarks of the DOT Secretary

government tourism awards

WTTC bullish on PH tourism recovery amid Covid-19 pandemic

government tourism awards

PHL Foreign tourist arrivals breach 200k mark – DOT Chief

government tourism awards

DOT, partner agencies celebrate Filipino Food Month

government tourism awards

WTTC announces speakers for its 21st Global Summit in the Philippines

government tourism awards

DOT seeks return of Korean tourists, PH’s top market

government tourism awards

DOT inks partnership with PNP, PDEA to beef up security in tourist destinations

government tourism awards

DOT Launches Digital Travel Magazine “7641”

government tourism awards

PHL says “All systems go for full reopening on April 1”; Removes EED as entry requirement

Phl logs more than 100,000 visitor arrivals since feb. 10 reopening.

government tourism awards

DOT meets with Japanese tourism execs to boost inbound tourism arrivals

government tourism awards

Statement of the DOT on hotel rooms occupancy guidelines

government tourism awards

PH opens doors to all foreign tourists with easing of arrival requirements starting April 1

government tourism awards

Travel to PHL is “easier”, more fun – Puyat

government tourism awards

DOT Launches “Sounds More Fun in the Philippines” Playlist on Spotify

government tourism awards

DOT hopeful on higher tourism growth with downgrading of NCR, 38 areas to Alert Level 1

government tourism awards

Intramuros visitors up by 132% in February

government tourism awards

DOT bares higher tourist influx since reopening

Dot welcomes iatf approval to accept the national vaxcert of 12 additional countries.

government tourism awards

PH receives 9,283 inbound tourists; DOT upbeat on higher arrivals in months ahead

government tourism awards

Puyat: Walk-in booster shots available for Boracay visitors

government tourism awards

All systems go for PHL reopening for international travel- Puyat

government tourism awards

Kids’ vaccination to make family travels safe, more fun

government tourism awards

DOT lists requirements and protocols for arriving foreign leisure guests

government tourism awards

Save the date for the World Travel & Tourism Council Global Summit in the Philippines

government tourism awards

DOT: PH to accept fully-vaxxed tourists from visa-free countries starting Feb. 10

government tourism awards

DOT supports ‘Pharmacy and Drive-thru Vaccination Sites’ rollout in Baguio City

government tourism awards

DOT Launches “ASMR Experience the Philippines” Project

Dot to hold 2-day conference on english as second language (esl).

government tourism awards

PH cities, hotels bag ASEAN tourism awards

government tourism awards

Booster shots rolled out for fully vaxxed tourism workers; 50% of NCR hotel staff already “boosted”

government tourism awards

DOT trains over 30,000 tourism professionals amid pandemic

Dot welcomes eased travel movement between gcq and mgcq areas for tourism revival, hotel in ‘poblacion girl” fiasco suspended, fined, intramuros gives vulnerable population a breathing space, dot launches website with exclusive travel deals for balikbayans.

government tourism awards

Anilao Underwater Shootout stages a successful comeback

government tourism awards

DOT’s KAIN NA! makes a comeback in Tagaytay

Dot earns unwto citation for have a safe trip, pinas ad.

government tourism awards

Brgy. Bojo in Aloguinsan, Cebu bags UNWTO best tourism village award

More than 95% of tourism workers in dive establishments already vaccinated against covid-19: dot.

government tourism awards

DOT: PHL to welcome Int’l tourists soon

Dot welcomes shortened quarantine days for balikbayans, dot asks lgus to simplify entry requirements in tourist spots, miceconnect 2021 positions boracay as asia’s premier bleisure destination, dot releases latest list of domestic destinations waiving rt-pcr tests for fully vaxxed visitors, dot grants incentives to fully vaccinated individuals visiting intramuros.

government tourism awards

Statement of the DOT on waiving RT-PCR requirement to Boracay for fully vaxxed tourists

government tourism awards

Anilao underwater ‘shootout’ is back

Puyat, dot execs pitch ph tourism in japan travel mart, dot welcomes eased restrictions in mm under alert level 2, free swab tests for domestic tourists starting nov. 1, dot lists destinations without testing requirement, with projected 100% inoculation rate by next month, boracay will soon waive rt-pcr testing for fully vaxxed visitors.

government tourism awards

Domestic Travel Welcome-Back: DOT, TPB launch ‘It’s More Fun with You’ ad and ‘Have a Safe Trip, Pinas’ Viber Stickers

22 divers pass dot guide training in anilao.

government tourism awards

PH cited Asia’s top beach and dive destination anew in 2021 World Travel Awards

Dot bullish on camiguin’s reopening, boosts covid-19 vax drive, dot clarifies travel guidelines for ncr residents under alert level 4, alert level 3, good for tourism jobs and businesses as holidays near – puyat, 2nd tourism & technology forum: readying for a different future.

government tourism awards

DOT vaccination drive for tourism workers continues in Pampanga

Dot welcomes easing of age restrictions for interzonal travel, less quarantine days for travelers an ‘encouraging development’ for tourism industry – puyat.

government tourism awards

Vaccination of Rizal tourism workers crucial to industry’s recovery — DOT

Dot welcomes siargao, palawan and boracay win in int’l travel mag awards, over 43k safety seals issued as more businesses apply, dot backs call to shorten quarantine of fully vaxxed travelers, dot calls for cooperation to ensure success of expanded operational capacity of restaurants in ncr.

government tourism awards

DOT lauds Samar LGU vax drive for tourism workers

Message of secretary berna romulo-puyat on the celebration of world tourism day, dot ensures compliance of accredited hotels, resorts to new iatf alert level system guidelines.

government tourism awards

Cebu vax drive for tourism workers gains traction with more than 50% inoculated

Puyat bares phl hosting of international tourism conference in march 2022.

government tourism awards

DOT and TikTok launch #GandaMoPinas Campaign as local borders reopen

Dot invites esl teachers to free online master tesol certification course.

government tourism awards

DOT launches “More Fun Awaits” global campaign to showcase travel preps

Statement of the department of tourism (dot), statement of the department of tourism on the inclusion of palawan in t+l’s top islands in asia, world list, more than 50% of country’s tourism workers vaccinated against covid-19 – dot chief, intramuros site visit of dot secretary berna romulo-puyat.

government tourism awards

Intramuros sites and Rizal Park to reopen September 16

Philippines boosts participation in expo 2020 dubai, highlights pinoy food, local tourism businesses receive dot, tpb philcare kits.

