For the third consecutive year, the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), will bring championship volleyball to the Caribbean, showcasing the skills of Olympic and pro players and coaches during GObeachfest 2009. Organized by Volleyball Vacations, GObeachfest will take place at Club Med Turkoise located in Providenciales, Turks & Caicos, from November 7-21. The star-studded matches will feature Olympic champions including 2008 Olympic Gold Medalist Phil Dalhausser and 2008 Olympian Sean Rosenthal.
“Beach volleyball is a popular sport in the Caribbean and we are ecstatic to host such high calibre volleyball players in our Region,” said Sylma Brown, Director of Marketing (Ag.) of the Caribbean Tourism Organization. “The sports tourism industry has been a driving factor in boosting arrivals to the Caribbean, so we’d like to continue to host key events such as this to support the interests of these travelers.”
GObeachfest is designed as a full athletic retreat and destination vacation targeting sports enthusiasts who want to train and network with pro athletes. The event will offer all of the amenities of a beach resort vacation with the addition of world-class athletic training and socializing with people of similar interests. Pro athletes from many disciplines and backgrounds will offer daily training sessions to attendees in addition to participating in the volleyball tournaments.
“The goal is to provide our participants with the opportunity to meet new friends from all over the world in a beautiful setting,” said Albert Hannemann, founder and CEO of Volleyball Vacations and GObeachfest. “This itinerary is not just for volleyball enthusiasts, but also for anyone who wants to learn sports from the best coaches in the world and enjoy theme parties, world class DJ's and listen to live bands during the action-packed nightly entertainment.”
The 2009 GObeachfest will feature the following pro athletes and trainers:
Albert Hannemann - Director of the 2009 AVP VIP Fan Experience, Director of the AVP Juniors Camps and Clinics, Olympic Festival Gold Medalist and founder and CEO of Volleyball Vacations and GObeachfest
Kim Lyons – Celebrity Trainer, Fitness Pro, Celebrity Trainer on NBC’s “The Biggest Loser,” Author Your Body, Your Life
Matt Olson – Association of Volleyball Professionals (AVP) Pro, winner of the 2008 Belmar, NJ AVP Open, 2x National Club Champion at UofA, Ranked 4th on the AVP tour
Sean Rosenthal, 2008 Olympian - AVP Tour Champion, AVP Best Defensive Player, FIVB Top Rookie, AVP Best Server
Gunter Schlierkamp – Mr. Universe, Bodybuilding Pro, Professional bodybuilder, Actor and Fitness Celebrity
Francisco Escudero - Sky Banditz Kite-boarding Pro, Founder SkyBAnditz Kite-boarding Center, Florida Kitesurfing Association North Miami Beach
Eric ‘T-Bones’ Masson – Beach Volleyball Pro, Level 3 Certified Coach in Canada, Level 2-3 Master Leaning Facilitation, Olympic team Canada Coach on the FIVB World Tour
Sin Jin Smith – AVP Legend, Beach Volleyball Pro, original “King of the Beach”, 11 international & World Championships, 1st Player to reach 100 career open victories, 1st US team to qualify for the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, UCLA Sports Hall of Fame
Tarin Keith - Association of Volleyball Professionals (AVP) Pro, Owner of Visionary Essence
TY Loomis - Association of Volleyball Professionals (AVP) Pro, 2009 AVP Crocs Tour Champion, Australian Pro Tour Champion
Friday, November 13, 2009
Allen Chastenet wins Caribbean Travel Personality of the Year
Saint Lucia's Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation, Senator Allen Chastanet, has been named the Caribbean Travel Personality of the Year.
Senator Chastanet won the honor at the prestigious 2009 World Travel Awards in London, England over the weekend.
The World Travel Awards acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the global travel and tourism industry.
"It's with great humility that I accept this award on behalf of the Government and people of Saint Lucia," said the Senator, who saluted his fellow Saint Lucian nationals for their commitment to excellence across the hospitality industry.
At the Awards, Saint Lucia once again copped the Caribbean's and World's Leading Honeymoon Destination designations, while the Caribbean's Leading Spa Resort went to The Body Holiday LeSport. The Caribbean's Leading Hotel Brand and the World's Leading All-Inclusive Company went to Sandals Resorts.
