It’s always a treat to hear about places that truly get it when it comes to travel. The Bahamas, for its third year running, just celebrated some incredible people and places with its Travel and Sustainability Awards. These awards, championed by Caribbean Journal, really shine a light on why this archipelago is more than just pretty beaches. They honor those building a kinder, more thoughtful future for tourism.
I mean, imagine being recognized in one of 24 categories, from where you lay your head at night to what you eat, and even for your individual brilliance. It tells you a lot about the vibrant community thriving there.
A Warm Bahamian Welcome, Sustainably Speaking
The Bahamas welcomed a staggering 11.22 million visitors in 2024. That’s a record-breaker! And as more and more people discover its charm, the islands are doubling down on something super important: sustainable tourism. This isn’t just a buzzword here; it’s a living, breathing commitment.
Think about it: from dedicated teams working to restore coral reefs to hotels designed with the environment in mind, the winners of these awards are the unsung heroes. They’re the folks ensuring that the Bahamas isn’t just a world-class destination today, but for generations to come. They truly showcase the best of what the islands offer.
Prioritizing Tomorrow, Today
I heard that Deputy Prime Minister I. Chester Cooper, who also handles Tourism, Investments & Aviation for the Bahamas, has a fantastic perspective on this. He reportedly expressed that the continuous growth of tourism speaks volumes. It’s not just about the islands’ natural beauty or the genuine warmth of the Bahamian people. It’s also about a steadfast commitment to building a tourism sector that is both responsible and resilient. He believes that focusing on sustainability is absolutely crucial for preserving the destination, ensuring it remains extraordinary for everyone to enjoy, now and in the future.
It sounds like a powerful message, doesn’t it? It’s inspiring to see leadership so focused on long-term stewardship.
The Voices of Nearly 50,000
What’s really cool about these awards is who gets to vote. We’re talking about almost 50,000 people—visitors who’ve experienced the magic, industry pros who know the ins and outs, and local Bahamians who live and breathe it every day. Their collective input makes these awards truly meaningful. It’s not just a panel; it’s the people’s choice!
Let’s dive into some of the stars of the show for the 2025 Bahamas Travel and Sustainability Awards:
Celebrating Excellence: The 2025 Award Winners
Destination of the Year: Nassau Paradise Island. This really highlights the vibrant heart of the Bahamas as a top choice for travelers.
Best Beach in the Bahamas: Pink Sand Beach, Harbour Island. If you haven’t seen photos, you should. It’s truly a natural wonder and a must-visit. Check out Harbour Island’s Pink Sand Beach for a glimpse of its beauty.
Best Luxury Resort in the Bahamas: The Cove at Atlantis Paradise Island. When you think of luxury in the Bahamas, Atlantis often comes to mind, and The Cove certainly represents that high-end experience.
The Cove at Atlantis
Best Boutique Hotel in the Bahamas: Graycliff Hotel. For those who prefer a more intimate and unique stay, Graycliff Hotel stands out.
Best Restaurant in the Bahamas: Graycliff Restaurant. It’s no surprise that a hotel known for its charm also houses a celebrated dining experience. You can explore their culinary offerings at Graycliff Restaurant.
Best All-Inclusive Resort in the Bahamas: Sandals Royal Bahamian. All-inclusive resorts offer a seamless vacation experience, and Sandals Royal Bahamian leads the way.
Sustainable Hotel of the Year: Atlantis Paradise Island. It’s wonderful to see a large resort like Atlantis making significant strides in sustainability, showing that luxury and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.
Sustainable Destination of the Year: Exuma. The Exumas are famous for their stunning waters and natural beauty. It’s fantastic that Exuma is recognized for its commitment to sustainable practices.
Best Airline in the Bahamas: Bahamasair. Connecting the islands is vital, and Bahamasair is clearly doing a great job.
Best Marina in the Bahamas: Valentines, Harbour Island. For those who explore by sea, a top-notch marina is essential. Find out more about Valentines on Harbour Island.
Best Cruise Line in the Bahamas: Royal Caribbean Cruise Line. Cruising is a popular way to experience the Bahamas, and Royal Caribbean is a favorite among voters.
Best People to People Host/Hostess: Katherina and Victor Cooper – Exuma. This award really highlights the genuine warmth and hospitality of the Bahamian people. It’s about building meaningful connections.
Best Bar in the Bahamas: Dilly Club, Paradise Island. A great spot for a refreshing drink and good company. Discover The Dilly Club on Paradise Island.
Best Experience/Attraction in the Bahamas: Boating in Exuma. It’s no secret that the waters of Exuma are incredible, and experiencing them by boat is truly unforgettable.
Community Tourism Award: Nassau Straw Market. The Nassau Straw Market is a cultural cornerstone, supporting local artisans and a vibrant community.
