MADRID; Spain; Wednesday January 22, 2025: Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett has indicated that a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Spain's Ministry of Tourism is in the works. This MOU would mark a significant step forward in international tourism cooperation between the two nations.

The agreement will establish a framework for collaboration across several key areas crucial to tourism development. The partnership will focus on four strategic pillars: gastronomy, human capital development, tourism resilience and sustainability, and technical support through staff exchanges.

The high-level discussion was held yesterday (January 21) at the Ministry of Industry and Tourism in Madrid, Spain with Minister Bartlett and Secretary of State for Tourism, Spain, Mrs. Rosario Sánchez Grau.

"This partnership represents a milestone in Jamaica's tourism evolution," said Minister Bartlett. "In terms of gastronomy, by combining Jamaica's vibrant culinary heritage with Spain's world-renowned gastronomy expertise, we're creating unprecedented opportunities for knowledge sharing and cultural exchange," he added.

The collaboration will facilitate the exchange of best practices in sustainable tourism management, with both countries committed to developing resilient tourism models that can withstand global challenges. The staff exchange programme will enable tourism professionals from both nations to gain hands-on experience in their respective markets, fostering innovation and professional growth.

Key areas of cooperation include the development of culinary tourism initiatives and gastronomy programmes; implementation of sustainable tourism practices and resilience strategies; professional development and training programmes for tourism sector workers; exchange of technical expertise through bilateral staff placement programmes.

“This will be a strong area of collaboration for Jamaica’s tourism sector as both countries exchange ideas geared towards improving both country’s tourism products. Global disruptions have proven that we are stronger together and I look forward to this new partnership,” added Minister Bartlett.

The partnership is expected to strengthen both countries' tourism sectors while creating new opportunities for cultural exchange and economic growth.

NEGRIL, Westmoreland, Jamaica; Tuesday, January 21, 2025: The long-standing problem of water shortage that has plagued the Negril tourist resort and surrounding areas is to be addressed with a US$221 million government investment in creating a water supply system for the area.

Making the announcement to loud applause from stakeholders, Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett said the required water would come from connecting sources such as the Bulstrode Treatment Plant and Roaring River with Trelawny’s Martha Brae River, providing adequate water supply all the way to Llandilo. He said the procurement process had begun and construction for the laying of the pipes would commence in three months.

He further explained that Negril accounted for approximately 20% of Jamaica’s stopover visitors, adding that the water supply project, which would be the biggest investment by the government in water development, was aimed at giving back to the town. 

Mr. Bartlett made the announcement recently during his keynote address at the official opening of the innovative attraction, the Red Stripe Experience at Rick’s Café in the famed Negril Westend. The official opening of the Red Stripe Experience celebrated Rick’s Café 50th year of operation and a 25-year relationship with Jamaica’s world-renowned beer.

“This collaboration is set to create some 146 new jobs, bring in 60,000 additional visitors and generate about US$1.5 million in annual revenue. But beyond these figures, the Red Stripe Experience is creating opportunities for local vendors, artists and musicians to showcase their talents and share in tourism's benefits. This is how we build sustainable tourism – by ensuring our communities grow along with our visitor numbers,” Minister Bartlett stressed.

Mr. Bartlett welcomed the addition of the Red Stripe Experience to Jamaica’s list of attractions, noting: “Through art, music and digital displays, locals and visitors alike will journey through the almost 100-year history of this iconic brew, all while experiencing the authentic Jamaican culture and people that make our island unique.”

Minister Bartlett pointed out that since 2017 the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF) had committed over J$500 million to various projects in Negril, including road rehabilitation, beautification efforts, drain cleaning and the renovation of the Negril Fire Station.

Mr. Bartlett highlighted other major projects on stream that will benefit Negril, including the development of the Royal Palm Reserve into an eco-tourism destination supporting sustainability; the revitalization of the Negril Beach Park to enhance its appeal; upgrading of the craft and artisan village; the Lucea bypass road from Hopewell, and an international airport. 

Minister Bartlett also revealed that ground is to be broken “in this quarter for the 1,000-room Viva Wyndham Hotel in Orange Bay” and that “in addition to infrastructure we’re talking about, we’re going to be building and expanding the capacity in the area to drive more visitors here.”