"As a Saint Lucian, I am deeply honored to witness such a small destination create a big bang on the world stage," said Saint Lucia's Director of Tourism Louis Lewis, who acknowledged that the weekend awards were additional stimulus for the Saint Lucia Tourist Board to continue striving to improve in today's competitive travel and tourism environment.
Senator Chastanet, who is credited with starting the world acclaimed Saint Lucia Jazz festival, was Vice President of Sales and Marketing with Windjammer Landing in Saint Lucia before being appointed the island's Director of Tourism in the early 1990s.
He became Director of Sales and Marketing at Island Outpost in the mid-90s before serving as Director, then Vice President of Worldwide Sales and Marketing at Air Jamaica for eight years.
In 2001, Travel Agent magazine named Senator Chastanet "Caribbean Destination Person of the Year," and in 2003 he returned to his native Saint Lucia to open Coco Resorts in Rodney Bay Village.
He was appointed to the Saint Lucia cabinet in 2006 and assumed the chairmanship of the Caribbean Tourism Organization.
Senator Allen Chastanet holds a B.A. in Economics and Political Science from Bishop's University in Quebec, Canada as well as an M.Sc. in Development Banking from American University in Washington D.C.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Opening Speech by Fiona Jeffrey at World Travel Market
Baroness Morris of Bolton, President of World Travel Market’s Advisory Council, Boris Johnson, Mayor of London, Distinguished Guests and Friends.
30 years ago when World Travel Market took its first tentative steps, it was a very different world. All of us felt privileged to be involved in an industry that was, without a shadow of a doubt, going places.
Yes, inevitably, there were vast mountains to climb - but in those early years, it was exciting and invigorating.
True, the pace of change was swift and as the industry was changing, so were our customers.
They were demanding new thrills and experiences; they wanted cheap flights and an ever growing array of choice and budget options. Weekends away, holidays in far flung places, luxury, special interest breaks, gap years, adventure, extreme sports, remote islands.
Even the over 50s, fitter and more active then ever before, were choosing trips to Antarctica and journeys around-the-world.
There was an unquenchable thirst for everything new and different.
As the right to travel became almost a fundamental principle to millions across the world - regardless of background, class, creed or culture - World Travel Market played a crucial role. The event became the ever growing backdrop for increasing co-operation and integration between destinations and operators, conducting business and showcasing a widening range of services and products to a global marketplace. We wanted to create an atmosphere that generated dynamism and energy while at the same time fostering flexibility, understanding and above all, trust.
We embraced the immense opportunities of travel technology, the biggest revolution since the days when Thomas Cook first organised package holiday tours. A development that completely re-engineered distribution strategies, bringing new entrants to the travel industry and increasing competition.
As an industry we’ve faced pandemics, natural disasters, escalating fuel prices and of course 9/11.
It triggered a new, challenging era; the industry momentarily lost confidence; people, fearful of their lives and that of their staff and customers, even questioned whether World Travel Market should go ahead.
But it was also a time of extraordinary strength, a remarkable illustration of the industry coming together for the common good.
We united that year in a way that we’ve never done before or since, proving to ourselves as much as the rest of the world, that whatever was thrown at the industry we would remain steadfast.
As I remember that terrible time, it makes me realise that World Travel Market’s ability to mirror the industry in its many moods, is perhaps one of its greatest strengths. In times of difficulty, its good to have a focus that binds the industry while at the same time, delivers business and an opportunity to talk and debate.
However, it’s over these past two years, amidst the worst global economic downturn in living memory, that World Travel Market has strived even more to help the industry with a different mountain to conquer.
There’s an old saying here in the UK that every cloud has a silver lining and I hope we‘ve assisted business to ride out the storm more effectively by stressing the need to improve efficiency, introduce new skills, new markets and encourage creativity, innovation and, above all, supreme customer value.
In these difficult times, the private sector needs resolute public sector support, investment, forward thinking leadership and direction, cementing a fundamental relationship between business and government and introducing greater understanding and strong co-operation.