government tourism awards

DOT, partner agencies drive up promotion of Filipino food experience

government tourism awards

More than 7.5k tourism workers in Baguio have received Covid vax – Tourism Chief

Dot, tpb distribute p19m worth of materials to promote safety protocols.

government tourism awards

DOT, NTF bring vaccination rollout for tourism workers in Siargao Island

government tourism awards

DOT: 95% of tourism workers in NCR vaxxed vs Covid-19

Sustainability is key to tourism industry’s recovery — puyat, dot lauds private sector for vaccine rollout in el nido.

government tourism awards

PHITEX 2021: Beyond Business slated for September 19-23

government tourism awards

Puyat leads vaccination drive for Pampanga tourism workers

government tourism awards

More than 75% of Bohol tourism workers eyed for inoculation with second vaccine roll-out

More than 70% of tourism frontliners in metro manila vaccinated vs covid-19 — puyat.

government tourism awards

DOT and TPB SUCCESSFULLY STAGED FIRST-EVER HYBRID EDITION OF THE REGIONAL TRAVEL FAIR

Dot, bpos to hold job fair, statement of the department of tourism.

government tourism awards

DOT targets increased inoculation of tourism workers in more destinations

government tourism awards

Puyat: More vaccines coming for Palawan tourism workers

Dot statement on nesthy petecio’s silver medal finish in the tokyo 2020 olympics, rizal park drive-thru vax site opens; puyat hails manila’s anti-covid initiative, dot gets highest coa rating for 2nd straight year, statement of the department of tourism on the passing of heritage and cultural tourism advocate mr. ramon hofileña, statement of the department of tourism (dot) on the heightened community quarantine level implementations in ncr, more tourism workers in boracay to receive covid-19 jabs – dot, dot reiterates call for safe travel amid stricter quarantine measure, dot reminds hotels, resorts that room sharing for quarantined families is allowed, dot celebrates siargao inclusion in time magazine as one of the world’s greatest places of 2021, dot launches halal food tourism, dot backs gov’t infra program to boost tourism, dot backs iloilo bid for ‘creative city of gastronomy’ recognition from unesco, statement of the department of tourism on iatf decision allowing children five years old and above, and fully vaccinated seniors to visit outdoor areas, dot partners with viber to promote kain na foodfest, dot: 3,000 boracay tourism workers to receive covid vax, dot, tpb continues to support lgus with digital transformation projects, dot teams up with scarlet belo and cartoon network to take safe trips, dot statement on the activities of the taal volcano, bakuna by the sea: dot hails davao’s innovative approach to travel, hospitality workers, dot, tpb to roll out 2nd phase of rt-pcr financial subsidy program through pcmc, dot unveils region 1 tourism recovery plan, statement of the department of tourism on the drop of tourism contribution to gdp, dot to co-stage virtual fête de la musique june 18-21, more ncr tourism workers receive support through dot-dole program, travel for tourists of all ages from ncr plus to boracay, other mgcq areas extended to june 30, dot eyes inoculation of 5,000 bohol tourism workers, museums in ncr plus to reopen on limited capacity – dot, dot turns food tourism to high heat with 2021 kain na, terms for tourism business loans eased, dot bares tourism recovery plans for bulacan, dot and tiktok launch #sarapmagingpinoy campaign to promote local food tourism, dot launches five-year plan to develop tourism professionals, dot celebrates world environment month, highlights responsible marine wildlife interactions, statement of the department of tourism (dot) on the rt-pcr requirement for leisure travelers under iatf-eid resolution 118a, statement of the dot on iatf-eid resolution 118a, more than 16k bulacan tourism workers get dot-dole cash aid, dot orders stricter monitoring of staycation hotels and aes in gcq areas following new iatf guidelines, dot lauds inclusion of frontline tourism workers in a1 priority group, dot hosts pata summit for first hybrid mice event in 2021, over 1,400 golf workers in metro manila get dot-dole cash aid.

government tourism awards

Central Luzon to Showcase ‘Flavors of Pampanga’, readies tourists for gastronomic experience

