CHTA Announces Inaugural Observance of Responsible Tourism Day

The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) has announced the inaugural annual observance of its Responsible Tourism Day, slated for Thursday, May 23.

Responsible Tourism Day is among activities being undertaken for the 42nd staging of the CHTA Caribbean Travel Marketplace, to be held at the Montego Bay Convention Centre in St. James from May 20 to 23.

Speaking during a recent press briefing at the Jamaica Tourist Board in New Kingston, CHTA President, Nicola Madden-Greig pointed out that Responsible Tourism Day, which will coincide with Jamaica’s observance of Labour Day, is testament to the Association’s commitment to addressing pressing global issues such as climate change and sustainable development.

“We, at CHTA, recognise [that] as the issues of climate change and sustainable development continue to confront us, we must play our part in making and ensuring change. So, not only will we talk about business and market tourism but we will also be responsible stewards of our tourism communities,” she said.

Mrs. Madden-Greig informed that the CHTA has already confirmed three of five target projects for the Day, demonstrating its commitment to actionable change.

One project will be conducted in collaboration with the Montego Bay Marine Park, another will be undertaken in partnership with the SOS Children’s Village, while the third will showcase agriculture’s linkage with tourism, with delegates visiting Croydon Estate, which supplies fruits and vegetables to the industry.

“They will be planting fruit trees and harvesting and learning about different types of crops and the importance of sustainable agriculture. The other projects which we are finalising will focus on community tourism and supporting women and youth in tourism,” Mrs. Madden-Greig further indicated.

The CHTA President also informed that Responsible Tourism Day will become an integral part of the Association’s Marketplace.

“So, along with discussing the business of tourism at the forum, this will now be cemented in the DNA of our event,” she added.