Tomorrow is the UNWTO Ministers’ Summit, hosted by World Travel Market, when more than one hundred Ministers and senior aides will face the challenges of the Road to Recovery and addressing issues such as climate change and poverty reduction as part of that pathway.
The idea of an annual summit for Ministers came from our determination to get to the heart of the matter, regardless of its complexities, embracing every level of decision making - from boardroom to government mandate.
We’ve spoken out too on the hot topics of the day. Responsible Tourism is one of those areas which targets the core of our industry and our 3 day programme at World Travel Market reflects this belief.
This is not a new issue for World Travel Market – we started this particular lobby in 1994, born from a simple belief that we have a responsibility to protect the very product we seek to promote.
WTM World Responsible Tourism Day is now in its third year, bringing together destinations and operators in what we hope is an inspiring way, educating and spurring the industry on to positive action.
Spotlight, World Travel Market’s colour magazine, champions what’s new and innovative in responsible tourism, revealing inspiring stories to preserve and protect the world, making better places for people to visit and better places for people to live.
Only you can judge whether we’ve achieved our aim to support industry business in every way we can, but at the same time, we’ve tried to keep World Travel Market fresh, productive and enjoyable.
Now we must look to the future - not the past.
Confront it and relish it.
Take a look at this….
(30TH ANNIVERSARY FILM)
As you see from our film, the future and the next 30 years are there for the taking.
There’s no shortage of ideas, no lack of vision for the long term forecast of travel and tourism.
But there’s a noticeable difference in the thinking behind the industry now compared to even a few years ago.
Consumers are becoming more caring, thoughtful and considerate. It may be the credit crunch, of course, and the need for everyone to ‘tighten their belts’. It might just be a universal response to such pressing issues as climate change or pictures of the sickening tide of third world poverty that floods into our living rooms and offices every day of the week that’s triggering a quiet revolution.
There’s a growing realisation that sustainability is absolutely integral to the industry’s future success. I make no apologies for sounding over dramatic when I say that the industry will not have a future at all unless it takes responsible tourism as seriously as customer service, value for money and comfy beds.
World Travel Market is also trying to put its house in order.
Let me say right away that we do not pretend to be perfect! But like thousands of others in this industry, we’re doing our level best to make positive change happen.
With the support and encouragement of Reed Exhibitions and our parent company Reed Elsevier, we’ve committed to a more sustainable event management system by being certified for BS8901, the internationally recognised British Standard for Sustainable Event Management.
Our commitment to support local communities close to ExCeL with The Richard House Hospice, providing care for terminally ill children, is complemented by our work with the international water-aid charity Just a Drop, launched by World Travel Market 11 years ago, and is now, helping more than one million children and their families in 28 countries.
Just a Drop could never have achieved this much without the help of so many companies and individuals, especially my own organisation Reed Exhibitions who have encouraged and supported us over the years with resource, office back-up and wise counsel.
Now as we look to the future to identify new opportunities, it’s apparent that sports tourism is one of the industry’s fastest growing sectors and this year, for the first time, World Travel Market is highlighting the business potential that sports tourism offers the industry.
Our guest of honour this morning is Boris Johnson, Mayor of London and when Boris memorably invited the world in Beijing to come to London for the 2012 Olympics, he was referring to what will possibly be the most frequented sports tourism event the world has ever known.
And right here at ExCeL London, you can already get a glimpse of what the London Olympics will look like. The £168m expansion of ExCeL will not only be the first stadia completed as part of the Games, but also forms part of World Travel Market’s spectacular ‘new’ home in November 2010.
The newly completed London ICC ExCeL increases space by 50%, including a 5,000 seat convention centre, and will become a focus for spectators around the world who watch the 2012 Olympics either on television or in person.
The prospect is a compelling one and World Travel Market has many exciting plans to lift the event into a dynamic and innovative era reflective of further industry progress.
Ladies and gentlemen, please give a warm travel industry welcome to Boris Johnson, Mayor of London.
30 years ago when World Travel Market took its first tentative steps, it was a very different world. All of us felt privileged to be involved in an industry that was, without a shadow of a doubt, going places.
Yes, inevitably, there were vast mountains to climb - but in those early years, it was exciting and invigorating.
True, the pace of change was swift and as the industry was changing, so were our customers.
