Spanish Tourism Leaders Awarded Honorary MBEs for Protecting British Visitors

Two prominent figures from Spain's tourism and hospitality sectors have been honored with honorary MBEs by King Charles III. Gabriel Escarrer, chairman and CEO of Meliá Hotels International, and José Luis Benítez, president of Spain Nightlife and director of institutional relations at Palladium Hotel Group, received the recognition for their efforts in enhancing the safety of British visitors and bolstering ties between Spain and the United Kingdom.

Escarrer's appointment recognized his dedication to responsible tourism in the Balearic Islands, particularly his initiatives aimed at safeguarding the hundreds of young British tourists who flock to the islands each year. By investing in public awareness campaigns and collaborating with both governmental bodies and private businesses, he facilitated the implementation of measures to minimize serious incidents involving British visitors.

His endorsement of the British Government's Stick With Your Mates campaign also played a pivotal role in increasing its reach among young people, further contributing to safer nightlife experiences.

Escarrer's honor also acknowledged Meliá's substantial investment in the UK over 25 years, totaling over £400 million, which resulted in the creation of thousands of jobs. He expressed deep gratitude for the award, acknowledging that the United Kingdom had been instrumental in Meliá's history and growth. Benítez, on the other hand, was recognized for his contributions to nightlife safety in Ibiza and the protection of British holidaymakers from sexual harassment, assault, and drink spiking.

Through his roles at Palladium Hotel Group and Spain Nightlife, he championed staff training, enhanced security protocols, and preventive measures across sectors of the hospitality and nightlife industries. As a former president of the International Nightlife Association, Benítez expanded these standards beyond Spain's borders. He actively supported the Stick With Your Mates campaign, ensuring its safety messages reached over 1.5 million young individuals, and played a crucial part in garnering support from governmental authorities and tourism businesses.

Both honorees were commended by British Ambassador to Spain Alex Ellis for their significant contributions, with Escarrer praised for his extraordinary commitment to British visitor safety and his role in strengthening economic relations through Meliá's ongoing investments in the UK. Benítez was lauded for his efforts in making Ibiza a safer destination for British tourists, thanks to his close collaboration with authorities and tourism enterprises.

The awarding of these honorary MBEs underscores the vital importance of cooperation between the British Government and Spain's tourism industry in ensuring safer holidays for millions of British nationals visiting the country annually.