PR – Grenada has been named the “PATWA International Travel Award” 2026 “Destination of the Year–Caribbean Experiences” in the category of destinations, by the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association (PATWA) International Travel Awards Council and its Board of Members.
Grenada’s Minister for Tourism, Creative Economy and Culture, Hon. Adrian Thomas, was also honoured, receiving the “PATWA International Travel Award” 2026 Tourism Minister of the Year for Sustainable Development in the category Excellence in Governance.
CEO of the Grenada Tourism Authority, Ms. Stacey Liburd, was awarded the “PATWA International Travel Award” 2026 PATWA Gold Award for Excellence in Destination Development (The Caribbean) in the individual excellence category.
The awards were conferred at the 26th and 2026 edition of the PATWA World Tourism Leaders’ Summit and the PATWA International Travel Awards at ITB, Berlin on March 4th, 2026.
They were handed over by the Secretary General of PATWA, Mr. Yatan Ahluwalia, along with Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Minister for Tourism in Jamaica.
Minister Thomas described the recognition as humbling, noting that it was being accepted not as a personal accolade, but “on behalf of the resilient people of Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique – a tri-island state committed to shaping the future of tourism with courage, authenticity and sustainability.”
Highlighting the importance of safety and stability in an increasingly uncertain global environment, the Minister said the tri-island destination continues to be recognised internationally as one of the safest places for travellers.
He noted that institutions such as the United States Department of State, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, and the World Travel & Tourism Council consistently acknowledge the strength of Grenada’s governance, security environment and tourism management frameworks. “Beyond the reports and advisories, what truly defines our safety is social cohesion — communities that care, citizens who welcome, and a culture grounded in respect,” Minister Thomas added.
He also reaffirmed Grenada’s commitment to advancing the tourism sector by: 
Deepening sustainable tourism frameworks.
Investing in youth, innovation and digital transformation
Strengthening regional and international partnerships
Ensuring tourism growth never compromises environmental integrity
The 2026 PATWA World Tourism Leaders’ Summit, themed “The Future of Tourism,” preceded the awards ceremony at ITB Berlin on March 4, 2026.
The PATWA International Travel Awards recognise governments, brands, organisations, ministers and individuals who demonstrate excellence in promoting and developing tourism across the global travel industry.
