US, Oct. 12 -- Jamaica has emerged as one of the biggest winners at the 33rd World Travel Awards Caribbean and the Americas Gala, collecting 36 regional awards and 18 national honors in a celebration that highlighted both the island's tourism strength and its continuing recovery from Hurricane Melissa.

Held on October 11 at Princess Grand Jamaica Resort in Green Island, the ceremony brought together tourism leaders, hoteliers and industry stakeholders to recognize outstanding destinations, hospitality brands and travel businesses across the region.

For Jamaica, the evening delivered another milestone: its 20th consecutive recognition as the Caribbean's Leading Destination.

The Jamaica Tourist Board also secured the title of Caribbean's...