Jamaica had Strong Showing at African American Travel Seminar

Government’s efforts to attract the big spending black American market to the country’s shores, have been boosted by the island’s strong showing at the African American Travel Seminar held recently at the Miami Airport Hotel in Miami.

The seminar and luncheon was hosted by Westside Gazette Publishing and the Miami Dade Aviation Department, and included individuals and groups from African American affiliated organisations in the tri-county area of Dade, Broward and Palm Beach.

The Jamaican booth featured a range of attractions highlighting aspects of community heritage, exotic foods and spices indigenous to Jamaica, historical and cultural material and the diversity in the people as mirrored in the National motto.

The displays, which were mounted by the Jamaica Tourist Board, Air Jamaica Vacations and the Jamaica Information Service, were complemented by video representations from the three agencies.

JTB Sales Manager, Ruby Henry, told the audience that Jamaica was a unique and diverse vacation spot, which continued to be voted best destination by international buyers.

She cited the engaging activities, inspiring scenery and warmness and creativity of the Jamaican people coupled with the cultural and social activities, which persons could experience while visiting the island.

Meanwhile, Air Jamaica’s Regional Manager, Richard Lue, said that the industry continued to expand its services to the American minority market.

Echoing these sentiments, Jamaica’s Consul General to the Southeast United States, Ricardo Allicock said that, “as we continue to develop relationships with African Americans, that relationship could be furthered nurtured even through tourism.”

The Consul General also highlighted new developments to take place on the Island’s north coast with the construction of new hotels and expansion of other amenities.

In his remarks, Chris Mangos, Marketing Manager for the Miami Dade Aviation Department, noted that Jamaica was among the top ten international destinations out of the Miami International Airport.

Mr. Mangos said that as neighbours, he was encouraged to continue working diligently with the Jamaican travel industry and the travelling public to maintain a positive and lasting relationship between the destinations.