They were demanding new thrills and experiences; they wanted cheap flights and an ever growing array of choice and budget options. Weekends away, holidays in far flung places, luxury, special interest breaks, gap years, adventure, extreme sports, remote islands.
Even the over 50s, fitter and more active then ever before, were choosing trips to Antarctica and journeys around-the-world.
There was an unquenchable thirst for everything new and different.
As the right to travel became almost a fundamental principle to millions across the world - regardless of background, class, creed or culture - World Travel Market played a crucial role. The event became the ever growing backdrop for increasing co-operation and integration between destinations and operators, conducting business and showcasing a widening range of services and products to a global marketplace. We wanted to create an atmosphere that generated dynamism and energy while at the same time fostering flexibility, understanding and above all, trust.
We embraced the immense opportunities of travel technology, the biggest revolution since the days when Thomas Cook first organised package holiday tours. A development that completely re-engineered distribution strategies, bringing new entrants to the travel industry and increasing competition.
As an industry we’ve faced pandemics, natural disasters, escalating fuel prices and of course 9/11.
It triggered a new, challenging era; the industry momentarily lost confidence; people, fearful of their lives and that of their staff and customers, even questioned whether World Travel Market should go ahead.
But it was also a time of extraordinary strength, a remarkable illustration of the industry coming together for the common good.
We united that year in a way that we’ve never done before or since, proving to ourselves as much as the rest of the world, that whatever was thrown at the industry we would remain steadfast.
As I remember that terrible time, it makes me realise that World Travel Market’s ability to mirror the industry in its many moods, is perhaps one of its greatest strengths. In times of difficulty, its good to have a focus that binds the industry while at the same time, delivers business and an opportunity to talk and debate.
However, it’s over these past two years, amidst the worst global economic downturn in living memory, that World Travel Market has strived even more to help the industry with a different mountain to conquer.
There’s an old saying here in the UK that every cloud has a silver lining and I hope we‘ve assisted business to ride out the storm more effectively by stressing the need to improve efficiency, introduce new skills, new markets and encourage creativity, innovation and, above all, supreme customer value.
In these difficult times, the private sector needs resolute public sector support, investment, forward thinking leadership and direction, cementing a fundamental relationship between business and government and introducing greater understanding and strong co-operation.
Tomorrow is the UNWTO Ministers’ Summit, hosted by World Travel Market, when more than one hundred Ministers and senior aides will face the challenges of the Road to Recovery and addressing issues such as climate change and poverty reduction as part of that pathway.
The idea of an annual summit for Ministers came from our determination to get to the heart of the matter, regardless of its complexities, embracing every level of decision making - from boardroom to government mandate.
We’ve spoken out too on the hot topics of the day. Responsible Tourism is one of those areas which targets the core of our industry and our 3 day programme at World Travel Market reflects this belief.
This is not a new issue for World Travel Market – we started this particular lobby in 1994, born from a simple belief that we have a responsibility to protect the very product we seek to promote.
WTM World Responsible Tourism Day is now in its third year, bringing together destinations and operators in what we hope is an inspiring way, educating and spurring the industry on to positive action.
Spotlight, World Travel Market’s colour magazine, champions what’s new and innovative in responsible tourism, revealing inspiring stories to preserve and protect the world, making better places for people to visit and better places for people to live.
Only you can judge whether we’ve achieved our aim to support industry business in every way we can, but at the same time, we’ve tried to keep World Travel Market fresh, productive and enjoyable.
Now we must look to the future - not the past.
Confront it and relish it.
Take a look at this….
(30TH ANNIVERSARY FILM)
As you see from our film, the future and the next 30 years are there for the taking.
There’s no shortage of ideas, no lack of vision for the long term forecast of travel and tourism.
But there’s a noticeable difference in the thinking behind the industry now compared to even a few years ago.
Consumers are becoming more caring, thoughtful and considerate. It may be the credit crunch, of course, and the need for everyone to ‘tighten their belts’. It might just be a universal response to such pressing issues as climate change or pictures of the sickening tide of third world poverty that floods into our living rooms and offices every day of the week that’s triggering a quiet revolution.