Meanwhile, CEO of Rick’s Café, Steve Ellman disclosed that “the number of tourists we get each year is growing; I’m proud to announce, especially for tourism, we served 394,000 people in 2024.” In a pledge to continue to support the tourism sector and give back to the wider community, Mr. Ellman said: “Over the years we’ve given back to Jamaica whenever we could” and announced that: “We have just formed the Rick’s Children and Community Foundation.” He said he expected that given the establishment’s impressive patronage “that we are going to be able to generate some significant dollars that we can contribute back into the community.”

KINGSTON, Jamaica; Monday, January 20, 2025:Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, departed the island earlier today (January 20) for Madrid, Spain, to attend the 45th staging of the International Tourism Fair (FITUR), one of the world’s leading travel and tourism tradeshows. This prestigious event, which runs from January 22 to 26, 2025, provides a crucial platform for international tourism stakeholders to showcase their offerings, foster new business relationships, and explore future opportunities.

FITUR is known as the leading tradeshow for inbound and outbound markets in Ibero-America, including premier destinations in the Americas, attracting industry professionals, government representatives, and international media. Minister Bartlett noted that Jamaica’s participation will mark the beginning of the Ministry’s strategy for 2025, a year poised to witness continued growth and innovation in the sector. With the mantra “Thrive in 2025,” the tourism minister underscored the sector’s ambitious targets of expecting to welcome 5 million visitors and generate US$5 billion in earnings, further solidifying Jamaica’s position as a top-tier destination in the global tourism landscape.

“We are proud of Jamaica’s strong performance in 2024, achieving some 4.2 million arrivals and earning US$4.3 billion in tourism revenue, despite numerous challenges,” said Minister Bartlett. “As we move into 2025, our focus will be on maintaining this momentum, with an eye on hitting the 5 million mark for arrivals and reaching US$5 billion in earnings. FITUR is the perfect setting to position Jamaica for a successful year ahead, fostering partnerships that will help us reach our goals,” he expressed.

The minister’s packed itinerary will include several high-level engagements aimed at strengthening Jamaica’s relationships with key international stakeholders. 

On January 22, he will participate in the official FITUR opening ceremony, which will also be attended by Their Majesties King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain. This will be followed by a reception for international ministers of tourism at the North Convention Centre. 

Minister Bartlett will meet with key players in the global tourism industry. This includes meetings with United Nations (UN) Tourism Secretary-General, Zurab Pololikashvili, as well as Spain’s Secretary of State for Tourism, Rosario Sanchez Grau. Mr. Bartlett will also meet with Sebastian Ebel, CEO of the TUI Group; Encarna Pinero, CEO of Grupo Pinero, operators of the Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts; Mark Hoplamazian, President of Hyatt Hotels, and representatives from development firm Invertol. He will also participate in an anniversary event hosted by UN Tourism at the Four Seasons Hotel and attend an award ceremony by Grupo Excelencias.

In addition to meeting engagements, Minister Bartlett will also engage in several media interviews during the tradeshow. Notably, he will speak with leading Spanish media outlets such as InOut Viajes and EFE, as well as international media, including Europa Press, La Sexta – Viajestic, Onda Cero Radio and Travelphoto Magazine, providing the opportunity to highlight Jamaica’s strong tourism performance, tourism offerings and the country’s strategic initiatives for 2025.

Minister Bartlett is scheduled to return to Jamaica on Sunday, January 26, 2025.

KINGSTON, JAMAICA (January 15, 2025) – Tourism thought leaders from around the world will gather in Jamaica February 17 – 19, 2025 for the highly anticipated Third Annual Global Tourism Resilience Conference and Expo in Hanover.  

Taking place at the spectacular new Princess Grand and adjacent Princess Senses, The Mangrove resorts, the conference is poised to set a pivotal stage for the future of the global tourism industry in achieving the following outcomes: 

• Increased Knowledge of Digital Tools for Resilience
• Renewed Focus on Building Resilience
• Collaboration for Resilience Solutions
• Practical Resilience Case Studies
• Adoption of Crisis Management Technologies
• Introduction of Resilience-Focused Financial Tools
• Resilience in Blue Economy Management
• Policy Recommendations for Resilience
• Increased collaboration between tourism stakeholders and digital technology firms globally

“The principles of tourism resilience have guided us in Jamaica and are crucial to our ongoing success,” said the Hon. Edmund Bartlett, founder of the Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre (GTRCMC) and Minister of Tourism, Jamaica. “As the global tourism industry continues to grow and change in the face of new challenges and disruptions, it has never been more important to tap into the expertise of leaders and innovators to collaboratively discuss issues that are central to future-proofing travel and tourism worldwide.”