Environmental Conservation Award: Coral Vita, Grand Bahama. This is an incredibly important recognition. Efforts like those by Coral Vita on Grand Bahama are critical for the health of our oceans.
Best Taxi Driver in the Bahamas: Cheryl Cambridge, Nassau. A friendly and reliable taxi driver can make all the difference in a travel experience. Hats off to Cheryl!
Best Chef in the Bahamas: Jamal Small. Culinary talent is a huge part of any destination, and Chef Jamal Small is clearly making an impact.
Bahamas Hotel Executive of the Year: Audrey Oswell, Atlantis Paradise Island. Leadership in the hospitality sector is vital, and Audrey Oswell’s work at Atlantis is being recognized.
Sustainable Tourism Leadership Award: Lakeshia Anderson Rolle. It’s inspiring to see individuals leading the charge in sustainable tourism, setting an example for others to follow.
Best Fishing Lodge in the Bahamas: Bimini Big Game Club. For fishing enthusiasts, a great lodge is key, and Bimini Big Game Club is a clear winner.
Best Bartender in the Bahamas: Marv Cunningham. A master of cocktails can truly elevate an evening.
Best Conch Salad in the Bahamas: Goldie’s Conch House, Nassau. This is a classic Bahamian dish, and it’s great to see a local spot getting recognition for serving the best.
Best Cocktail in the Bahamas: Bahama Mama. An iconic island drink, and clearly a crowd favorite!
A Vision for the Future of Bahamian Tourism
Latia Duncombe, the Director General of the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation, shared some thoughts that really resonated with me. She highlighted how important it is to applaud the vision and dedication of those recognized. Their work in driving sustainable tourism across the islands is truly commendable. She emphasized that their innovation and passion are crucial for preserving the natural environment, uplifting local communities, and ultimately enriching the experiences of millions of visitors each year. It’s clear they understand the interconnectedness of it all.
Alexander Britell, the Editor and Publisher of Caribbean Journal, also weighed in. He pointed out that the Bahamas consistently sets the bar for sustainable tourism in the wider region. He mentioned that these awards are a proud way to highlight the individuals and places whose creativity and dedication are actively shaping the future of Bahamian tourism. He also noted that it’s a chance to celebrate the destination’s significant leadership on a global scale. It sounds like they’re truly proud to be a part of this recognition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Bahamas Travel and Sustainability Awards?
These annual awards, hosted by Caribbean Journal, recognize and celebrate outstanding stakeholders, industry partners, and leaders in the Bahamas who excel in various categories related to travel and sustainable tourism. They aim to highlight those making a positive impact on the islands’ tourism sector and environment.
How are the winners chosen?
Winners are chosen based on votes from a broad audience, including nearly 50,000 visitors, industry professionals, and local Bahamians. This inclusive voting process ensures that a wide range of perspectives contributes to the selection of the awardees.
Why is sustainability important for Bahamian tourism?
Sustainability is vital for Bahamian tourism because it ensures the long-term well-being of the islands. This includes protecting their pristine natural environment, supporting local communities, and maintaining the authentic experiences that attract visitors. It’s about balancing economic growth with environmental and social responsibility.
What kinds of categories are included in the awards?
The awards cover 24 diverse categories. These range from lodging and gastronomy, such as Best Luxury Resort and Best Restaurant, to individual achievements like Best Chef and Best Taxi Driver, and even broader recognition for sustainability efforts like Sustainable Hotel of the Year and Environmental Conservation Award.
Who hosts the Bahamas Travel and Sustainability Awards?
The awards are hosted by Caribbean Journal, a leading online travel magazine focused on the Caribbean region. They play a significant role in promoting and recognizing excellence within the industry.
Can I visit some of the award-winning locations?
Absolutely! Many of the award-winning locations, like Nassau Paradise Island, Pink Sand Beach, several resorts, and restaurants, are popular tourist destinations. You can plan a visit to experience them firsthand and see why they received such accolades.
What is the significance of the “People to People” award?
The “Best People to People Host/Hostess” award highlights the incredible hospitality and genuine connections that Bahamians offer to visitors. It recognizes individuals who go above and beyond to provide authentic cultural exchanges, which are a cherished part of the Bahamian travel experience.
Plan Your Sustainable Bahamian Adventure Today!
Feeling inspired by these incredible efforts and award-winning destinations? It’s clear that the Bahamas is not just a place of unparalleled beauty but also a leader in thoughtful, sustainable travel. Why not discover it for yourself? Book your trip, support eco-conscious businesses, and immerse yourself in the warmth of the Bahamian people. Your sustainable adventure in paradise awaits!
References
Caribbean Journal
Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation
Nassau Paradise Island
Bahamas.com
Atlantis Bahamas
Bahamasair
Valentines Harbour Island
Royal Caribbean
Coral Vita
Bimini Big Game Club
