Denise Reid, Freelance Writer

WESTERN BUREAU:

The World Travel Awards have consistently ranked Jamaica among the highest echelons of travel destinations, and this year, Dolphin Cove etched its name in history with a coveted nomination in the category of 'Caribbean's Leading Nature Adventure Excursion Operator'.

Established in 1993 to acknowledge, award and celebrate the enormous achievements in all sectors of the global travel industry, it is perhaps the world's widest ranging travel awards ceremony.

With the Wall Street Journal dubbing the World Travel Awards as 'The Oscars of the Travel Industry' it is no wonder they say, 'Every year World Trade Awards fever hits the travel community around the world'.

In operation for a mere six years, Dolphin Cove is being nominated for the first time, much to the surprise and satisfaction of director Marilyn Burrowes, who told The Gleaner she was elated.

The category boasts seven nominees, including Jamaican attractions Chukka Caribbean and Watersports Enterprises. However, Burrowes is confident that Dolphin Cove will emerge on top as she asserts that "nobody can beat the attraction's beauty and friendliness of the staff".

The World Travel Awards is considered the best endorsement that any travel product could receive and Burrowes agrees that the event is the most prestigious honour they could receive, as it would be a victory not only for Dolphin Cove but for Jamaica.

Outclassing renowned cities

In 2006, Jamaica grabbed the coveted World Leading Cruise Destination Award, outclassing renowned cities such as Miami, Stockholm, Copenhagen, Barcelona and Genoa, while edging Barbados out and reclaiming the Leading Caribbean Destination prize, which that country held for the last two years.

Air Jamaica, for the ninth year, was awarded the Leading Caribbean Airline and Leading Caribbean Business Class awards, while the Jamaica Tourist Board took the Leading Tourist and Conventions Bureau title.

The government agencies were not the only winners, as Sandals Resorts International received 12 awards, which included the 'Caribbean's Leading Hotel Brand' for the 13th year, rising above highly-acclaimed brands such as Hilton, Wyndham, Hyatt and Ritz-Carlton.