Central America takes its place in the Forbes Travel Collection awards in Spain
During the event, the region was featured prominently through two special mentions that highlighted the diversity and depth of its tourism offerings, showcasing Central America to a highly qualified international audience
Central America is positioning itself in one of the most influential editorial and visibility spaces in international tourism by being part of a special action promoted by Forbes Spain, through Forbes Travel Collection, a platform that highlights destinations aligned with the new priorities of the global traveler: authenticity, sustainability and high-value experiences.
Belize: Special mention as an emerging destination
One of the highlights of the event was the special mention given to Belize as an emerging destination, a distinction that was presented through the projection of an exclusive video during the ceremony.
Belize showcased itself as a destination that combines pristine nature, cultural authenticity, and a tourism offering deeply rooted in conservation, positioning itself as one of the Caribbean's new benchmarks for travelers seeking responsible and distinctive experiences. Its coral reef, natural landscapes, and multicultural identity reinforce its appeal as a rapidly growing destination on the international radar for high-value tourism.
This recognition consolidates Belize as one of the great revelations of regional tourism, capable of connecting with global trends without losing its essence.
Guatemala: mentioned as a sustainable destination
For its part, Guatemala received a special mention as a sustainable destination, in recognition of its leadership in integrating cultural heritage, environmental conservation and tourism development with community impact.
Guatemala was recognized as a leader in purpose-driven tourism, where historical and natural richness is combined with community-based tourism initiatives, environmental protection, and the appreciation of living traditions. This approach has allowed the country to establish itself as a regional model of sustainability, offering experiences that generate tangible benefits for communities and the land.
The mention reaffirms Guatemala as a committed, coherent destination aligned with the values that define global tourism today.
A regional showcase: Central America as an invitation to discover
As part of the event, an exhibition with a travel and tourism theme was also developed, in which all the destinations of Central America were represented, conceived as an open invitation to discover the diversity of experiences that the region offers.
This exhibition allowed Central America to be presented as a comprehensive destination, where it is possible to combine nature, culture, heritage, gastronomy and authentic experiences within short distances, reinforcing the regional narrative and the potential of multi-destination travel.
In this context, the event brought together prominent figures from the international tourism sector, including Natalia Bayona, Executive Director of UN Tourism, and Jordi Hereu, Minister of Industry and Tourism of Spain, which demonstrated the high institutional level and strategic relevance of the meeting.
At the ceremony, Iberia was recognized as Best Airline, an award received by Marco Sansavini and Ignacio Quintana. Also participating were Raquel Melis Cerdan and Alejandra Agudelo from Avianca, as well as Carlos Garrido de la Cierva from Ávoris, key partners for Central America's positioning in the Spanish market.
Central America's presence in the Forbes Travel Collection is part of a joint action promoted by the Central American Tourism Promotion Agency (CATA) and Forbes Spain, aimed at positioning the region's destinations in high-impact and internationally credible editorial spaces.
Forbes is one of the world's most influential publishing brands, reaching over 150 million people each month through its multiplatform ecosystem, which includes digital and print editions, social media, and specialized events. Furthermore, the brand boasts over 100 million social media followers globally, solidifying its position as a key trendsetter in travel, tourism, and lifestyle for high-value audiences and decision-makers.
With these actions, Central America strengthens its presence in top-level spaces, projecting itself as a region that combines diversity, sustainability and authentic experiences, and consolidating its place in the conversations that are redefining tourism on a global scale.
Source: Visit Centroamérica