Dot lauds ph hotels recognized with the 2021 tripadvisor awards, 3,390 tourism workers in marinduque approved to receive p16.95m dot-dole cash aid, puyat bares tourism recovery plans for marinduque, dot proposes ‘green lane’ for fully vaccinated travelers, dot hails expansion of priority vaccination to a4 cluster, including tourism frontliners, 5,986 staycation rooms open for guests from ncr plus, intramuros to open fort santiago, baluarte de san diego to visitors may 17, dot statement on the proposed vaccination center in nayong pilipino, dot welcomes iatf decision to ease travel in ncr plus, 221m cash aid approved for 44k tourism workers in western visayas, statement of the department of tourism (dot) on the collected garbage from the waters of samal island, davao del norte, statement of the department of tourism (dot) on the reported violations of a hotel in davao city, dot to host hybrid pata annual event for adventure travel, p1.5m cash aid approved for 295 intramuros tourism workers, updates on the vaccination of tourism workers, labor day vax for tourism workers, more than 400k displaced tourism workers get dot-dole cash aid, philippine tourism and mice industry to bounce back with the hosting of wttc global summit, dot, manila lgu ink mobile hospital deal, dot-accredited establishment staysafe.ph-users, eligible for safety seal certification, dot grants the wttc safe travels stamp to 33 more hotels nationwide, dot welcomes proposals to convert tourism sites to temporary medical facilities, dot lauds repurposed hotels, calls for ‘bayanihan’ vs covid, dot approves use of burnham green and quirino grandstand in rizal park for temporary mobile hospital and drive-thru vaccination site, dot celebrates saud beach inclusion in the 25 most beautiful beaches in the world list of travel and leisure, 67k displaced tourism workers of ncr+ receive dot-dole cash aid, statement of the department of tourism on the vaccination facility in nayong pilipino property, statement of the department of tourism regarding the alleged birthday “super spreader” event in boracay, dot eyes adoption of covid-19 digital travel pass, dot statement on ecq extension in ncr plus, phl, dot nominated at asia edition of 2021 world travel awards, dot pushes for inclusion of other tourism workers in priority group a4, strict new guidelines set for hotels under ecq; lenten ‘staycations’ within ncr plus suspended, dot statement on ecq for ncr+ areas, dot statement on holy week, rizal park and paco park adjust visiting hours, remain open for physical exercise, dot statement on biatf measures for boracay, tpb philippines spearheads tourism and technology forum (ttf), dot statement on coron tourist with falsified travel documents, dot supports rizal tourism circuit on food, faith, art, adventure and nature, the ‘fun’ continues: philippines joins digital itb berlin, dot to spur domestic tourism in rizal, dot’s stdp program to enhance resiliency of phl destinations – puyat, dot sustains online presence with ‘wake up in ph’ campaign and safety travel advisories, dot greenlights partial operations of hotel restaurants on june 15, dot eyes tourism recovery as more destinations may reopen, domestic travel to drive recovery of tourism industry, says survey, dot hails revival of tourist cops, tourism will recover well, dot chief vows, dot celebrates hidden beach, palawan’s inclusion in cnt’s best beaches in the world, tourism industry hikes share in gdp to 13%; puyat sees strong recovery from pandemic, dot pushes stringent guidelines for stakeholders across the nation, biatf denounces travelers’ breach of entry protocol to boracay, dot lauds partnership model for safe and sustainable tourism in boracay, dot issues guidelines on tourist land transport services, iatf–eid resolution reiterates ‘dot certificate of authority’ as requisite to operate, dot issues protocols on restaurant operations under the new normal, dot welcomes ph ‘rising stars in travel’ citation by forbes.com, dot, dti to roll out health and safety guidelines, digital solutions for restaurants, dot, attached agencies promote digital tourism, tourism chief reminds hotels, resorts: no dot certificate, no business operations during mgcq, dot assists 36,000 tourists during covid-19 crisis, dot webinar tackles digital as the new normal, dot welcomes the resumption of tourism operations in areas under mgcq, trust and health safety key to phl tourism recovery – dot chief, puyat on reopening tourism: ‘do it slowly but surely’, dot brings home 84 tourists stranded in eastern visayas, dot supports coron’s sustainable tourism development to bounce back, dot welcomes puerto princesa reopening to domestic tourists, dot urges for more wttc safe travels stamp applications, boracay’s white beach, el nido’s nacpan beach among tripadvisor’s top beaches in asia, dot statement on uniform travel protocols, dot supports the safe reopening of negros oriental, puyat affirms support for siquijor’s reopening, dot statement on el nido’s swift action against tourists with false covid test records, dot supports dilg’s streamlining of travel requirements, dot assists 98 stranded tourists in western mindanao, dot assists 246 tourists stranded in bicol, dot response team assists 1004 tourists stranded in caraga region, statement of tourism secretary bernadette romulo-puyat, dot8 springs stranded tourists, total assisted travelers now at 11,000, dot assists stranded tourists in central luzon, dot response teams assist over 10,000 travelers, dot announces the guidelines on hotels and other accommodation establishments during the enhanced community quarantine, dot chief: innovation to spur food tourism in new normal, dot webinar tackles heritage site conservation and use amid pandemic, dot banners “filipino brand of service”; assists over 35,000 tourists amid pandemic, dot to jumpstart domestic tourism under stricter protocols with iatf and lgus, dot partners with wttc to share experts’ tourism outlook, recovery plans, dot regulates hotel food deliveries, dot: tourism industry up to tough challenges on path to recovery, more than 155,000 tourism sector workers receive first tranche of dof wage subsidy program, dot mounts sweeper flights; brings home 1000 stranded domestic tourists, dot webinar tackles recovery, future of phl’s m.i.c.e., statement of the department of tourism (dot) on the iatf–eid authorization to mount sweeper flights, statement of secretary bernadette romulo puyat on the passing of former dot secretary ramon jimenez, jr., dot–ncr assists 24,000 in–transit nationals amid ecq of luzon, dot and ssi support philippine food producers in online philippine harvest, dot provides virtual backgrounds for video calls to encourage “travel from home”, dot offers online “enhanced opportunity” training for tourism stakeholders, dot-region 6 delivers filipino brand of service in crisis, dot outlines tourism response, post–covid 19 recovery plan to aid private sector, dot issues guidelines defining “new normal” for accommodation establishments, 24,836 hotel rooms reserved for ofws’ quarantine, bpo staff use – dot chief, stranded tourists welcome extended stay in batanes, dot welcomes lifting of travel ban for outbound passengers, recovery flights, tourism transport to continue for stranded passengers, statement of the department of tourism (dot) on covid-19 local transmission, dot statement on the curfew recommendation for lgus, dot, turkish airlines form partnership to increase philippine tourism from europe and mediterranean source markets, dot celebrates first run of the philippine international hot air balloon fiesta in calabarzon, puyat convenes tourism council; invites public to travel within ph, international visitor receipts hit usd 9.31b in 2019, 20.81% up from 2018, dot postpones nationwide mall sale to prioritize safety of citizens, department of tourism unveils new ad inspired by the abakada alphabet, highlighting unique filipino culture, puyat advocates for cultural and ecotourism in the new normal, relive the history of intramuros city with augmented reality app experience philippines, dot: 1st phl shopping fest kicks off march 1st, doh, dilg and dot give public gatherings green light, 2019 international arrivals exceed target with 8.26 million visitors to the philippines, dot welcomes lifting of taiwan travel ban, joint statement of the department of tourism and tourism congress of the