NEW YORK; New York; Thursday June 20, 2024:  Artificial Intelligence (AI), the latest global phenomenon, was a major focus at the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s (CTO) Caribbean Week in New York, where a Ministerial forum looked at leveraging AI for tourism development. During the discussions, Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett highlighted that this technology will be the new frontier for Caribbean tourism and must be harnessed properly to enable more seamlessness within the industry.

Speaking at the Ministerial forum titled ‘Leveraging Artificial Intelligence’ at the Intercontinental Hotel in New York on Tuesday, the Minister said: “The human race has always created better ways of doing things and AI forms part of this era of doing things better through technological applications. We are at an exciting time in tourism’s history where if leveraged correctly, we will be able to improve our processes and ultimately make more targeted and strategic decisions.”

“Our tourism workers are at the core of our industry, and they must be at the forefront of driving change in what will become the new tourism landscape that will include artificial intelligence. They must be trained to understand the needs of the landscape to be able to adapt and respond,” added Minister Bartlett. 

The Ministerial panel, which formed part of the programme for CTO Caribbean Week, included Hon Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation for the Bahamas, Hon Kenneth Bryan, CTO Chairman and Minister of Tourism and Ports for the Cayman Islands and Lee Hall, Founder of Clarity Media.

“AI is making you know before you go, which means our potential customers can experience destinations before they book. We therefore need to be ready, through training, to promote the integrity and uniqueness of our products and services in advance so when our visitors come, they get what we promised,” said Minister Bartlett.

The panel agreed that it was critical that the Caribbean look at ways to harness the power of AI to the benefit of the industry in the region. With tourism being an increasingly dynamic industry, AI can be utilized to enhance the region’s offerings to attract more visitors.

“Already Jamaica has embraced new technologies to increase the efficiency of our tourism product with our website AI chat bots that respond to queries in real time, enabling destination content for the metaverse and looking at using media mix modelling,” added the Minister.

Minister Bartlett, along with his senior tourism executives are in the US on a multi-city marketing blitz that covers New York, Chicago and Dallas. The engagement includes participation at CTO Caribbean Week, meetings with airline partners and key media interviews.

Kingston, Jamaica; Wednesday, June 19, 2024: Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett has offered his sincere condolences to the family and friends of Kingsley Cooper, a visionary pioneer in the fashion, entertainment and lifestyle industries, who passed away yesterday. Cooper was renowned for his ground-breaking contribution to the fashion industry locally, regionally and internationally. Along with fellow attorney Hilary Phillips, he founded Pulse Investments Ltd., and the acclaimed Pulse Model Agency, a trailblazer for Jamaica’s prominence in the international fashion and lifestyle arena.

Minister Bartlett expressed sorrow at Cooper’s passing, saying: “The entire tourism family mourns deeply the passing of one of Jamaica’s outstanding sons, Kingsley Cooper.”

“His pioneering entrepreneurship in the creative arts and industries, with particular reference to fashion and modelling, set the stage for so many outstanding Jamaican models to grace the pages of some of the most discerning and discriminating publications across the world,” Minister Bartlett added.

Cooper’s impact extended into the tourism sector with the establishment of Pulse Boutique Hotels, the hospitality division of Pulse Investments Ltd. Under this umbrella, Pulse Rooms and the Suites at Villa Ronai became notable names in Jamaica’s boutique hotel industry, offering unique and luxurious experiences to visitors.

Minister Bartlett highlighted the significant contributions Cooper made to tourism, stating: “We in tourism benefitted so much from his business acumen as well as his commitment to Brand Jamaica. He was always forward thinking with his ideas and practices that have enabled us to make a difference in terms of our marketing of destination Jamaica.”

In recognition of his monumental impact, Cooper was awarded the Order of Distinction in the rank of Commander in 2007. 

“We want to commend his very powerful and invaluable contribution to Jamaica and our economy,” Minister Bartlett noted. He continued, “I want to convey to his dear wife, children, and family my deepest condolences. Our greatest hope is that they will be inspired by his life and work and be bold enough to continue that legacy to the benefit of Jamaica and the world. May his soul rest in peace and light perpetual shine upon him.”

Kingston, Jamaica; Monday, June 17, 2024: Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett arrived in New York City yesterday (June 16) to participate in a series of events and activities for the Caribbean Tourism Organization's (CTO) Caribbean Week celebrations from June 16 to June 21. While in the USA, Minister Bartlett and senior tourism officials will embark on a strong multi-city marketing blitz that will also take them to Chicago and Dallas.