There’s a growing realisation that sustainability is absolutely integral to the industry’s future success. I make no apologies for sounding over dramatic when I say that the industry will not have a future at all unless it takes responsible tourism as seriously as customer service, value for money and comfy beds.
World Travel Market is also trying to put its house in order.
Let me say right away that we do not pretend to be perfect! But like thousands of others in this industry, we’re doing our level best to make positive change happen.
With the support and encouragement of Reed Exhibitions and our parent company Reed Elsevier, we’ve committed to a more sustainable event management system by being certified for BS8901, the internationally recognised British Standard for Sustainable Event Management.
Our commitment to support local communities close to ExCeL with The Richard House Hospice, providing care for terminally ill children, is complemented by our work with the international water-aid charity Just a Drop, launched by World Travel Market 11 years ago, and is now, helping more than one million children and their families in 28 countries.
Just a Drop could never have achieved this much without the help of so many companies and individuals, especially my own organisation Reed Exhibitions who have encouraged and supported us over the years with resource, office back-up and wise counsel.
Now as we look to the future to identify new opportunities, it’s apparent that sports tourism is one of the industry’s fastest growing sectors and this year, for the first time, World Travel Market is highlighting the business potential that sports tourism offers the industry.
Our guest of honour this morning is Boris Johnson, Mayor of London and when Boris memorably invited the world in Beijing to come to London for the 2012 Olympics, he was referring to what will possibly be the most frequented sports tourism event the world has ever known.
And right here at ExCeL London, you can already get a glimpse of what the London Olympics will look like. The £168m expansion of ExCeL will not only be the first stadia completed as part of the Games, but also forms part of World Travel Market’s spectacular ‘new’ home in November 2010.
The newly completed London ICC ExCeL increases space by 50%, including a 5,000 seat convention centre, and will become a focus for spectators around the world who watch the 2012 Olympics either on television or in person.
The prospect is a compelling one and World Travel Market has many exciting plans to lift the event into a dynamic and innovative era reflective of further industry progress.
Ladies and gentlemen, please give a warm travel industry welcome to Boris Johnson, Mayor of London.
Is tourism a priority for Trinidad and Tobago?
That's a question that I've been mulling for some time and I am not convinced that tourism is a priority in the oil and gas rich twin-island state.
For a while I was encouraged to believe T&T was getting serious about its tourism product. I was encouraged by the appearance of a draft tourism policy (yet another) and public consultations on said document, the boosting of room stock with the construction of the Hyatt Regency, Carlton Savannah and other hotels to come, and the hosting of two mega conferences, the Summit of the Americas and the Commonwealth Heads of Government Conference. For a while I believed the Government was finally getting serious and putting an effort into exploiting the country as a major player in the regional tourism industry.
Then came the budget and the biggest item under tourism was the multimillion dollar redevelopment of Maracas Bay, the most popular beach on the island. No mention of money to fund the new policy, no talk of money to market the country, nothing. I was confused; tourism is a labour intensive industry and with all the Prime Minister's talk about diversification of the economy, one would think developing the tourism industry would be a priority given the number of jobs that could be created within the industry.
This week I saw two articles that supports my view on where the country is headed as far as tourism is concerned. The first was a column in the Business Guardian from the Trinidad Hotels, Restaurants and Tourism Association.
In the column entitled Trinidad as a tourism product, the association basically said while the country has all the ingredients for a good tourism product, they do not constitute a reason for tourists to visit.
"The real problem lies in the fact that despite having dedicated Ministry of Tourism, complete with its own state agency for implementation, there is no c politically agreed strategic plan through which to understand consumer needs and develop that product accordingly. Despite all the talk of economic diversification, until tourism becomes a political priority, this won't happen," the association wrote.
The association called for a strategic retreat to assess the country's competitive potential and shape a plan for its development. I don't think that suggestion will be heeded and here's why.
In his Sunday Guardian column, Lennox Grant compared T&T's tourism efforts with that of Barbados.
"That tourism is the business of Barbados remains obvious on an island where projected climate-change effects on sea levels and temperatures were making banner headlines last week. That tourism is also Tobago’s business more and more attains the status of an inconvenient truth, on the way to becoming outdated. At the Cove complex opening, last month, Prime Minister Patrick Manning advertised Tobago’s future as an exporter of natural gas. THA spokesmen painted a high-wage, energy-industry picture, implying Tobago’s eventual adoption of that familiar Trinidad indifference to tourism."