philippines, dot backs “balik sa bohol” for tourism industry revival, intramuros reopens in the new normal, relaxed and standard health protocols, personalized trips key to tourism recovery, says latest philippine travel survey, dot files falsification raps against boracay tourists with forged covid test results, dot: reclassification of industries to hasten recovery, dot statement following the president’s latest directive to contain the ncov, guidelines in handling guests in tourism enterpises in the advent of ncov global health emergency, puyat eyes isabela as top agro-ecotourism destination, dot, dti inspect hotels and restaurants’ compliance with health and safety protocols, dot chief checks readiness of palawan, fresh produce at your doorstep, courtesy of dot–grab tie–up, dot ‘seal of good housekeeping’ boosts confidence among restos amid pandemic – puyat, dot celebrates as palawan reclaims best island in the world citation, tourism chief bullish on english schools’ recovery, dot, fao team up for sustainable farm tourism in ph, meetings, conventions allowed only under mgcq at 50% capacity – dot, boracay now open to youths, seniors from region, dot chief lauds senate approval of bayanihan 2 on final reading, cites plans for 10b stimulus fund, “think out of the box,” tourism industry urged in dot webinar, dot assures tourist stakeholders of all–out support for slow reopening, puyat meets with bohol execs to tackle tourism situation, recovery plans, dot, cloud panda ph launches phl harvest e-commerce site, statement of dot, dot to scale up baguio’s ridge to reef travel bubble plan across phl, dot celebrates “surprisingly spectacular diving” tag of 3 phl dive sites by lonely planet, phl bags best overseas diving award 2020, statement of department of tourism, dot’s phidex 2020 goes digital, dot-dole amended jmc further expands coverage of beneficiaries, dot welcomes new protocols for arriving passengers, dot bats for a more fun, safe and sustainable laguna, dot chief: green corridors are critical to tourism recovery, dot statement on destination test requirements, dot statement on boracay tourists, dot welcomes asean as a single tourism destination, iatf allows baguio hotels to receive domestic tourists under gcq, raising the bar of filipino hospitality with the leadership excellence series 2021, dot lauds inclusion of tourism frontliners in priority group for vaccination, dot’s ‘kain na’ cooks up online food fest, phl hosts 3rd asean meet on tourism professionals; dot commits to beef up competency of tourism workforce in the new normal, safety marshalls to ensure physical distancing when beaches, resorts reopen, 10,000 bpo jobs for displaced tourism workers, zero interest loans, no collateral, easy terms for distressed tourism businesses, puyat to grace baguio reopening; dot to go big on domestic tourism in 2021, chocolate, coffee, tea take centerstage in dot’s kain na food festival, dot receives safetravels stamp from world tourism body, puyat launches baguio’s vis.i.t.a. platform, reopening of boracay to more markets builds momentum for domestic tourism revival, puyat: even in most unusual ways, tourism must stay alive, message of tourism secretary bernadette romulo-puyat on the celebration of the world tourism day, dot statement on the city garden grand hotel, dot chief supports negrense cookbook launch, vows continued support to thriving food tourism scene in western visayas, dot statement on the closure of makati shangri-la hotel, dot pledges to help negros occidental get ready for more domestic tourists, dot welcomes the first two recipients of the wttc safe travel stamp, dot statement on baguio party incident, dot welcomes iatf decision to allow balikbayans, dot launches “have a safe trip, pinas” to promote safe travels and support tourism workers, dot celebrates ph’s victory as world’s leading dive destination and tourist attraction for intramuros in 2020, dot welcomes coron’s reopening on dec. 1 with health and safety measures in place, dot aims for data-driven response to tourism recovery under new normal with survey, dot backs enhanced contact tracing; announces low-cost covid tests with up-pgh for boracay-bound tourists, puyat encourages affected tourism workforce to avail of the expanded dot-dole financial assistance, dot welcomes strides to reboot mice, puyat visits batangas, shores up dive tourism, statement of the dot on cebu resort incident, dot presents virtual concert to promote manila’s cultural heritage sites, dot, makatimed foundation forge partnership for tourism destination health security, dot launches webinar training on reducing single-use plastics for hospitality sector, dot to assist zambales in safe and gradual tourism reopening, dot bats for uniform lgu travel requirements, dot, tpb promote pinoy christmas through music, dot’s 2020 kain na satisfies christmas cravings on fourth leg, dot’s 2020 kain na satisfies christmas cravings on fourth leg, dot prepares local destinations, accommodation establishments for wttc safe travels stamp application, 27,000 displaced tourism workers of car receive dot-dole financial assistance, dot backs temporary suspension of flights from uk, dot inspires balikbayans to come home with ‘balikan ang pilipinas’ campaign, dot, tpb expand rt-pcr financial subsidy program for 11,600 tourists through pcmc, dot reiterates penalties for quarantine hotels used for staycation and other purposes, dot supports strict entry protocols in light of new covid-19 variant, dot reiterates rule on staycation hotels, dot celebrates boracay and palawan inclusion in conde nast’s 25 best island beaches in the world list, dot issues guidelines for safe ‘staycation’, dot accreditation goes digital, boracay reopens, heralds “safe, gradual” revival of philippine tourism, dot gets coa’s highest rating on 2019 audit, dot sees domestic tourism boom in baguio with affordable antigen testing, phl islands named top favorites by int’l travel magazine, dot welcomes reopening of ilocos norte to luzon tourists on oct 15, dot funds rt-pcr testing of boracay tourism workers, dot inks tourism “cares for travel” msme loan program with sb corp, health, safety rules drawn up for recreational diving, batangas now open to divers – dot, puyat reminds ‘staycation hotels’ to follow rules, protocols, dot welcomes baguio city’s opening to guests from luzon starting oct. 22, dot statement on the opening of ilocos sur starting nov 15, ridge and reef corridor heralds domestic tourism recovery, puyat – hotels in gcq, mgcq may now be allowed to operate at full capacity, pra to amend retirement policies, suspends processing of srrv applications, dot supports expansion of palawan’s travel bubble starting oct. 30, tourism chief bats for covid-19 tests price cap, dot urges tourism businesses to avail of sb corp’s covid-19 loan program, dot leadership excellence series returns anew, dot statement on the inclusion of palawan and boracay in big 7 travel’s list of 50 most beautiful places, dot, tpb launch official philippine travel app, dot, dole agree on guidelines for cash-for-work program for displaced tourism workers, tour guides, dot’s kain na takes on food trips for november, intramuros is now asia’s leading tourist attraction the philippines and dot receive accolades at the 2020 world travel awards asia winners day, statement of the department of tourism on prrd’s signing of eo 118, dot inks mou on tourism education, training, dot partners with nissan to promote ‘safe trips’, dot allows operation of 7,200 hotels, resorts, dot lauds ibagiw 2020, baguio’s creative city festival, dot welcomes reopening of phl’s surfing capital, siargao, ridge and reef travel corridor expands to ilocos sur, dot chief visits baguio city, touts cultural tourism with creative crawls, sec. puyat to grace 2020 bambanti festival, dot allocates p340.7m for iloilo tourism infrastructure development, tourist arrivals mark 7.4m in november, up by 15.58%, safety of tourists is dot’s top priority – sec. puyat, dot, cab collaborate to enhance air passenger’s bill of rights, statement of the department of tourism, 2nd statement of the department of tourism, dot thanks smart for emergency satellite phones, dot–dotr meet to boost tourism infra, connectivity; puyat to push approval of 1b for night–rated airports, dot chief to visit, vows to revitalize baguio, tourism chief: phl one with asean in responding to covid crisis.