This year’s Caribbean Week carries the CTO 35th anniversary theme “Connecting the Globe, Celebrating Diversity” and features events designed to foster collaboration and growth within the Caribbean tourism industry. Minister Bartlett emphasized the importance of Caribbean Week: “This annual gathering provides a valuable platform for Caribbean nations to connect with industry leaders, media, and travel partners. By working together, we can leverage our unique strengths and ensure the continued success of tourism across the region.”

Minister Bartlett’s schedule is packed with events throughout the week, offering him opportunities to showcase Destination Jamaica’s offerings and engage in critical discussions about the future of Caribbean tourism.

Today (June 17) Minister Bartlett will appear on a segment of WPIX New York Living, followed by virtual interviews with Good Day Baltimore (Fox) and We Are Austin (CBS). He will also attend the Caribbean Media Awards Luncheon and participate in the CTO Media Marketplace, where he will be interviewed by representatives from TravelPulse and Travel Agent Central. The day concludes with a meeting with JetBlue in Long Island City.

The following days will see Minister Bartlett participating in high-level discussions and industry events. A panel discussion on “Leveraging Artificial Intelligence” at the Minister’s Forum will explore AI’s impact on the travel sector. The Council of Ministers Meeting will convene regional tourism leaders to discuss critical issues and opportunities. Minister Bartlett will also hold meetings with airline representatives from JetBlue while in New York.

Minister Bartlett commented on the importance of collaboration and innovation within the industry, adding, “CTO’s Caribbean Week allows us to share best practices and explore new strategies for attracting visitors. By embracing innovation and working together, we can ensure that the Caribbean remains top-of-mind for travellers worldwide.”

Following Caribbean Week activities, Minister Bartlett will travel to Dallas and Chicago to meet with tourism partners, including airline representatives from United Airlines and Southwest Airlines. Throughout the week, he will participate in additional media interviews, including a virtual session with regional broadcast segments coordinated by the Lou Hammond Group

Minister Bartlett is scheduled to return to Jamaica on Saturday, June 22.

NEW YORK; New York; Monday June 17, 2024: Popular low-cost carrier out of the United States (US), JetBlue Airlines, has confirmed that the demand for Jamaica remains high. In a meeting today, lead by Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett and his Senior Tourism executives, the Airlines’ Executives confirmed that Jamaica was in high demand in some of their key states in the US.

“As part of our efforts to reengage our major airline partners and strengthen our relationships, we met with Senior Executives from JetBlue to look at strategic ways of improving our arrivals figures out of the US. It is good to know that Jamaica remains high on the list of destinations that JetBlue customers want to visit,” said Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett.

Headquartered in the Long Island City neighborhood of Queens, New York City , JetBlue operates over 1,000 flights daily and serves 100 domestic and international network destinations in the Americas and Europe.

“Jamaica remains one of the most connected destinations in the Caribbean and this has been a strategic and deliberate effort to ensure growth in our arrivals and earnings. Airlift is therefore critical to supporting our growth strategy and we are working to secure more seats for the destination,” added the Minister.

The meeting, held today at the JetBlue office in New York, forms part of the Minister’s mega multi city marketing blitz in the US which will take him across New York, Chicago in Illinois and Dallas, Texas.

“JetBlue has been a trusted partner, and we look forward to this continued partnership that will enable us to increase arrivals,” said Director of Tourism, Donovan White.

Some of the key markets in JetBlue’s routes cited for high demand for Jamaica include Boston, Fort Lauderdale and New York with load factors as high as 93%.

The Minister and his Senior Tourism executives are set to meet with United and Delta Airlines later this week.

Kingston, Jamaica, June 10, 2024 – With travelers flocking to Jamaica for summer getaways, the beloved island is sharing its action-packed event schedule for the season. The thrilling line-up will bring together the best of the island’s music, culture, and food for locals and visitors to enjoy, including the annual Reggae Sumfest now in its 31st year. 

“With a multitude of authentic and lively events across the whole island, we are expecting another exciting summer showcasing the best of Jamaican culture,” said Hon. Edmund Barlett, Minister of Tourism, Jamaica. “As the pioneer in various aspects of Caribbean tourism, we’re well equipped to welcome both new and returning guests to our beautiful island this summer as well as through end of year. with projections up to 4.5 million visitors generating $5 billion in revenue by 2025.” 

