Jamaica is experiencing a significant uptick in African-American visitors, which tourism officials and business interests regard as welcome news for the hospitality sector and a major boost for the economy. Tourism Minister, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, attributes this development to the strategic marketing initiatives of the Ministry and its relevant agencies, including the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), which have effectively targeted...

Known for its white-sand beaches, lush vegetation and friendly people, the parish of Portland is a significant contributor to the impressive tourism experience in Jamaica. Licence Processing Manager at the Tourism Product Development Company (TPDCo), Sheryl Lewis, tells JIS News that tourism in the eastern parish has been showing growth and is poised to make an even more noticeable impact...

The Government of Jamaica is expending billions of dollars on initiatives to strengthen capacity in the key growth sectors of agriculture and tourism, which together account for an estimated 18 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP). The development falls under the second phase of the five-year Rural Economic Development Initiative (REDI), which is being implemented by the Jamaica Social...

Globally-renowned airport concierge and lounge service company, VIP Attractions is poised to invest US$5 million into its local operations. The multi-award winning entity, which was established in 2011, has been engaged in transforming the traveller/visitor hospitality experience at the Norman Manley International Airport (NMIA) in Kingston and Sangster International Airport (SIA) in Montego Bay, since commencing operations at both locations....

The annual Christmas in July trade show is a major event on the Ministry of Tourism’s calendar that provides invaluable assistance to small businesses and artisans in the industry. This trade show, which celebrated its 10th anniversary this year, provides the opportunity for exhibitors to display their products, to advertise their goods and to connect with local and international buyers....

After a closely contested Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) Junior Tourism Minister competition final, yet another Manning’s School student, in Westmoreland, has emerged with the 2024 title. The annual public-speaking competition is open to students between 15 and 17 years of age, who must be members of their school’s Tourism Action Club (TAC). Student of the Westmoreland-based school, Taj Melbourne, bested...

When Nicola Madden-Greig took over the reins of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), the industry was reeling from unprecedented challenges brought on by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Under her leadership, Caribbean tourism not only recovered but flourished, becoming the fastest growing region in global tourism. The CHTA President, who also serves as Group Director of Marketing...

In the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, which impacted the island on July 3, the Issa Trust Foundation has offered assistance to staff members of Couples Resorts who have been affected. Notably, staff members at Couples Ocho Rios, Couples San Souci, Couples Swept Away Negril, and Couples Negril, have been offered support in the form of cash grants. Chairman of the...

The Tourism Product Development Company (TPDCo) is receiving high praises for the staging of its Tourism Quiz competition. The fifth edition of the competition recently concluded and saw Hosanna Preparatory School from St. James creating history, becoming the first school from the ‘tourist capital’ to emerge as the winner. They defeated Mount Airy Primary School from Westmoreland to walk away...