government tourism awards

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The major initiatives/events/achievements of Ministry of Tourism during the year 2023 are as follows:

  • Ministry of Tourism successfully organized 4 G20 Tourism Working Group and the Tourism Ministerial Meeting at different venues in the country, viz. Rann of Kutch, Siliguri/Darjeeling, Srinagar and Panaji, Goa.  The G20 Roadmap for Tourism as a vehicle for achieving sustainable development goals, the key deliverable of the tourism working group under India’s G20 Presidency was fully endorsed by all the G20 member countries as well as the invitee countries. It highlights five priorities of Green Tourism, Digitalization, Skills, Tourism MSMEs and Destination Management for achieving the SDGs. The Travel for LiFE initiative, based on the Mission LiFE, mentioned in the G20 Roadmap, aims to nudge visitors and tourism businesses to adopt sustainable practices and contribute to the preservation of natural heritage and culture.

government tourism awards

  • Ministry of Tourism organized the 11 th edition of International Tourism Mart in the NER to showcase the tourism potential of the North Eastern States of India at the domestic and international levels at Shillong, Meghalaya. It was organized from 21 st to 23 rd November 2023 in association with the State Government of Meghalaya. The Mart brought together the tourism business fraternity and entrepreneurs from the eight North Eastern States on a common platform thereby provided an avenue for tourism stakeholders of Meghalaya and other north-eastern States to showcase the uncharted travel destinations in the region. The International Tourism Mart was a Green Event in which low carbon options were adopted on the lines of the action points formulated by Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, GOI for implementation of Mission LiFE and sensitizing the tourism stakeholders and generating greater awareness about its objectives.

government tourism awards

  • On the occasion of World Tourism Day on 27 th September 2023, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India organised the Global Launch of ‘Travel for LiFE’ a program for tourism sector under Mission LiFE, envisaged to create awareness about sustainable tourism and to nudge the tourists and tourism businesses to adopt sustainable practices synchronous with nature. The program aims to encourage large scale behavioural changes and mainstream sustainability into tourism sector towards developing a sustainable, responsible and resilient tourism sector. It calls for a transition from a “use-and-dispose” economy to a circular economy characterized by mindful and deliberate utilization of resources instead of mindless and destructive consumption to preserve the resources of the environment.

government tourism awards

  • The year 2023 was declared to be the Visit India Year 2023 in a bid to position India as a 360-degree holistic destination in the major international source markets. Ministry of Tourism in collaboration with the overseas Indian Missions participated in major international travel exhibitions like FITUR, Madrid, Arabian Travel Mart, Dubai, World Travel Market, London, IMEX Frankfurt, Top Resa, Paris, ITB Berlin, OTDYKH, Moscow and  ITB Asia Singapore leading a delegation of DMCs, inbound tour operators, hoteliers amongst others to showcase the diversity of Indian tourism products and themes to the global travel trade sector.  India was also the partner country for the JATA Tourism Expo, which was held at Tokyo, in October 2023.

government tourism awards

  • Building upon the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's "Developing Tourism in Mission Mode," Ministry of Tourism unveiled an ambitious campaign aimed at showcasing India as a premier wedding destination on the global stage. The aim of the campaign is to redefine India's perception beyond the realm of royal, extravagant weddings. showcasing the beauty and diversity of India as a premier wedding destination on the global stage. By opening the doors to India's captivating locales, vibrant rituals, rich gastronomy, and world-class infrastructure, the objective of the campaign is to enthrall couples from across the world and entice them to craft their dream celebration in the embrace of India's charm.
  • A six - day mega event “Bharat Parv” event was organized by the Ministry at the Red Fort Lawns, New Delhi from 26th to 31st January, 2023, as part of the Republic Day Celebrations. It comprises of cultural performances by the Zonal Cultural Centres as well as cultural troupes from States/ UTs, a pan – India Food Court and a pan – India Crafts Bazaar with 65 handicraft stalls along with showcasing of the best Republic Day parade tableaux. The event which was open to the public attracted huge crowd of visitors on all days. The mega event is built on the theme of Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat.  

Bharat Parv, 2023

  • Ministry of Tourism in association with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) and Department of Tourism, Government of Rajasthan organized the G20 Tourism Expo at Jaipur, Rajasthan from 23 rd to 25 th April 2023 alongside the 12 th edition of ‘Great Indian Tourism Bazaar’ (GITB). The event was organized in line with India’s G20 Presidency coinciding with celebration of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav – Amrit Kaal under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister. Touted to be one of the largest events held in country, the G20 Tourism Expo proved to be a major success, drawing more than 150 tour operators and representatives from not only G20 countries, but also from nations representing distinct cultures.

government tourism awards

  • Krishnaveni Sangeetha Neerajanam at Vijayawada on the banks of River Krishna in from 10 – 12 December, 2023 was organized by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India in association with Ministry of Culture, Sangeet Natak Akademi and State Government of Andhra Pradesh. The  three-day cultural extravaganza celebrated the legacy of the rich heritage of Indian classical music by bringing together renowned singers and musicians of the country under one roof. A food and crafts festival showcasing handicrafts, handlooms, cuisine and culture of the vibrant state of Andhra Pradesh. A spectacular display of ancient musical instruments also enthralled the visitors.

government tourism awards

  • Under Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD) Scheme, 46 projects have been sanctioned in 26 States/UTs at the total sanctioned cost of ₹ 1629.15 Cr.  26 New sites have also been identified for development under the PRASHAD Scheme in 17 States/UTs. One project titled "Development of Infrastructure for Pilgrimage and Heritage Tourism in the State of Meghalaya," encompassing the development of pilgrim amenities at Nongsawlia Presbyterian Church, Nartiang Shakti Peeth, Aitnar Pool, and Charantala Kali Temple, in Meghalaya, was inaugurated at the 11th International Tourism Mart, Shillong 2023.