“In addition to our beautiful beaches, clear blue water and friendly community, our steady line-up of events this summer will allow everyone visiting Jamaica the opportunity to find an experience best suited to their needs,” said Donovan White, Director of Tourism, Jamaica. “Our lively festivals, authentic cultural experiences, unspoiled nature, and tranquil resorts will continue attracting visitors looking to unwind or for the adventure of a lifetime.” 

Kicking off the summer season is the largest reggae festival in the Caribbean, Montego Bay’s Reggae Sumfest (July 14-20th). The island’s most anticipated event, which attracts visitors from around the world, will pay tribute to the musical genres that originated in Jamaica with performances from top Reggae talent including YG Marley, Capleton, and international superstar Babyface, plus themed parties like Street Dance, a showcase of top DJs and dancehall culture, and Sumfest All White, an immersive celebration featuring throwback musical hits. 

Additional summer event highlights include:

• July 18, Jamaica Rum Festival: A showcase in Jamaica’s world-renowned rum, whose tantalizing flavor comes from sugarcane grown in the island’s special mineral-rich soil. Rum will be savored alongside the best of Jamaican cuisine, art, and live music.
• August 2-5, Portland Paradise Weekend: A four-day extravaganza that takes guests on an immersive journey throughout one of Jamaica’s natural havens. Visitors can expect over-the-top parties, including a dancehall-fueled Electric Vybz night, plus relaxing guided nature excursions like a hike to Nanny Falls and total immersion into Portland’s lively dining and mixology scene. 
• August 2-6, Dream Wknd: Jamaica’s largest party experience. This week-long festival features live music from top artists and DJs in genres including dancehall, soca, hip hop and pop.  
• August 2-6, Best Weekend Ever! : Six unique events, including a fun-filled brunch, soca dance fest, and beach celebration, are curated for the ultimate destination party experience. Guests can savor the best vibes on the white sand shores in Ocho Rios.

KINGSTON, Jamaica; Monday, June 10, 2024: The Ministry of Tourism and its public bodies will be ramping up efforts to boost the capacity of local suppliers in a bid to further strengthen linkages between tourism and other key sectors of the Jamaican economy. This commitment was underscored by Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, during his recent 2024/2025 Sectoral Debate opening presentation in Parliament.

“Prime Minister Holness has charged this Government with investing more in the supply side of the industry,” Minister Bartlett stated. “We are meeting this challenge through our Tourism Linkages Network (TLN), a critical department within the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF),” he stated. 

A key initiative highlighted by Minister Bartlett was the Agri-Linkages Exchange platform, also known as ALEX. He explained that “ALEX has facilitated greater connectivity between our tourism sector and small-scale farmers, generating approximately $1 billion in sales.” He continued: “These farmers, ranging from small landowners to backyard growers, are now supplying fresh produce directly to hotels and restaurants.”

ALEX is a joint effort between the TEF and the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA). Minister Bartlett also announced plans to expand this successful model, by providing water tanks and other resources to empower and boost the capacity of farmers across Jamaica.

Additionally, his presentation highlighted the recent opening of Jamaica’s first Artisan Village in Falmouth. “The development of the Artisan Village is a collaborative venture between the Port Authority of Jamaica (PAJ) and the Tourism Enhancement Fund. This project offers a platform to showcase Jamaica’s rich cultural heritage and artisanal talent on an international stage,” the tourism minister shared. 

The Artisan Village features the work of a diverse range of artisans, offering visitors a unique and immersive glimpse into Jamaican culture and traditions. Minister Bartlett noted that the initiative aligns with the Ministry’s commitment to promoting local craftsmanship and providing tourists with an authentic Jamaican experience.

Recognizing the vital role of small and medium-sized tourism enterprises (SMTEs), Minister Bartlett also highlighted the importance of other initiatives like the annual Christmas in July trade show. “This event provides a platform for SMTEs to showcase their products to key stakeholders within the tourism industry,” he explained.

The most recent Christmas in July event, held in July 2023, featured some 180 exhibitors and the trade show has generated nearly $136 million in sales between 2015 and 2022. “This event, organised by the TLN in collaboration with key partners such as the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC), Jamaica Hotel & Tourist Association (JHTA), Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO), and Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA), exemplifies our unwavering commitment to nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship within the tourism sector,” Minister Bartlett concluded. 

