The Department of Economic Development is pleased to announce the finalists and winners of the 2012 Tourism Awards.  This year’s presentation took place today, Friday 7th December, at The Claremont Hotel.

The Tourism Awards recognise the travel industry partners in the Isle of Man who make a significant commitment to and have supported the development of the Island’s visitor economy.  In order to be nominated for an award, entrants have to demonstrate excellence and innovation throughout their business, including their product, welcome, quality and service.
 
Nomination cards are displayed at locations around the Island and visitors and residents are asked to identify businesses that provide an enjoyable and reliable holiday experience.  People are also given the option to vote online on the www.visitisleofman.com website.  Over 1000 nominations were received for the 2012 Awards.
 
Geoff Corkish MBE, MHK, Political Member for the Department of Economic Development with responsibility for Tourism, said:  ‘The Tourism Awards celebrate the Island’s very best businesses in our visitor economy and play an integral part in the Department’s strategic objective of encouraging quality and service in the industry.  All of the finalists are winners in their own areas of expertise but, more importantly, they reflect the passion and enthusiasm shown for their customers in delivering services which play a valuable part in the quality of life of our Island.
 
‘It is a great pleasure to see the hard work and commitment of professionals in the industry being recognised in this way.'
 
The judging panel this year consisted of Ian Moncrief-Scott, Isle of Man STEP Co-ordinator; His Worship the Mayor, Councillor David Ashford and Mike Hennessy, Chief Executive of the Chamber of Commerce.
 
The finalists and winners in each of the nine categories are as follows:
 
Best Customer Service
The Rutland Hotel
Isle of Man Trike Tours
Winner: The Nautical Museum
 
Best Hotel Accommodation:
The Rutland Hotel
The Welbeck Hotel
Winner: The Ascot Hotel
 
Best Guest Accommodation
Thorncliffe Guest House
Silvercraigs
Winner: Monaville Guest Hotel
 
Best Self-Catering Accommodation
Old Lonan Church Farm
Groudle Glen Cottages
Winner: Laxey Harbour Chalets
 
Attraction of the Year
Isle of Man Ghost Tours
The Manx Museum
Winner: Isle of Man Trike Tours
 
Best Campsite and Hostel
Peel Campsite
Glenlough Campsite
Winner: Laxey Campsite
 
Best Eating Out Experience
Harbour Lights
Patchwork Cafe
Winner: Tapas Restaurante
 
Best Town or Village
Port Erin
Peel
Winner: Castletown
 
Event of the Year
Bowls Festival
Stockcar Racing (Onchan Raceway)
Winner: Walking Festival
 
The Department of Economic Development wishes to thank all businesses throughout the Island which have provided excellent customer quality and service to visitors.