TOURISTS who received exceptional customer service or were delighted with a warm welcome they received at an attraction are being asked to get involved with the 2011 Tourism Awards.

Visitors and residents can nominate a tourism business, organisation or individual for a special award.

A record-breaking 2,300 nominations were received for last year's awards and this year organisers Isle of Man Tourism are hoping for even more.

Nomination cards can be found at the Welcome Centre in the Sea Terminal, Douglas, all Manx National Heritage sites, Ronaldsway airport, Curraghs Wildlife Park, railway stations, Douglas Town Hall and several Commissioners offices.

There is also an option to vote online at www.visitisleofman.com

Nominations can be made in the following nine categories:

Best Customer Service

Best Hotel Accommodation

Best Guest Accommodation

Best Self-Catering Accommodation

Best Eating Out Experience

Best Camp Site and Hostel

Best Attraction

Best Town/Village

Event of the Year

Economic Development Minister Allan Bell MHK said: "The Tourism Awards are designed to celebrate and recognise outstanding customer service and to reward the best, helping us to strive for improved standards and to set a benchmark for others to follow. 

"Tourism represents an important part of the Isle of Man economy and I hope the awards will highlight all the fantastic attractions and accommodation the Island has to offer."

Political member of the department responsible for Tourism Geoff Corkish MHK added: "I acknowledge the huge amount of effort being given by so many of our partners in tourism and I am looking forward to personally congratulating those award winners who have demonstrated and been recognised for their continuing commitment to driving up standards in their areas of business."

Visitors are also being asked to complete the 2011 Visitor Survey which is included on the nomination card.

This will help Isle of Man Tourism to learn more about how they booked their trip, choice of accommodation and attractions visited while here.

All visitors who fill in the survey will be eligible to enter a competition for the opportunity to win a luxury weekend break to the Island. 

Nominations for the Tourism Awards close on September 30 and the judging will take place shortly afterwards.