As preparations intensify for the 10th annual staging of Christmas in July this year, TEF recently hosted its Supplier Assessment Session at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel. The 2024/2025 Sectoral Debate will continue in Gordon House on Tuesday, June 11, 2024. Minister Bartlett will return to the House of Representatives on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, to deliver his Sectoral Debate closing presentation.

Kingston, Jamaica; Friday, June 7, 2024: On the margins of the Resilience and Innovation Summit now underway in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, met with senior representatives of leading global sustainable development firm, Chemonics International, in a bid to forge a major partnership for the upcoming Global Tourism Resilience Day in 2025. 

The meeting, which included Chemonics President and CEO, Jamey Butcher and members of his senior management team, was aimed at securing Chemonics’ collaboration in executing activities related to the 3rd annual observation of Global Tourism Resilience Day, scheduled for February 17, 2025, and exploring the possibility of expanding Jamaica’s Tourism Innovation Incubator, Minister Bartlett outlined. This he said could see an alliance between Chemonics and the Jamaica based Global Tourism Resilience Centre (GTRC). 

“We had discussions regarding this partnership, but we also looked at how Chemonics can work with Jamaica in expanding our Tourism Innovation Incubator established in the Ministry, for which the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF) now has responsibility,” said Minister Bartlett.

The tourism minister noted that Chemonics’ experience as a leading global development firm with a vast network of experts aligns with Jamaica’s vision for the Tourism Innovation Incubator. He explained that the relationship would foster innovation within the tourism sector by connecting local tourism enterprises with international technologists and specialists in digitization and artificial intelligence (AI).

“The discussions also centered around expanding the activities of the small and medium-sized tourism enterprises (SMTEs) and to continue building capacity for training and certification, financing and funding of start-up and expansion projects as well as marketing,” added Minister Bartlett.

Minister Bartlett also commended Chemonics’ critical partnership “in Jamaica’s successful hosting of the largest-ever UNWTO conference in Montego Bay in 2017 to commemorate the International Year of Sustainable Tourism,” a feat achieved through further partnership with the World Bank and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).

He continued: “I’m excited about the prospects of this collaboration as it will bring together a similar type of team including UN Tourism that will be working on this mega Global Tourism Resilience Day event expected to happen in Jamaica in February 2025.”

Kingston, Jamaica, June 6, 2024 – Jamaica has welcomed a record two million visitors thus far in 2024, more than ever reported during the period of January to May. Further solidifying its position as one of the world’s leading island travel destinations, Jamaica’s final tourism data for 2023 also notes a record-breaking 4.1 million visitors and 25.5% year-over-year increase in total visitation compared to 2022.

“Our recent tourism data is a testament to our ongoing resilience and support from our cherished partners,” said Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism, Jamaica. “This historic start to 2024, as well as last year’s notable rise in arrivals, is a result of our island’s vibrant spirit as well as various factors like additional airline seats, new hotel rooms, and growing interest from travelers around the world. To date, we have generated $1.9 billion in revenue this year and looking ahead, we are on track to bring almost $5 billion to our economy by 2025 – contributing directly to the prosperity of our island and people.”

2023 Saw Huge Tourist Returns

Following a significant bounce back in arrivals post-pandemic, travelers continued having their hearts set on the “One Love” island in 2023, especially those from the U.S, where arrivals were up 16.2% compared to 2022. All four major U.S. regions reported a large uptick in travelers headed to Jamaica, with the Midwest noting a 23.3% increase, the West 16.8%, the South 15%, and the Northeast 14.5%. A majority of U.S. travelers hailed from New York, with more than 350,000 New Yorkers paying the island a visit. The Empire State’s Irie spirit was nearly matched by Floridians, 326,633 of whom visited in 2023.

Poised to have the one of the most ambitious tourism growth plans in the Caribbean, Jamaica will continue to see an influx of tourism with more than 2,000 new hotel rooms expected to add to the island’s capacity, with new offerings from Princess, Hard Rock Hotels, Secrets and Viva Wyndham over the next two years.

“Through the consistent promotion of destination awareness and further expansion of attractions and experiences, Jamaica has maintained its positioning as the crown jewel of the Caribbean in this post-pandemic era,” said Donovan White, Director of Tourism, Jamaica. “Our friendly island has an outsized influence and will continue to welcome travelers worldwide.”

Kingston, Jamaica; Tuesday, June 4, 2024: Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, departed the island today (June 4) for Europe where he will engage in several high-level activities aimed at bolstering Jamaica’s position in the global tourism arena. Minister Bartlett will be participating in two significant events: The Resilience and Innovation Summit being hosted by the Global Travel and Tourism Resilience Council in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the 121st UN Tourism Executive Council Meeting in Barcelona, Spain.

