Thursday, June 5, 2025
The Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA) is once again preparing to roll out the red carpet for its top-performing travel trade partners through the much-anticipated 5th Global Piton Awards (GPA). This prestigious event honors the travel advisors and tour operators who have achieved exceptional success in promoting Saint Lucia as a top tourist destination, with a focus on those who have earned the rare distinction of top-producing room nights over the 2024 calendar year. The 2025 awards will be a remarkable milestone, highlighting Saint Lucia’s commitment to recognizing the vital role travel professionals play in the tourism sector.
A Prestigious Gathering of Global Travel Experts
In collaboration with Recommend Magazine and under the Saint Lucia Expert (SLEx) Programme, the Global Piton Awards will bring together an exclusive group of travel professionals from across the globe. The 2025 edition of the awards will see the participation of top sellers from key markets such as the United States (15 awardees), Canada (5 awardees), the United Kingdom (10 awardees), and the Caribbean (5 awardees). These esteemed travel advisors and tour operators will be immersed in the unique sights, sounds, and cultural experiences that make Saint Lucia one of the most sought-after destinations in the Caribbean.
The event will take place from June 15 to 19, 2025, providing the awardees with the chance to explore the island’s stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and luxury accommodations. As a global leader in tourism, Saint Lucia remains a favorite among travelers due to its mix of tropical beauty, adventure activities, and rich cultural experiences. The immersive experience will offer these travel trade partners the opportunity to understand firsthand what makes Saint Lucia such a coveted destination for tourists worldwide.
Highlights of the 2025 Global Piton Awards
The pinnacle of the programme will be a grand, invitation-only gala on June 17, 2025, where the top-performing partners will be honored with prestigious accolades, including:
- The Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence
- The Minister of Tourism’s Award for Excellence
- The SLTA’s Chairman Award for Excellence
These awards serve as a testament to the exceptional contributions of travel professionals who have significantly impacted Saint Lucia’s tourism sector.
Strengthening Global Partnerships
Louis E. A. Lewis, CEO of the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority, emphasized the significance of the Global Piton Awards, stating,
“The Global Piton Awards stand as a symbol of Saint Lucia’s pride, a tribute to our iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site twin peaks and to the remarkable heights our travel partners continue to reach.”
He further noted,
“Beyond recognising excellence, this programme strengthens relationships, renews passion for our destination, and inspires continued success among those who champion Saint Lucia across the globe.”
Immersive Experiences Await
Throughout their stay, awardees will engage in curated experiences that showcase the island’s rich culture and natural beauty. These activities include site inspections of renowned resorts such as Sandals Halcyon, Secrets St. Lucia Resort & Spa, and the Courtyard by Marriott. Attendees will also visit the Saint Lucia Mural at Pointe Seraphine and participate in hands-on workshops at Howelton Estate, including chocolate making, handbag crafting, and cold-press coconut oil production.
A Commitment to Sustainable Tourism
The SLTA continues to deepen its engagement with international travel advisors and tour operators, fostering meaningful partnerships that contribute to Saint Lucia’s robust tourism growth. These collaborations support the island’s sustainable tourism initiatives, aiming to preserve its natural beauty and cultural heritage for future generations.
Looking Ahead
As the 5th Global Piton Awards approach, anticipation builds for a memorable celebration of excellence in the travel industry. The event underscores Saint Lucia’s commitment to recognizing and nurturing the vital partnerships that drive its tourism success. With a diverse group of top-performing travel professionals converging on the island, the 2025 Global Piton Awards promise to be a landmark occasion in the celebration of travel and tourism.