government tourism awards

  • Ministry of Tourism has revamped its Swadesh Darshan scheme in the form of Swadesh Darshan 2.0 with the mission to create a robust framework for integrated development of tourism destinations in partnership with the States/ UTs and  Local Governments for promoting sustainable and responsible tourism in the country and has identified 55 destinations across 32 States/UTs for development. The Scheme will implement sustainable and responsible tourism practices in various projects and initiatives and will encourage adoption of principles of sustainable tourism including environmental sustainability, socio-cultural sustainability and economic sustainability. In addition, the Ministry of Tourism has also issued guidelines for ‘Challenge Based Destination Development’, a sub-scheme under Swadesh Darshan 2.0. Under SD 1.0, Ministry has sanctioned  ₹ 5294.11 Crore for  undertaking  76 projects, out of these 64 projects are reported physically complete.
  • Ministry is imparting training to local tourism service providers under the project, Implementation of Amrit Dharohar, Strengthening Nature Tourism at Ramsar sites, launched by Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. The purpose is to train facilitators/guides/other tourism service providers for strengthening of Nature Tourism at Ramsar sites. Ramsar sites are Wetlands of International Importance, designated under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands as part of the international network of wetlands important for the conservation of global biological diversity and for sustaining human life through the maintenance of their ecosystem components, processes and services. Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has sought support from Ministry of Tourism on soft intervention related to skilling, upskilling, knowledge management of the human resources locally. The convergence of the two Ministries aims at supporting the development of Nature Tourism at the Ramsar Sites for preserving and enhancing the local cultural and natural resources. The focus is to shift the high-volume tourism at these fragile wetlands to high-value nature tourism, directly supporting conservation action, local communities and economies.
  • Ministry of Tourism (MoT) in collaboration with Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEFCC) launched an Alternative Livelihood Programme under the Amrit Dharohar Capacity Building Scheme-2023 on 8th December 2023 in Sultanpur National Park, a Ramsar Site in Haryana. Under this initiative, IITTM, an autonomous body under MoT, in collaboration with MoEFCC will build the capacity of local community members around different Ramsar sites in order to strengthen nature tourism at these sites and provide alternative livelihood to the local community. With the help of State Forest Deptt., a total of 30 participants have been identified from the local communities located around Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary to impart this training and subsequently certify them as nature-guides.

government tourism awards

  • Ministry of Tourism has developed new Incredible India thematic brand films for welcoming of foreign tourists to the country which have been specifically curated for the leading overseas markets. These brand films have been widely circulated within the domestic and international travel industry for wider usage in for promotional and marketing purposes.   Ministry of Tourism, Government of India has bagged Golden & Silver Star at the International ‘Golden City Gate Tourism Awards 2023’ in ‘TV/Cinema Commercials International and Country International’ Category at ITB, Berlin 2023. The Golden City Gate Tourism Multi-Media Awards are given annually in various categories related to the Tourism and Hospitality sectors. The ‘Golden City Gate’ is a creative multi-media international competition for countries, cities, regions and hotels. The entries received for the awards are judged by an international jury comprising film and tourism experts. The annual award ceremony takes place at ITB Berlin, the world’s leading tourism trade show. The Promotional films / television commercials received the awards were produced by the Ministry as part of its Post Covid Promotional Global Campaign on India reopening.

government tourism awards

Beena Yadav

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  • 2002 NSW Tourism Awards Winners Announced

government tourism awards

The state’s peak tourism organisation, NSW Tourism Industry Council , is excited to announce the winners of the prestigious NSW Tourism Awards for 2022.

Held this evening in iconic Luna Park Sydney’s Big Top, over 450 industry representatives gathered for the first time in three years to celebrate these outstanding tourism businesses.

The awards are managed by the NSW Tourism Industry Council powered by Business NSW, the state’s peak business organisation, and supported by the NSW Government via its tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW .

“The NSW Tourism Awards celebrate those tourism experiences that inspire visitors to #feelnewsouthwales and recognise those businesses who exemplify quality tourism,” said Paula Martin, Senior Director, NSW Tourism Industry Council.

“These businesses provide leadership in innovation, marketing and in the delivery of quality products and services. These are businesses who advance and promote the NSW and Australian tourism industry through consistent customer service and quality experiences to all.

“A highlight of this year’s awards program was the high number of first-time entrants (32), many of whom are very new businesses.

“They should all be very proud of this recognition of their business excellence, particularly after the ravages of Covid, floods and all off the back of the devastating Black Summer Bushfires,” Paula Martin said.

Tourism Minister Ben Franklin said the event highlighted the industry’s commitment to delivering premium products and experiences to all visitors to NSW.

“I’d like to congratulate all winners and finalists of the 2022 NSW Tourism Awards, who have shown a commitment to excellence throughout this year,” Mr Franklin said.

“It is an exciting time for our visitor economy, with domestic overnight visitor expenditure in NSW recently surpassing pre-pandemic levels.

"They should all be very proud of this recognition of their business excellence, particularly after the ravages of Covid, floods and all off the back of the devastating Black Summer Bushfires."

“The NSW Government is committed to supporting tourism operators, businesses and event owners that create jobs, boost regional economies and position NSW as a global destination.”

Hospitality and tourism entrepreneur Donna Carrier, one of the most passionate and hardworking tourism operators on the North Coast, was awarded the Dean Gorddard Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual to NSW.

The award is in recognition of her dedication and advocacy for tourism in her local and regional area, over the past 18+ years.

Riverside Holiday Resort Urunga was inducted into the prestigious NSW Tourism Awards Hall of Fame, for taking out top honours in Excellence in Accessible Tourism for the third year in a row.

Glenayr Farm Mudgee and Love Lord Howe were joint recipients of the Judges’ Tourism Star Award’, a special award to reward their tremendous resilience and innovation during a very challenging year.

Winners in the designated national award categories will represent NSW at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards to be held in Sydney, 17 March 2023.

About NSW Tourism Industry Counci l

Powered by Business NSW , the NSW Tourism Industry Council helps businesses operating in the Visitor Economy maximise their potential to ensure New South Wales remains the number one tourism destination in Australia.

Media enquiries: Paula Martin - 0414 901 777

Website: https://www.businessnsw.com/members/nsw-tourism-awards-2022/winners-2022

EDITORS’ NOTE: A full list of this year’s NSW Tourism Awards winners by category is outlined below.

2022 NSW Tourism Award Winners:

Major Tourist Attractions Gold: Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo Silver: The Australian Reptile Park, Somersby Bronze: The Big Banana Fun Park, Coffs Harbour

Tourist Attractions Gold: Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail, Port Macquarie Silver: Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary Bronze: Aussie Ark, Barrington Tops

Major Festivals and Events Gold: Bluesfest Byron Bay Silver: GLOW at Sydney Zoo

Festivals and Events Gold: Tumbafest Inc, Tumbarumba Silver: Bathurst Winter Festival Bronze: The Coffs Coast Food & Wine Festival

Ecotourism Gold: Sydney by Kayak, Lavender Bay Silver: Vision Walks - Eco Tours, Byron Bay Bronze: Tweed Eco Cruises, Tweed Heads

Cultural Tourism Gold: Local Sauce Tours, Sydney Silver: Old Dubbo Gaol Bronze: Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail, Port Macquarie

Excellence in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Tourism Gold: Wajaana Yaam Gumbaynggirr Adventure Tours, Coffs Harbour Silver: Bundyi Cultural Tours, Wagga Wagga Bronze: Bularri Muurlay Nyanggan Aboriginal Corporation, Coffs Harbour

