In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the tourism industry, Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, was presented with the PATWA (the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association) ‘Global Tourism Icon upon Minister of Tourism as a testament to his erstwhile dedication to promoting sustainable tourism practices, fostering cultural exchanges and advancing the Caribbean country’s tourism sector on a global scale.
A nonprofit international media organisation of travel writers committed to recognizing excellence in the industry, PATWA - founded in 1999 - honour Minister Bartlett to reaffirm his status as a visionary leader and trailblazer in the field of tourism. At the forefront of enhancing visitor experiences, building resilience and creating economic opportunities for local communities through the tourism industry, on accepting the award, he showed immense gratitude for the acknowledgment of him shaping the future of travel.
On receiving the award, he said: “It has been my life’s mission to ensure that the tourism sector in Jamaica flourishes in terms of arrivals, earnings, economic growth and resilience.
As he went on to highlight Jamaica’s reputation for its cuisine, music, and hospitality, he went on to say: “I am pleased that, through public-private sector partnerships, we have not only weathered the most devastating period in global tourism history but have elevated Jamaica as a premier travel destination and also set a benchmark for excellence in the global tourism landscape”.
The global recognition adds to the country’s growing list of awards celebrating its authentic and unique tourism offerings. The award comes on the heels of phenomenal tourism achievements for Jamaica.
In 2023, the island welcomed over 4 million international visitors and generated US$4.2 billion in earnings, cementing its status as a powerhouse in the global tourism landscape. The PATWA awards ceremony, a highlight of ITB Berlin, marked a pinnacle in the tourism calendar.
PATWA’s primary objective is to serve as a catalyst for responsibly developing the travel and tourism industry with a founding philosophy of supporting the sustainable development and growth of travel, tourism, hospitality, and aviation worldwide. Its works with governments, organisations and companies in both the public and private sectors adheres to the fundamental principles of UNESCO (the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation), the United Nations (UN), and UN Tourism.
Currently, Minister Bartlett is leading a Jamaican delegation at ITB Berlin, the world’s largest travel trade show. With more than 20 thousand participants expected this year, ITB Berlin is viewed as an important platform for the international tourism industry, facilitating knowledge sharing and networking.
