Buga, Colombia.– Journalist Adrian R. Morales from Dominican Today won the eighth International Awards for Tourism Journalism, Open Passport 2024, held in Buga, Colombia. Other professionals from the Dominican also received awards.
The Dominican Republic had 13 nominations, sponsored by the World Organization of Tourism Journalism (OMPT). The ceremony took place at the Guadalajara Hotel in Buga, marking World Tourism Journalist Day.
Morales won in the Recognition of others category for his article Short Dominicans: Navigating on vacation in non-inclusive environments published in Dominican Today. The article was previously a Epifanio Lantigua national tourism journalism award finalist, sponsored by the Dominican Association of Tourist Press (Adopted).
Yenny Polanco Lovera, Adompretur’s president, received the award on Morales’ behalf. She congratulated Morales and emphasized the importance of passion. She also pointed out that Morales, a Dominican journalist of Cuban origin, has advocated for responsible tourism.
Other winners were Karla Alcántara Cruz for Social relevanceand Sergio Cid Solano for Originality. Additionally, other Dominicans were recognized for their work, including Juan de Dios Valentín and the media specializing in tourism such as Stand There Toursand Magazine Plus.
In this year’s event, the Lifetime achievements award went to Javier Pedernera from Argentina. The Grand Open Passport Award was given in three categories to Fields of the Jordan, Tourism in Gonçalves, and Long live Missions.
OMPT’s founding president Miguel Ledhesma, and general director Kevin Casanova announced the addition of a new category, Emerging Tourist Destination, and that Open Passport 2025 will be held in Colombia and Ecuador.
The winners’ statuette design was inspired by the famous Cat of the River, which is a symbol of Cali’s artistic and cultural spirit. What makes the statuette unique is the mop, a traditional artisan technique from southern Colombia.
Open Passport International Awards has always valued diversity, innovation, and social responsibility in tourism journalism. Their aim is to leave a legacy that grows with every new edition.
Find the complete list of Open Passport 2024 winners at the Periodismoturistico.org website.