Tourism Retail & Hire Services Gold: Sydney Harbour Kayaks, The Spit Bridge, Mosman Silver: Ask Roz Blue Mountains

Visitor Information Services Gold: Mudgee Region Tourism Silver: Bathurst Visitor Information Centre Bronze: Eden Visitor Information Centre, Sapphire Coast

Business Event Venues Gold: Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains by MGallery Silver: Fullerton Hotel Sydney

Tour and/or Transport Operators Gold: Tweed Eco Cruises, Tweed Heads Silver: Beyond Ballooning, Lovedale Bronze: Blue Mountains Stargazing

Adventure Tourism Gold: Balloon Aloft, Hunter Valley, Camden Valley, Mudgee and Byron Bay Silver: Sydney Harbour Kayaks, The Spit Bridge, Mosman Bronze: Beyond Ballooning, Lovedale

Tourism Marketing and Campaigns Gold: MidCoast Council: Destination Barrington Coast Silver: Shoalhaven City Council, Tourism Bronze: The Tweed Tourism Company

Tourism Restaurants and Catering Services Gold: Potager, Carool Silver: Bent on Food, Wingham Bronze: Antica Australis, Carcoar

Tourism Wineries, Distilleries and Breweries Gold: Courabyra Wines, Tumbarumba

Caravan and Holiday Parks Gold: North Star Holiday Resort, Hastings Point Silver: NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Resort, Central Coast Bronze: BIG4 Deniliquin Holiday Park

Hosted Accommodation Gold: Blueberry Hills on Comleroy, Kurrajong Silver: Belle Bois, Capertee Valley Bronze: Amaroo Valley Springs, Kurrajong

Unique Accommodation Gold: Zoofari Lodge, Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo Silver: Glenayr Farm Mudgee Bronze: Berger Houseboat Holidays, Tweed Heads

Self-Contained Accommodation Gold: Bandalong Cottages, Mudgee Silver: Peppertree Hill, Mudgee Bronze: Mt Warning Estate, Dum Dum

4 – 4.5 Star Accommodation Gold: The Byng Street Boutique Hotel, Orange Silver: Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains by MGallery Bronze: Wildlife Retreat at Taronga, Mosman

5 Star Accommodation Gold: Mt Hay Retreat, Berry Silver: Kalinya Estate, Bargo

New Tourism Business Gold: Italian Cooking Experience with Stefano Marvello, Bowral Silver: Navigate Expeditions, Sapphire Coast Bronze: Evamor Valley, Mudgee

Excellence in Food Tourism Gold: Margan Wines & Restaurant, Broke Silver: Food I Am, Wagga Wagga Bronze: Country Food Trails, Orange

Excellence in Accessible Tourism* Gold/ Hall of Fame: Riverside Holiday Resort Urunga Silver: Cocky Guides, Sydney Bronze: Sea Horse Diamond Beach

Local Government Award for Tourism* Gold: MidCoast Council: Destination Barrington Coast Silver: Central Coast Council - Destination Central Coast

Dean Gorddard Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual* Winner: Donna Carrier

Judges’ Tourism Star Award* Joint Winners: • Glenayr Farm, Mudgee • Love Lord Howe

Ground Swell 2022 Commendation presented by Take 3 for the Sea* From First Wave, Take 3’s tourism industry pilot project in 2021 through to the current 2022 Ground Swell Program, Take 3 for the Sea has engaged with 160 tourism businesses of all kinds. For the first time, Take 3 for the Sea commended three businesses, each of which have made significant contributions to visitor litter reduction under the program. Not only have they embraced the Take 3 philosophy, these businesses have shown leadership by taking ownership and action to prevent litter.

Commendations: • F.O.C.K. Festival of Canoe and Kayak, Gangurang, Kangaroo Valley • Niigi Niigi - Sealy Lookout, Coffs Harbour – a Ground Swell collaboration between Forestry Corporation, Wajaana Yaam Gumbaynggirr Adventure Tours and Treetops Adventure • Glenworth Valley Outdoor Adventures, Central Coast

* Does not progress to the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards

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DOT LAUNCHES PHILIPPINE TOURISM AWARDS

  • Post author By Regine Resureccion
  • Post date February 5, 2024
  • No Comments on DOT LAUNCHES PHILIPPINE TOURISM AWARDS

government tourism awards

To honor the excellence and continued support of industry stakeholders, institutions, and partners, the Department of Tourism (DOT) launched the Philippine Tourism Awards (PTA) to encourage friendly competition and, at the same time, further promote industry excellence.

“Today, we launch the Philippine Tourism Awards which celebrates excellence in the entire tourism value chain. Through the Philippine Tourism Awards, we aim to give recognition to institutions, individuals, pillars, changemakers, and trailblazers in the various sectors of tourism that have contributed greatly to the fact that tourism is now one of the strongest pillars of our economy-providing jobs to millions of Filipinos, providing much-needed livelihood and employment in communities across the country. By reviving this program that recognizes the work of our partners in the tourism industry, we foster the improvement of the quality of tourism services across the country, for indeed, that is the goal of the Department of Tourism: to ensure that we can elevate the status of tourism to be at par and globally competitive with our neighbors and the rest of the world,” Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said during the launching ceremony held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC).

“By reviving this program that recognizes the work of our partners in the tourism industry, we foster the improvement of the quality of tourism services across the country.”

“By recognizing these institutions, individuals, and enterprises that have gone the extra mile, overall, we also foster healthy competition among industry players themselves. And as we all know, with competition comes improvement in the quality of overall tourism services,” Frasco added.

The PTA is envisioned to become the highest and most prestigious citation in Philippine Tourism.

The reinvention of the former Kasama sa Lakbay Kaunlaran ng Bayan (KALAKBAY) Awards and Tourism Star Philippines is conceived to be the pinnacle and most esteemed accolade in the realm of Philippine tourism that will pay tribute to the past while recognizing the present and future achievements of the tourism industry as an economic driver.

According to the tourism chief, the PTA is also geared toward strengthening the partnership of the DOT with the stakeholders from the private sector, local government units (LGUs) as well as the media and recognizing their consistent professionalism and support to the tourism industry.

The program also seeks to honor the efforts of outstanding industry players and LGUs that have demonstrated excellence in promoting and developing the country’s tourism sector.

Set of awards

The inaugural PTA will have two major categories this year: the Philippine Tourism Pillar Awards and the Philippine Tourism Industry Awards.