Rajan Datar, celebrated host of the BBC’s award-winning “The Travel Show” will serve as emcee for the conference programme. Panelists are expected to include representatives from companies such as the World Bank, UNWTO, American Airlines, Carnival, Mastercard, Chemonics, Digicel, Flow, ITIC, and IDB, among others. 

Day 1 of the conference is dedicated to the practical applications of digital transformation, discussing innovations like cybersecurity, immersive realities, AI, robotics, the Metaverse, and IoT, among other technologies, to build tourism resilience. The day will also mark the observation of Global Tourism Resilience Day, a United Nations Day advocated by the Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre. 

Day 2 will delve into the role of digital technologies in building resilience for transforming coastal tourism spaces. 

On Day 3 of the conference, attendees will experience a diverse range of activities showcasing Jamaica’s resilient tourism offerings. The day includes a High-Level Ministerial Roundtable on digital technologies for resilience building and will also feature tours and expeditions exploring resilient spaces across the island, allowing participants to experience firsthand the successes in tourism infrastructure and practices. 

Additionally, the third day features several gastronomic events that highlight the rich culinary heritage of Jamaica, as well as various demonstrations of the latest technologies for tourism resilience. 

The three days will also feature an engaging Expo designed to create a dynamic space where digital technology firms and industry experts can showcase their latest goods and services aimed at building resilience in the tourism sector. This exhibition will provide tourism stakeholders with the opportunity to explore cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions that are essential for fortifying tourism against various disruptions. Participants will engage with advanced tools, software, and systems that enhance crisis management, data-driven decision-making, and sustainable tourism practices.

“In a world where disruptions, both natural and man-made, become more prevalent in the global tourism industry, this conference is fast becoming a must-attend,” said Professor Lloyd Waller, Executive Director of the GTRCMC. “It is imperative that the industry both understand and adapt to emerging trends necessary for building resilience. This conference will provide a global platform for the tourism sector to prepare, plan, and pivot towards what lies ahead.”

It is anticipated that more than 200 delegates from across the globe will be in attendance and Jamaica is prepared to provide a warm welcome.

“Tourism is the world’s largest industry, and the same holds true here in Jamaica,” said Donovan White, Director of Tourism, Jamaica Tourist Board. “That’s why we are both excited and ready to welcome delegates to this important conference and let them experience true Jamaican hospitality.”

Attendees can register for the conference by visiting: https://www.visitjamaica.com/gtr/

MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica, Friday, January 10, 2025: Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, has lauded four Jamaican hotels that have been named among the 10 best all-inclusive Caribbean resorts by USA Today.

In naming the winners, the major American newspaper noted that “the region is home to many of the world's most outstanding all-inclusive resorts” and “with the help of a panel of travel experts, we combed the Caribbean for the islands' best all-inclusive resorts, and then readers voted for their favourites.”

Among the top ten, S Hotel in Montego Bay placed second, while Sunset at the Palms in Negril secured fifth place; Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall came in sixth, and Sandals Dunn’s River was seventh.

Minister Bartlett expressed delight at the recognition given to the Jamaican hotels, stating, “This is another testimony to the high quality of service visitors receive and that their expectations are being met. This is why Jamaica is the only destination in the world that can boast a 42% repeat in arrivals.”

To mark the accomplishment, S Hotel hosted a cocktail reception on Wednesday, January 8, on its fifth-floor pool deck with Minister Bartlett and Mayor of Montego Bay, Councillor Richard Vernon, as special guests. 

Owned by Jamaican Christopher Issa, this is the latest in a string of industry awards earned by the 120-room hotel on Montego Bay’s Hip Strip, adjacent to the world-renowned Doctor’s Cave Beach.

“Tonight, we are celebrating creativity; we’re also celebrating accomplishments,” Minister Bartlett said, adding, “and people wonder why we talk so much about awards, but Jamaica is the most awarded destination in the Caribbean as far as tourism is concerned.”

