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Latvian tourism awards, 2026Publicity image Today, 9:29 Business Authors: LSM English (Latvian Public Media) Latvia’s tourism industry awards “Person of the Year in Tourism” have been presented for the 21st time. This year, the award in the category “For Outstanding Contribution to the Development of Hospitality” was presented to entrepreneur Andris Kreislers, who has been organising the Christmas market at Dome Square for more than 20 years. The category "Entrepreneur/Manager in the Regions" was presented to Ilze Stabulniece, owner of the horse farm Klajumi. O

In total, awards were presented in six categories, and the ceremony took place during the opening of the international tourism exhibition Balttour 2026.

In the category "Entrepreneur / Manager in the Accommodation Business", the award was presented to Dace Š??le, Sales and Marketing Manager of Hotel J?rmala SPA (sic).

Commenting on the situation in the accommodation sector, Aivars Mackevi?s, founder of the award and Director of BalticTravelnews.com, noted that 2025 saw continued recovery and growth in Latvia's accommodation sector, with an increase in both guest numbers and overnight stays compared to 2024. Foreign tourists remained a significant share of visitors, particularly in Riga and other popular destinations, while seasonal fluctuations and summer occupancy challenges persist.

The award in the category "Entrepreneur / Manager in the Travel Agency and Tour Operator Business" was presented to Elena Serebrjakova, Head of Nikos Travel. In the category "Tourism Information Centre Manager", the winner was Je?ena Kijaško, Head of the R?zekne City Tourism Development Centre.

The category "Entrepreneur / Manager in the Restaurant Business" saw Kristaps S?lis, Chef of John Chef's Hall awarded the prize.

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