COCONUT COURT was named the outstanding hotel while Josef's was voted the outstanding restaurant at the Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association's (BHTA) 2001 President's Awards at the Cliff restaurant on Saturday night. According to the BHTA, the outstanding hotel award is given to the property that best demonstrates a commitment to the pursuit of excellence embracing the environment, the community and the value and development of the human resource asset.
General manager James Blades accepted the award on behalf of Coconut Court, which was also lauded for its contribution to sustainable tourism. "Widely recognised and highlighted because of innovative commitment and dedication to environmentally safe practices, particularly as it relates to the marine environment, this hotel stands out as an example for others to follow," the BHTA said.

In the restaurant category, Josef's was awarded for its demonstrated ability to innovate and lead in an industry where many conform and follow. The BHTA described the practices of the restaurant as a benchmark for the industry and said its quality of service has captured international attention.
The Supporting Services Award went to Miller Publishing, while Atlantis Submarines Ltd. took the Tourism Services Award.
This year saw the addition of the Best Programme Environmental award which was presented to Green Globe certified Fairmont Hotels (Royal Pavilion and Glitter Bay).
Fairmont Hotels, the BHTA said, has displayed a commitment to highlighting the importance of the environment towards the sustainability of the tourism industry.
Among the individual awards, manager of Cobblers Cove, Hamish Watson, was bestowed with the President's Appreciation Award, while Dr. Colin Hudson was named an honorary life member of the BHTA.
Dr. Hudson is an environmentalist and the facilitator of Treading Lightly. Environmental manager of the Casuarina Hotel, Gill Whitley, was presented with the Caribbean Association of Sustainable Tourism (CAST) Conservation Award, which recognise the work of individuals in their dedication to environmental issues.