The paradise island of Anguilla hosted the 21st Annual World Travel Awards, held December 7th at the island’s luxurious CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa.
A press release issued to The Anguillian stated that Anguilla was voted World’s Leading Luxury Island Destination, selected as the winner from among the top tier candidates within the category including destinations such as St Barts, Maldives, and Mauritius.
The press release continued: “For the first time in its rich history, Anguilla hosted the distinguished Award ceremony, after being chosen for the honor by the WTA to host leading luminaries within the luxury travel and hospitality industry.
“Award-winning actress Vivica A. Fox (“Independence Day”, “Batman & Robin,” “Why do Fools Fall in Love”) brought Hollywood glamour to the stage as she hosted the highly anticipated Gala Ceremony, headlining an impressive lineup of presenters and performers including legendary artist Bankie Banx, True Intentions and the cultural sounds of the Mayoumba Folkloric Theatre as the world descended upon Anguilla as the island was appointed the exclusive host of the World Travel Awards Grand Final. More than 300 international guests graced the island’s shores and sampled all its treasures. The distinguished attendee’s included dignitaries, luminaries and international media, as well as government and tourism-industry leaders who both set and maintain the standard of excellence in travel.
“The award gloriously confirmed Anguilla’s status as a world-class travel destination, now officially recognized as an elite destination by the global leaders in the tourism industry. The island’s attraction stems from its rising stature as the culinary capital of the Caribbean; it’s 33 immaculate beaches laden with turquoise hued waters and buttery soft sands; and it’s most distinctive characteristic – its people, known as the “world’s friendliest.” All winning attributes that cemented its position amongst registered voters.
“An impressive array of local businesses and attractions also headlined the winners lists landing top honors including: Anguilla’s Dolphin Discovery (Anguilla’s Leading Attraction), Anguilla Air Services (Anguilla’s Leading Air Service), Ani Villas (Anguilla’s Leading Ultra Luxury Villa), Scilly Cay (Anguilla’s Leading Private Island), CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa (Anguilla’s Leading Resort), Viceroy Anguilla (Anguilla’s Leading Hotel), and Calypso (Anguilla’s Leading Ferry Operator).
‘This past weekend’s festivities have left Anguillians both proud and elated by receiving such international acclaim. Anguilla’s Haydn Hughes, Anguilla Parliamentary Secretary with responsibility for Tourism and Sports commented: “Having individuals from all corners of the world; such as, Abu Dhabi, China, Hong Kong, Australia and Malaysia descend upon our island convening the most influential and distinguished travel professionals represents a great source of pride for Anguilla. The excitement of hosting the World Travel Awards Grand Final Gala Ceremony and witnessing our treasured island achieve coveted recognition by being voted the World’s Leading Luxury Island Destination has made the weekend successful beyond even our highest hopes. Hosting the WTA is the biggest singular event to grace our shores and one of the most significant tourism milestones in our history and for that we stand proud.’
“World Travel Awards President, Graham Cooke, said: ‘It has been a privilege to welcome the leaders of international hospitality to CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa and to the island of Anguilla. This event has been nothing short of sensational and my heartfelt thanks go out to all those who have made our Grand Final 2014 in Anguilla a huge success.’
The press release went on: “There was no greater moment for me than to watch the people of Anguilla stand together as one and cheer on their win. The island is one land and one people who together can continue to elevate Anguilla to it’s rightful place amongst the galaxy of the worlds’ leading destinations” said Marvet Britto President and CEO of The Britto Agency Anguilla’s Global Branding and Public Relations firm.
“The multi-award winning CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa winner of two distinguished awards during the ceremony, harbored an exceptional setting for the World Travel Awards Gala Ceremony. Situated in the crescent curve of Rendezvous Bay, CuisinArt offers luxurious suites and villas, an exquisite range of fine dining experiences, the highly revered Venus Spa, and a thrilling challenge for golf aficionados at the resort’s stunning 18-hole Greg Norman Signature Design Championship Course.
“The World Travel Awards Gala Ceremonies are widely regarded as the most celebrated event in the travel industry, a venue for government and industry leaders to connect with international print and broadcast media. Winning a World Travel Award has a proven track record of significantly raising a company’s profile, and escalating profitability and global recognition.” (See the photographs of the Anguilla Awardees in the post named: “ANGUILLA GETS 15 WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS”).
