The U.S. Virgin Islands has received the “Destination of the Year” award from Caribbean Journal, a leading digital travel news publication. The USVI captured the top spot in the 7th edition of the “Caribbean Travel Awards,” while The Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas was named “Caribbean Hotel of the Year.”
The luxury resort, which reopened in November 2019 following a period of extensive enhancements after the 2017 hurricanes, was recognized for its continued high level of service despite the challenges presented by the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. It was also lauded by Caribbean Journal’s editors for “setting a new standard for health, safety and Caribbean hospitality in the process.”
“These accolades from Caribbean Journal validate the passionate efforts of our entire team as we continue to work around the clock to promote safe travel and to welcome visitors to our islands,” said Joseph Boschulte, commissioner of Tourism of the USVI. “As we continue to carefully navigate the pandemic, we are very hopeful to see a full rebound of our bread-and-butter tourism industry in 2021 and beyond.”
The U.S. Virgin Islands was acknowledged for being a model for tourism re-openings around the region, launching a “region-leading travel portal” and a new brand campaign for St. Croix while rekindling interest in hotel development, which is taking place under the leadership of Gov. Albert Bryan Jr., Lt. Gov. Tregenza Roach, Commissioner Boschulte and CEO of the Virgin Islands Economic Development Authority Wayne Biggs Jr.
For more information, visit www.caribjournal.com/2020/12/14/caribbean-travel-awards-2021-winners.