He pointed out also that Jamaica’s tourism growth in 2024 was 5% better than the previous best year in the country’s history. Coming against a series of external and internal shocks, Minister Bartlett said, “That result is because people like Chris Issa and the team at S are an integral part of the whole tourism landscape.”

The Tourism Minister praised Mr. Issa, stating, "He exemplifies excellence in achieving key performance indicators by being adaptive and responsive, as well as having the ability to pivot." He highlighted "the depth of Mr. Issa's creative genius," noting that his first publication, "How to Speak Jamaican," was co-authored in 1981 with the late social commentator Ken "Pro Rata" Maxwell. 

Minister Bartlett emphasized that "innovation is the hallmark of this man," pointing out that evidence of this can be seen in his continuous efforts to add value to the property.

Mr. Issa said the cocktail celebration “is really to recognize our very hard-working team that has been able to offer a level of service in a very special property.” Stating that they were dedicated and passionate, in attributing the honours to the team, he highlighted that “we are an all-Jamaican managed and staffed hotel and so in that regard, we are super pleased that we can celebrate our team here tonight.”

Also extending commendations to the S Hotel was Mayor Vernon and a number of repeat guests who also declared that the hotel was number one and deserving of the awards.

Westmoreland, Jamaica; Friday, January 10, 2025: After welcoming some 4.27 million total visitors and securing earnings of approximately US$4.35 billion in 2024, Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett is confident that Jamaica is on track to achieving its growth targets of attracting 5 million visitors and generating earnings of US$5 billion for the nation’s economy by 2025.

“The 2024 end-of-year figures represent increases of 5.3% in visitor arrivals and 3.3% in earnings when compared to 2023 and were achieved despite challenges, including travel advisories, severe weather events and airlift restrictions over two quarters,” Minister Bartlett said. 

The 5x5x5 targets were previously set in 2016 and were on the verge of being achieved when the COVID-19 pandemic literally wiped-out global travel, forcing Jamaica and other tourist destinations to start all over from ground zero in rebuilding the industry.

Addressing Sandals Resorts International’s 2025 Global Sales Meeting at its Sandals South Coast resort yesterday (January 9), Minister Bartlett underlined the importance of tourism to Jamaica and the wider Caribbean as he lauded Sandals as a leading contributor to the industry’s growth in the region.

Describing it as a phenomenal home-grown multi-national corporation, Mr. Bartlett suggested to its executive chairman, Adam Stewart that the time had come for Sandals to spread its wings beyond the Caribbean and become a global brand. 

“We need to go beyond the Caribbean now because the world is waiting for what you have given to the Caribbean, making it the most tourism-dependent region on planet Earth,” he suggested. 

More than 50% of the Caribbean region’s gross domestic product (GDP) is predicated on tourism and one-in-four of all the workers are employed in the industry and, except for oil in Guyana, “tourism again stands out as the huge driver of foreign direct investment (FDI) in the region,” he pointed out. Similarly, locally, “when tourism grows, the economy grows; when tourism contracts, unfortunately the economy also contracts,” he noted.

Having achieved “more in 24,” Minister Bartlett hailed the global Sandals sales force as dedicated professionals united by the purpose of strengthening and growing “the incredible Sandals brand that has become synonymous with Caribbean hospitality.” Underscoring that “Sandals is an integral part of our national identity,” he challenged them “to thrive for 25”.

Ascribing several attributes to Sandals, including its contribution to the Jamaica workforce and supporting farmers and other industries, Minister Bartlett affirmed that “this is what responsible tourism looks like, where success is measured not just in occupancy rates alone but by investing, and people are at the heart of the tourism industry.”

In that regard, he assured that notwithstanding the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning and the wonderful things technology can do to change the way things are, “they are going to change it for people, and it is human intelligence that will give efficacy to the changes.” Mr. Bartlett argued that “the type of industry that will survive, whatever transition the world embraces, going forward, is going to be about people and tourism as the industry that is most related to people, will survive.”

KINGSTON; Jamaica; December 27, 2024: The Ministry of Tourism and its public bodies spread holiday joy and gratitude this season by hosting a series of special Christmas Treats for the children of tourism workers. The heartwarming celebrations, held over three days, took place across resort areas including Kingston, Portland, Treasure Beach, Negril, Ocho Rios and Montego Bay, bringing smiles to over 600 children and their families.

