Over thirty hotels and resorts have been shortlisted for the 2016 ANZ Fiji Excellence in Tourism Awards scheduled for early February.

The applications have officially closed on 7 November

The Trustee and chair of Organising committee of the Awards Olivia Mavoa said: “This is a good reflection of the industry’s capacity in ensuring that Destination Fiji remains competitive in the market.”

Fiji’s tourism industry stakeholders have in their own ways invested and ingrained into their business practices, a sustainable approach to protect the natural and socio-cultural fabric of the local communities that hosts their businesses.

The sustainable outcome of this approach is that our natural environment and local communities also derive economic and cultural benefit from tourism.

This is the unique and proud aspect of our tourism industry.

Sustainability has been a growing area of importance to the industry and many operators are now investing in programs that seek to protect Fiji’s amazing natural environment.

A growing number of travellers are looking for destinations that respect the environment and proudly invest in sustainable business models.

Also the Trustees have been encouraged by the strong number of applicants within the ‘Individual’ category this year.

The Trustees introduced the three Individual Awards in 2015.

This was done with the deliberate intention to recognise the commitment and outstanding achievements of talented front liners and those involved in the behind the scenes operations through the Fiji Pride award.

“The Trustees also believes in bringing to the fore and the continued nurturing of our young talent who will eventually lead our industry in years to come through the Emerging Leader award,” Ms Mavoa said.

“Our industry will not be in its current position without the hard work and leadership of our industry leaders whom we recognise through the Tourism Leader award.

“These awards are by nomination only and it is encouraging to note the increasing number of nominations for all three categories.”

As Fiji’s highest mark of tourism distinction, the Awards is an opportunity to recognise and reward the excellent contribution of Fiji’s industry operators and players.

They together provide an amazing holiday destination for travellers and in doing so contribute to Fiji’s economy.

Edited by : Farzana Nisha

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