As part of the DOT’s 50th founding anniversary, the DOT will honor tourism industry pioneers and institutions through the Philippine Tourism Pillars Awards. This is a one-time recognition program in celebration of the DOT’s 50th Anniversary. It seeks to show appreciation to individuals, enterprises, destinations, and organizations who started it all for Philippine tourism.

Specifically, entries under enterprise must be in a primary tourism enterprise continuous operation for 50 years or more; the individual should be someone with a continuous career in the Philippine tourism industry for at least 35 years.

This award shall be open to the public for nominations and be subjected to the validation of the DOT and knowledge partner PricewaterhouseCoopers (PWC).

Meanwhile, the Philippine Tourism Industry Awards will be a periodic national recognition program for both the private and public sectors involved in the development and promotion of Philippine tourism.

The prospective awardees are envisioned to be an embodiment of true Filipino hospitality and a contributor to socio-economic growth and environmental protection. For the pilot implementation, the industry awards will have five categories: institutional, individual, tourism product, media, and special awards.

Subject to industry trends and performance, the components of the PTA may vary, according to the tourism chief. The DOT shall issue an official notice on the roster of Award Categories for every Call for Applications.

Sustainability practices and equalization of opportunities until the grassroots level

In her address during the inaugural ceremony, Frasco emphasized how important inclusivity is for the industry, emphasizing her experiences as local chief executive before being appointed as tourism chief.

“These awards will not be just in Manila. We are spreading the good news of recognizing our partners in all our regions in the country, by making the awards both regional and national.”

“Notably, these awards will not be just in Manila. We are spreading the good news of recognizing our partners in all our regions in the country, by making the awards both regional and national,” the tourism head said.

Likewise, she emphasized that the set of standards set by the DOT aims to equalize opportunities both for emerging and lesser-known recognitions, as well as to strengthen partnerships with LGUs.

“This local perspective we sought to introduce, because I, myself, come from local government, and I’ve seen for myself that in cities and municipalities, barangays and provinces across the Philippines, there are tourism best practices that are truly worthy of emulation. They may not be as grand a scale as others, but certainly [they] are not lacking in heart and determination. These community-based tourism initiatives, we seek to recognize and acknowledge as well for truly, we can only claim success in the tourism industry if we can uplift not just a few of our destinations but as many as we can. That, we feel, is the essence and the purpose of what we are doing: to ensure as wide an opportunity as possible for our emerging and lesser-known destinations and products to be given recognition as we continue to recognize of course our tourism gems across the country,” Frasco explained.

She thanked partners both from the public and private sectors for their continued support of the DOT.

“We are also here to say thank you, to express our gratitude to our partners whom we are honoring, as we understand that recognitions and acknowledgments also build brand confidence,” Frasco concluded.

government tourism awards

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Quality Tourism Australia

The National Awards for the Tourism Industry

The Northern Territory is the Host Territory for the 2023 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards.

Join us on Friday 15 March 2024 for the inaugural Talking Tourism Business Forum followed by the prestigious 2023 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards, recognising and celebrating the best of the tourism industry from across the country.

government tourism awards

The Qantas Australian Tourism Awards are the tourism industry’s national standard of excellence. Finalists are chosen from each state and territory’s Gold Tourism Award winners and are then put to our panel of expert industry judges, where a winner of the nation is crowned. The winners are all shapes and sizes, serious and fun, and come from all walks of Australian life.

A wide and diverse range of tourism businesses are encouraged to enter – over 200 entrants from across the country will then reach the prestigious status of becoming a national finalist at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards.

2023 is the first year to see ‘Excellence in Accessible Tourism’ as a National category and we are thrilled to celebrate and reward those businesses catering to the accessible market.

Australia’s winners will be announced at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards Ceremony in front of an audience of industry leaders and peers. The prestigious Hall of Fame trophy is awarded to an entrant who has won the same category for three consecutive years.

The awards were first established by the Federal Government in 1985 to recognise and promote excellence in tourism from the cities to the Outback. The Australian Tourism Awards are now owned and managed by Australian Tourism Awards Inc, on behalf of the tourism industry.

government tourism awards

The Talking Tourism Business Forum brings tourism business operators together to enable effective peer-to-peer learning and development.

The purpose of the Business Forum is to engage and inspire those operating businesses within the tourism industry, support connections across sectors and the country. The Business Forum is thoughtfully curated so that each attendee should be able to take away some valuable learnings that they can implement into their tourism business to continue to grow and elevate their offerings.

Expect engaging talks and be prepared to be immersed in a learning environment where you’ll hear from the best of the best to uncover new ways to grow and elevate your business that will drive your business’ success.

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to revitalise your outlook and shape the future of your tourism business.

How to enter the Awards

To enter the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards:

1. Enter your state’s awards by writing a report for 1 or more categories 2. Win GOLD in a category 3. You will automatically be entered into the national awards for the category you won in

From there, your report will be judged against other States in the same category. Please see below for each state/territory award program.

Canberra Region Tourism Awards

South Australian Tourism Awards

NSW Tourism Awards

Tasmanian Tourism Awards

Northern Territory Tourism Awards

Victorian Tourism Awards

Queensland Tourism Awards

Western Australian Tourism Awards

government tourism awards

Judging Process

We pride ourselves on the integrity of the Australian Tourism Awards judging process.

The judging panel comprises a cross section of tourism industry experts, selected for their knowledge and experience. The panel is made up of 32 judges – 4 from each of the states and territories and is overseen by our Chair of Judges.

A Chair of Judges is selected for a 3 year term, after meeting rigorous criteria – based on experience and leadership qualities.

Our auditors, Ernst and Young provide professional and qualified services and act in an independent capacity to review judging decisions.

Australian Tourism Awards

ABN 31 095 626 976 Suite 207/208, 530 Little Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

(03) 9046 2339 [email protected]

Email Address

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  • Quality Tourism

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  10. Governor's Tourism Award Winners 2022

    THE GRAND CONNECTION: Governor's Tourism Award Winners 2022 Our Grand Connection profile series has always been about shining a light on the diverse group of people who drive our industry, at all levels. We believe understanding the approaches and experiences of our statewide tourism colleagues helps connect us all. For this month's special edition Grand…

  11. Travel, Tourism and Outdoor Recreation Frequently Asked Questions

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  13. 2024 Governor's Conference

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  14. DOT relaunches Philippine Tourism Awards

    The PTA, according to Frasco, aims to develop tourism consciousness in the country by seeking to recognize local tourism enterprises, local government units and individuals in the industry who have excelled in management performance and tourism service. The Awards will be held in collaboration with the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB).

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