In many ways, travel defines the Caribbean. It inspires, it creates, it entertains, it employs. It moves people and it moves souls. And travel and tourism are the Caribbean’s largest economic driver. To celebrate the world of Caribbean travel, we at Caribbean Journal have launched our inaugural Caribbean Travel Awards, honoring the best in travel and tourism across the region, from the Hotel of the Year to the most innovative tourism destination. Here are the winners.

Hotel of the Year – Four Seasons Resort Nevis

What makes a great Caribbean hotel? In a region where tourism is the largest economic driver, tourism has a special kind of meaning. And that means multiple roles for hotels: offering a great experience to guests and making a difference in their local communities. And the Four Seasons Nevis excels at both. It’s a simply wonderful luxury resort — indeed, as complete a property as you’ll find anywhere in the region. And as the largest private employer on tiny Nevis, the hotel understands its value and responsibility. In other words, the model Caribbean hotel, and our 2014 Caribbean hotel of the year.