Patricia Affonso-Dass, the Group General Manager of Ocean Hotels Group in Barbados, has been honored as the Caribbean Hotelier of the Year by the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA). This prestigious award recognizes her exceptional leadership and dedication to the hospitality sector, emphasizing her substantial impact on both Barbados and the broader Caribbean region.
Born in Dominica, Affonso-Dass’s Caribbean heritage is rich and diverse, having lived in Trinidad and Antigua before settling in Guyana, where she was raised. For the past 22 years, she has called Barbados home. Her academic journey led her to Florida International University, where she earned a degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management.
With over three decades in the industry, her career began with CHTA (previously CHA, linked with the Caribbean Hospitality Training Institute), and she played a pioneering role in Guyana, managing an eco-resort and co-founding the Guyana Hotel and Tourism Association, where she also served as an early president. Currently, as the head of Ocean Hotels Group, her commitment to excellence and elevating Caribbean tourism standards remains unwavering.
Affonso-Dass is a firm advocate for the transformative power of local hotel and tourism associations. She has served as President of the Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association and has been actively involved in regional industry development, serving on the Board and Executive Committee of CHTA. Her peers later elected her as CHTA President.
During her tenure as CHTA President from 2018 to 2020, she adeptly managed the aftermath of major hurricanes and the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her leadership was crucial in shaping tourism policy and fostering collaboration among industry stakeholders during these trying times.
Vanessa Ledesma, CHTA’s Acting CEO and Director General, commented, “Patricia’s exceptional leadership was instrumental in steering the association through this period of uncertainty and recovery. Her deep-rooted support for the development of Caribbean people has been exemplified throughout her career, as she’s discovered and developed countless local talent, mentoring and guiding them, with many moving on to positions of senior management and leadership in the industry.”
Under the strategic guidance of Patricia Affonso-Dass, Ocean Hotels Group has emerged as a beacon of hospitality excellence in Barbados. Her hands-on approach and visionary leadership have been instrumental in the successful management of properties such as O2 Beach Club & Spa, Sea Breeze Beach House, and The Rockley. Each of these establishments provides guests with a unique experience deeply rooted in Bajan authenticity, ensuring that their stay is both memorable and enriching.
Renée Coppin, Chairman of the Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA), remarked, “Patricia’s commitment to service and excellence is unmatched. Her leadership has not only elevated Ocean Hotels Group but has also positively impacted the wider Caribbean tourism landscape.”
Beyond her professional endeavors, Patricia Affonso-Dass has been a relentless advocate for the hospitality industry, serving in numerous capacities within the Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA). As President, she played a crucial role in shaping tourism policy and promoting collaboration among industry stakeholders.
The Caribbean Hotelier of the Year Award, one of the most prestigious accolades granted by the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), acknowledges exceptional performance in Caribbean hotel operations. This award celebrates outstanding achievements in resort operations, food and beverage management, marketing and sales, resort maintenance, staff training and motivation, innovative management practices, environmental sustainability, community involvement, and active participation in national and regional lodging industry associations.
