Belize National Classification System For Hotels And Tour Operators
The Sustainable Tourism Program (STP) and the Quality Assurance Department at the BTB is in its preliminary stage of executing a "Belize National Classification System for Hotels and Tour Operators".� The system's overall goal is to define realistic classifications with clear definitions and minimum standards as basic mandatory licensing requirements for each recommended class.
"This is a great opportunity for Belize to take the lead in destination competitiveness," stated Terry Wright, Tourism/Environment Project Coordinator at the STP. "The firm Tourism and Leisure Europraxis has been awarded the consultancy to develop a classification scheme for accommodation facilities and tour operators throughout the country based on international standards but adapted to the country's reality.� It is intended that the scheme will guide and incentivize the hotel and tour operator industry by promoting excellence as a national priority. It will also serve as a valuable marketing tool."
The initial stages of developing the system include meetings with tourism stakeholders and a presentation of the framework of the system to tourism Industry Partners.� Following stakeholder consultation, there will be a verification, assessment and training period anticipated to begin in September 2012, with the establishment of a new cadre of BTB hotel inspectors focused on standards and quality.��� Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping of accommodation establishments within the country will also form a component of the consultancy scheduled for completion in January 2013.
For more information, contact Christy Mastry, Project Director at the STP via e-mail [email protected] or via telephone 223-2654. You can also contact Laura Esquivel Frampton, Acting Director of Tourism at the BTB via e-mail [email protected] or via telephone 227-2420.