The Bahamas has been honoured as a Partner Destination and Event Partner at the 26th edition of the PATWA World Tourism Leaders Summit and PATWA International Travel Awards, held during ITB Berlin in March 2026. The destination received four major accolades at the official ceremony, recognising excellence in sustainability, destination management, and lifetime contribution to the tourism industry.
The awards were presented as part of the PATWA International Travel Awards programme, organised by the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association (PATWA), which recognises governments, organisations, and individuals who demonstrate leadership and impact across the global tourism sector.

The Director General of The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation represented the destination at the summit, positioning The Bahamas prominently within global tourism dialogue alongside ministers, policymakers, industry leaders, and international media.

The Bahamas was recognised across four distinguished categories:

• Tourism Minister of the Year, Sustainability: I. Chester Cooper
• Destination of the Year, Lifetime Experiences: The Bahamas
• PATWA Gold Award, Destination Management, Caribbean: Director General Latia
  Duncombe
• PATWA Gold Award, Lifetime Achievement in Tourism: Sir Baltron Bethel
• PATWA Destination Award, Vibrant Beaches: The Bahamas
• PATWA Gold Award, Excellence in Destination Promotion, (Caribbean): Joy
  Jibrilu
  Reflecting on the milestone, Latia Duncombe, Director General, Bahamas Ministry of
  Tourism, Investments & Aviation, said these awards are a powerful testament to the
  dedication, vision, and tireless work of the nation’s tourism family.

“To be recognised at ITB Berlin alongside leaders from across the global tourism industry is
meaningful for The Bahamas,” she said. “These awards reflect the strength of our tourism
sector and the collective efforts of many across our islands who contribute to the visitor experience. I also congratulate The Honourable I. Chester Cooper and Sir Baltron Bethel on their well-deserved recognition.”

She noted that to be recognised on the world stage at ITB Berlin, in categories spanning sustainability, destination excellence, management leadership, and lifetime achievement, reflects the depth of The Bahamas’ commitment to delivering world-class experiences.

Ms. Duncombe added that the Ministry is incredibly proud of The Honourable. I. Chester Cooper and Sir Baltron Bethel, whose contributions continue to elevate The Bahamas as a leading global destination, emphasising that the recognition belongs to every Bahamian who plays a role in welcoming the world to its shores.

The recognition underscores The Bahamas’ continued leadership in sustainable tourism development, strategic destination management, and the delivery of diverse, high-value visitor experiences across its 16 major islands.

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