Ahead of his departure, the tourism minister noted that his participation in the Resilience and Innovation Summit underscores Jamaica’s commitment to building a more robust and adaptable tourism industry. “The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the vulnerabilities of our industry globally,” said Minister Bartlett. “However, it also presented an opportunity to rebuild in a more resilient way. Innovation is key to this process, allowing us to develop new strategies, and cutting-edge technologies, and adapt to evolving market demands,” he added. 

Minister Bartlett will deliver the keynote address on how innovation cements resilience. “By fostering a culture of creativity and embracing new ideas, we can ensure that the tourism industry is prepared to navigate future shocks and thrive in the years to come,” he emphasized. 

In addition to his keynote address, Minister Bartlett will also be hosting bilateral meetings with representatives of Destination Management Organizations (DMOs) and other countries. With this in mind, he said: “These meetings provide a valuable platform to showcase the unique offerings of Brand Jamaica and strengthen tourism partnerships.”

Following the summit, Minister Bartlett will travel to Barcelona to participate in the 121st session of the UN Tourism Executive Council. This meeting brings together tourism leaders from around the world to discuss critical issues and develop collaborative strategies for advancing sustainable and responsible tourism practices.

The Executive Council is a highly revered body and is responsible for the management and implementation of strategic decisions carried out by UN Tourism.

“Jamaica’s election last year as Second Vice Chair of the UN Tourism Executive Council was a significant achievement,” Minister Bartlett noted. He continued: “This position allows us to share our experiences and best practices with the global tourism community, while also advocating for the interests of small island developing states like Jamaica.”

“By actively engaging in these high-level discussions, we are striving to ensure that Jamaica remains a thought leader and a top-of-mind destination for international travellers,” he concluded.

Minister Bartlett is scheduled to return to Jamaica on Wednesday, June 12, 2024.

KINGSTON, Jamaica; Wednesday, May 29, 2024: Jamaica was chosen by the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) as the location for the inauguration of a new initiative aimed at promoting sustainable tourism, as a new feature of its flagship Caribbean Travel Marketplace tradeshow. The 42nd staging of the trade event was hosted in Jamaica from May 20-23, 2024.

Branded CHTA Responsible Tourism Day (RTD), it has been introduced as part of a broader movement towards responsible tourism and is designed to encourage sustainable tourism development, highlighted by giving back to, and making a positive impact on local communities. 

The activities chosen covered ‘agricultural linkages with tourism,’ ‘climate change and tourism,’ and ‘community and tourism,’ and were staged on Labour Day, May 23. It included planting of fruit trees at Croydon In The Mountains historic estate, while highlighting how agriculture and tourism interface with attention to food security. It also entailed a beach clean-up and educational tour at the Montego Bay Marine Park, which conserves and restores the coastal resources of Montego Bay, as well as the painting and beautifying of the SOS Children’s Village in Barrett Town, in addition to creating a village farm with vegetables and fruits.

Among participants at the SOS Children’s Village were Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett and CHTA President, Nicola Madden-Greig.

In commending the initiative, Mr. Bartlett said: “Tourism has a new definition post-COVID-19; we’re not just an economic activity anymore, but we are a driver of social and economic development within the area and a greater focus is now being placed on the social side of our responsibility.” In that regard, he said there was more involvement in communities, with tourism entities becoming more conscious about the environment, with added focus on environmental management, economic development and the well-being of the workers and the people involved in tourism communities.

Governance has also become an area of focus “and the use of data as a huge driver of decision-making and to create abilities for us to understand better the thinking of people. For instance, what the psychographic profiles of the market now are and how we can develop new products in line with these new profiles that are developing,” added Minister Bartlett. “To enable our people to manipulate, what I call, the cognitive systems is really about what the future of tourism is going to be,” he posited.

Mrs. Madden Greig outlined that one of the objectives of the venture was to give back to tourism and Responsible Tourism Day would be an ongoing feature of Marketplace activities. 

“That is the plan. It started under my administration, but I am sure that it will continue. We really feel that this is a strong thing that we need to do as citizens of the Caribbean, but most importantly, giving back to our communities because it is our communities that support us and absolutely make the tourism product what it is,” said Mrs. Madden Greig. “People are an integral part of everything that we do and so we have to remember that we have to have inclusiveness and we want to strengthen our linkages,” she added.