Kingston, Jamaica; Tuesday, July 2, 2024: As Jamaica braces for the potential impact of Hurricane Beryl, Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett has convened several urgent strategy meetings since Sunday, June 30, 2024, with the Policy and Planning Group and other key members of the Ministry’s Tourism Emergency Operations Centre (TEOC). The meetings, which included Ministry of Tourism officials, Chairmen and Executive Directors of public bodies of the Ministry, the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA), and other leading private sector tourism stakeholders, were aimed at ensuring the tourism sector is fully prepared to face the possible challenges posed by the hurricane.

Minister Bartlett emphasized the critical nature of the initiative. "The entire TEOC team and all our tourism stakeholders remain committed to safeguarding our tourism sector and ensuring that all necessary measures are in place to mitigate the impact of Hurricane Beryl. This collaboration among key stakeholders is essential to our preparedness efforts," Minister Bartlett said.

He outlined that “preparations have been made for the full activation of the TEOC Centre at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel at midday today (July 2).” He added that the TEOC team is therefore currently focusing on several preparedness activities, including:

• Ensuring hotels, Airbnbs, and tourism attractions follow comprehensive hurricane preparedness plans.
• Coordinating with local authorities to secure the safety and well-being of staff and tourists.
• Establishing communication protocols to provide timely updates and guidance to all tourism sector entities.
• Stocking emergency supplies and securing facilities to minimize potential damage.
• Implementing evacuation plans where necessary and ensuring that emergency contact information is readily available.

Minister Bartlett underscored that “the TEOC team will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as needed. The team will also maintain contact with our tourism partners, including Airlines and Cruise lines. I urge all tourism stakeholders to remain vigilant and to follow all safety guidelines to ensure the protection of life and property.”

Kingston, Jamaica; Tuesday, July 2, 2024: The Ministry of Tourism has activated the Tourism Emergency Operations Centre (TEOC) in preparation for the passage of Hurricane Beryl. The TEOC serves as the central hub for coordinating emergency response and recovery efforts within the tourism sector. The TEOC is located at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel and was officially activated at midday today (July 2).

“We are closely monitoring the development of Hurricane Beryl. I have met key industry partners to ensure that all necessary precautions are being taken,” said Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett. Minister Bartlett continued: “The safety of our residents and visitors remains our top priority. We urge everyone to remain vigilant and follow the instructions of ODPEM’s National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) to ensure the protection of life and property.”

The TEOC will serve as the central communication point for the tourism sector, providing official information and updates on the hurricane’s progress and any potential challenges posed by the weather system in relation to tourism facilities. The TEOC will also work closely with the NEOC to coordinate requests for assistance and ensure a swift recovery from any storm-related impact.

The Minister outlined that “the primary purpose of the TEOC is to perform four key functions, information collection, analysis and dissemination; coordination; communication; and resource requesting and tracking.” He stressed that “the TEOC is the official source of information for the tourism sector as we seek to assist our tourism partners and safeguard the industry.” 

“Jamaica has a proven track record of resilience in the face of challenges. We are confident that by working together, we can minimize any disruption caused by Hurricane Beryl and ensure the continued success and growth of the tourism industry,” noted Minister Bartlett.

CHICAGO; Illinois; Wednesday, June 26, 2024: Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett has welcomed news that United Airlines increased its total flights to Jamaica by over 50% since 2019. The disclosure was made during a meeting with the Airline’s top brass and the Minister and his Senior Executives at United’s World Headquarters last week. United Airlines is a major American airline headquartered at the Willis Tower in Chicago, Illinois. It operates an extensive domestic and international route network across the United States, connecting six continents from its seven US mainland hubs.

“Jamaica continues to be in high demand and this increase by one of the largest US airlines proves that the partnership between the destination and airline has been fruitful and is strong. We pride ourselves on being one of the most connected destinations through our network of airline partners who form a core part of driving our tourism growth,” said Minister Bartlett.

The Airline’s Senior representatives indicated that they will fly their largest schedule to Jamaica this year- a 15% increase vs. 2023. They also highlighted that Jamaica’s Sangster International airport (MBJ) remains a key location for the airline as its 3rd largest Caribbean destination. United is serving MBJ from 5 of its hubs at up to 34 total weekly flights in 2024.

“Without airlift, we cannot grow our tourism product and so we rely on these types of partnerships to create mutually beneficial outcomes. Jamaica is in a good position regarding its phenomenal post COVID growth and with this consistent demand for the island, we are optimistic about our tourism outlook,” Minister Bartlett said.

“To have one of the largest airlines out of the US, our main source market, increase its service says a lot about our partnership and how attractive Jamaica is as a destination. There is no doubt that our unique and authentic tourism offerings continue to make visitors want to come to our shores,” said Donovan White, Director of Tourism.

Summer is gearing up to be very robust as some of the Airlines’ hubs, New York/Newark, Houston, Washington D.C./Dulles, Chicago, and Denver, experience strong load factors for travel to Jamaica.

KINGSTON; Jamaica; Monday, June 24, 2024: Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett believes the push to reimagine Caribbean Tourism is key to ensuring the resilience of the industry. Speaking at the Council of Ministers during the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s (CTO) Caribbean Week in New York on Tuesday June 18, Minister Bartlett expressed his support for implementing changes that will benefit the region. 

“Tourism remains the lifeblood of the Caribbean and as such we must do everything in our power to ensure that the industry is resilient. As we continue to grow, post COVID-19, it is important that we take a deep look at how we are operating and how we need to operate in the future to respond to the changing demands and potential disruptions,” said Minister Bartlett.

Held during Caribbean-American Heritage Month, Caribbean Week covered the Caribbean Tourism Organizations’ (CTO) business proceedings which included meetings of the Board of Directors and the Council of Ministers and Commissioners of Tourism.

“The call by the Secretariat of the CTO to actively look at reimagining the organization is welcomed as the region looks at finding strategic ways to increase our partnerships, creativity and opportunities to benefit us all. The pandemic showed us that we must do away with competition and move towards co-petition to grow exponentially to benefit livelihoods within our communities,” Minister Bartlett said.

The primary objective of the Caribbean Tourism Organization is to provide to and through its members, the services and information necessary for the development of sustainable tourism for the economic and social benefit of the Caribbean people.

From this year’s deliberations, plans are being developed, through a consultant to look at ways of reimagining the organization. It was agreed that a working committee be set up to ensure the input of Caribbean destinations in the development of the strategy.

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.