ST ANN, Jamaica— Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts Jamaica last Saturday hosted local travel agents during a special awards dinner, dedicated to honouring their efforts that have significantly contributed to the hotels’ growth and success.

The inaugural awards dinner, held at the hotel, recognised the pivotal role that the travel agents played in bringing guests to the hotel, especially locals and members of the Jamaican diaspora.

Bahia Principe Jamaica Assistant Sales Manager Taina Harris spoke on the valued relationship and the need to recognise the efforts of local travel agents.

“We wanted to ensure that our top producers know that we acknowledge, welcome and support our valued local travel agencies. Our focus and appreciation are not only extended to international partners but the work and results by our local partners is appreciated as well. Their dedication and hard work deserve to be celebrated, and we want to show them just how much we appreciate their contributions,” Harris explained.

“Since the pandemic [COVID-19] we have seen a large push from locals and we encourage our local agents. This is something we want to continue as we’re not overlooking the local market,” she added.

The awards ceremony featured categories, including Best Weddings, Group & Events Booking Partner, Top Producer Day Pass, Top Producer Individual Bookings and Top Producer 2024.

Among the winners were Leisure for Pleasure Holidays and Tours, KML Enterprise and 7th Heaven Jamaica Travel.

“Thanks to Bahia Principe for recognising our efforts in the industry as we’re truly appreciative. We’ve worked very hard over the years and continue to work in the local and overseas markets, we came out as number one and we’re grateful for the award,” said Judith James-Watts, CEO, Leisure for Pleasure Holidays & Tours.

Luxury Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts Director Alejandro Martinez also expressed appreciation for the agents.

“We feel very proud to have a partnership with you because without your support and assistance this cannot be possible. This event was created to say thank you and strengthen our collaboration as good business is on the way for 2025,” Martinez stated.