One man’s vision  is transforming Tourism globally
Features
March 7, 2025

One man’s vision is transforming Tourism globally

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. This is what St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) is doing on the global stage, particularly where sustainable tourism is concerned.

More than 165 countries presented their tourism highlights and innovations in the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association (PATWA) International Travel Awards at the Internationale Tourismus Börse (ITB) Berlin, the world’s leading travel trade fair.

Since taking up the post of Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Sustainable Development and Culture in SVG) Honourable Carlos James has pushed towards transforming the region’s tourism product in a sustainable way.

And by maintaining focus, discipline and quality leadership, the Minister’s vision is creating an impact on the transformation of global tourism, this being evident in the fact that James, was recently honoured by the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association (PATWA) International Travel Awards Council for “Excellence in Governance – Sustainable Tourism” during their International Travel Awards at the Internationale Tourismus Börse (ITB) Berlin, the world’s leading travel trade fair, which took place from March 4 to 6, 2025.

The PATWA International Travel Awards are among the most coveted in the industry, celebrating destinations, governments, brands, and individuals that have demonstrated excellence in tourism leadership and development. Nominees undergo rigorous evaluation based on pre-set parameters to ensure only the highest standards of excellence are acknowledged.

Not only will James receive this prestigious award, SVG was also recognized by PATWA as the ‘Destination of the Year – Eco Adventures’.

This recognition, puts St. Vincent and the Grenadines as one of the leading countries pushing for an equitable balance between sustainable tourism and economic development, and exemplifies the strong global leadership of Minister James in advocating for greater focus on environmental sustainability.

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