The Bahamas is one of the most beautiful places on the planet, which makes it one of the top tourist destinations. Tourism is a key part of the country’s growth, and the Bahamas has done an amazing job of boosting tourism while protecting what makes it so great. This effort has now been recognized.
The islands of the Bahamas were recognized by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) as the best-in-class example of destinations harnessing the power of tourism for sustainable development.
The country won the top honor of the Americans region in the “Tourism and the Decade of Action” category at the 2021 UNWTO Tourism Video Competition. The winning entry put a spotlight on the Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park, which was the first protected marine-life park of its kind.
“It is with great pride that I celebrate this exceptional recognition from the United Nations World Tourism Organization,” said Deputy Prime Minster The Honourable I. Chester Cooper, Bahamas Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation. “I can say with much certainty that The Exumas is one of the most beautiful places on earth and a top destination for visitors coming to The Bahamas. The preservation efforts undertaken at the Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park are critically important in ensuring future generations can enjoy the natural magnificence of this area and all of The Bahamas.”
The “Torusim and the Decade of Action” category sought out example of countries using promotion videos and film to directly or indirectly highlight one or more of the 17 Global Goals outlined in UNWTO’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
The video about the Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park was one of the signatures experienced highlighted in a collection of stories on Bahamas.com. The video was shot on location and is a stunning two and a half minute boat tour that introduces viewers to the amazing geography and biodiversity, as well as captures The Bahamas’ long-time commitment to protecting tis natural resources, while also promoting sustainable tourism.
“This competition was designed to recognize the top visual storytellers from every global region, and so it is a great honor for our work to be named among the very best,” said Joy Jibrilu, Director General, The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation. “There are so many aspects of tourism that are important to promote, but to be lauded for our sustainability efforts among such a distinctive global community is particularly rewarding.”