"Our tourism workers are the backbone of our sector, and these celebrations recognize their dedication while bringing joy to their children during the holiday season. It is timely as the sector continues to grow and our workers are the driving force behind this," said Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett.

The Christmas treats aimed to recognize the invaluable contributions of tourism workers who play a vital role in the country’s vibrant tourism sector. The Ministry of Tourism partnered with local businesses, community organizations, and volunteers to create memorable experiences filled with holiday magic.

Children were treated to an exciting array of activities, including bounce-a-bouts, mechanical bulls, games and a visit from Santa Claus, who arrived bearing gifts for every child. The event also featured live entertainment, including dance performances.

In his visit to the treat at Harmony Beach Park in Montego Bay, Minister Bartlett emphasized the importance of the event: “The dedication of our tourism workers ensures that visitors to our country experience the best of our hospitality. We celebrate not only their hard work but also the joy and wonder of the season through their children. This is our way of giving back to those who give so much to our nation.”

Toys were also distributed to ten (10) hotels across Trelawny, Montego Bay and Negril ensuring that the children of staff who were unable to attend the Christmas treats still received a share of the holiday joy.

The treats were made possible through the generous support of the Ministry’s public bodies and tourism partners who provided toys, refreshments and other resources. Their support ensured that the children and their families could enjoy a day filled with festive cheer.

The Ministry of Tourism plans to make this an annual tradition, reinforcing its commitment to supporting the well-being of tourism workers and their families. As the year ends, the Ministry extends warm holiday wishes to all and looks forward to a prosperous new year for the tourism sector and the nation.

GREEN ISLAND, Jamaica; Monday, December 16, 2024:The US$400 million Princess Resorts with 1,005-rooms and several overwater suites, will add another dimension to Jamaica’s tourism industry next year with the development of the country’s first casino since licensing legislation was approved in June 2010, following the enactment of the Casino Gaming Act in March that year.

Making the announcement at the official opening of Princess Grand Jamaica and Princess Senses The Mangrove on December 12, 2024, Managing Director, Enrico Pezzoli said “these two resorts promise to elevate Jamaica’s all-inclusive experience and draw more tourists to our shores than ever before.”

He went on to announce that “Princess is proud to be the first in Jamaica to offer a full-service style casino where guests can enjoy a state-of-the-art gaming lounge and at the same time world class food and beverage. Construction has already started and we are planning to open our casino by the fourth quarter of 2025.”

Mr. Pezzoli also disclosed that in its first week of operation, the rating platform Tripadvisor has positioned Princess Grand Jamaica at number two in Jamaica. The current staff complement of 1,400 will be increased to 1,700 when the resort “is in full capacity in a few weeks.”

Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Honourable Andrew Holness and Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett led in cutting the ribbon signifying the official opening.

In his remarks, Prime Minister Holness described the resort as “one of the most beautiful hotels that I have seen,” and the fact that every room has a view of the sea “is a major selling point” with the architects having done an amazing job.

“I also want to commend the workmen who have put their labour into this; many of them are from this parish, and all over Jamaica, and I want to acknowledge their work in this achievement,” he said

Minister Bartlett welcomed the announcement of the first casino and lauded the owner of Princess Hotels and Resorts, Roberto Cabrera Plana and his family “on the great investment that they have made here in Jamaica.”

Attributing this and other developments slated in tourism to the fact that Jamaica had achieved stability, the Prime Minister underscored that Jamaica needed to pivot with “speed and efficiency in… improving infrastructure to support this amazing investment, and most importantly, to ensure that the people of Jamaica benefit from the stability.”

Prime Minister Holness also reaffirmed his commitment to getting the Hopewell Bypass and Lucea Bypass done, making the investment in fixing the town of Lucea with its potential as a tourist attraction. “We have already started the plans; we already have the alignment for the bypass and in the next budget we will be making allocations to begin,” he assured.

“We are going to create the best tourism corridor in the Caribbean when we have completed that bypass from Montego Bay straight through to Negril, he promised, while also stating: “We have some excellent plans for Negril, including a new airport, including two parks; one will be a beach park and one will be an echo park.” The Prime Minister also announced an intention to declare Negril a special investment area “to recreate the whole energy in Negril, to get back Negril as the pulse of tourism.”