With crime in Tobago, especially against foreigners, increasing, one has to wonder if the plan is indeed to diversify the sister isle away from its dependence on tourism.
It's no secret the Government of Trinidad and Tobago is all about promoting the energy sector and developing downstream industries. That's their idea of diversification. In the meantime the Tourism Development Company will continue to urge Trinis "to stay to get away". After all, if the country is not willing to do what is necessary to attract people to the island, then it's better to get the locals to fill up those fancy hotels...right?
For a while I was encouraged to believe T&T was getting serious about its tourism product. I was encouraged by the appearance of a draft tourism policy (yet another) and public consultations on said document, the boosting of room stock with the construction of the Hyatt Regency, Carlton Savannah and other hotels to come, and the hosting of two mega conferences, the Summit of the Americas and the Commonwealth Heads of Government Conference. For a while I believed the Government was finally getting serious and putting an effort into exploiting the country as a major player in the regional tourism industry.
Then came the budget and the biggest item under tourism was the multimillion dollar redevelopment of Maracas Bay, the most popular beach on the island. No mention of money to fund the new policy, no talk of money to market the country, nothing. I was confused; tourism is a labour intensive industry and with all the Prime Minister's talk about diversification of the economy, one would think developing the tourism industry would be a priority given the number of jobs that could be created within the industry.
This week I saw two articles that supports my view on where the country is headed as far as tourism is concerned. The first was a column in the Business Guardian from the Trinidad Hotels, Restaurants and Tourism Association.
In the column entitled Trinidad as a tourism product, the association basically said while the country has all the ingredients for a good tourism product, they do not constitute a reason for tourists to visit.
"The real problem lies in the fact that despite having dedicated Ministry of Tourism, complete with its own state agency for implementation, there is no c politically agreed strategic plan through which to understand consumer needs and develop that product accordingly. Despite all the talk of economic diversification, until tourism becomes a political priority, this won't happen," the association wrote.
The association called for a strategic retreat to assess the country's competitive potential and shape a plan for its development. I don't think that suggestion will be heeded and here's why.
In his Sunday Guardian column, Lennox Grant compared T&T's tourism efforts with that of Barbados.
"That tourism is the business of Barbados remains obvious on an island where projected climate-change effects on sea levels and temperatures were making banner headlines last week. That tourism is also Tobago’s business more and more attains the status of an inconvenient truth, on the way to becoming outdated. At the Cove complex opening, last month, Prime Minister Patrick Manning advertised Tobago’s future as an exporter of natural gas. THA spokesmen painted a high-wage, energy-industry picture, implying Tobago’s eventual adoption of that familiar Trinidad indifference to tourism."
With crime in Tobago, especially against foreigners, increasing, one has to wonder if the plan is indeed to diversify the sister isle away from its dependence on tourism.
It's no secret the Government of Trinidad and Tobago is all about promoting the energy sector and developing downstream industries. That's their idea of diversification. In the meantime the Tourism Development Company will continue to urge Trinis "to stay to get away". After all, if the country is not willing to do what is necessary to attract people to the island, then it's better to get the locals to fill up those fancy hotels...right?
Monday, September 7, 2009
New hotels for Trinidad, marketing boost for Tobago in 2010 budget
The Trinidad and Tobago government today unveiled its budget for the 2010 fiscal year. Finance minister Karen Nunez-Tesheira read the budget. Below is the part of the budget that deals with tourism.
Mr. Speaker, as we continue our diversification thrust in keeping with our Vision 2020 National Strategic Plan, the Government’s approach to Tourism has been quite novel as we leverage our emerging position as a financial centre with the traditional leisure options to extend our markets. We are fortunate to have three high quality products and experiences to market internationally, namely, Trinidad, Tobago and Trinidad and Tobago.
Mr. Speaker, although this has been a challenging year for the tourism sector globally, Trinidad and Tobago has succeeded in maintaining its position as a preferred tourist destination and has a good story to tell. This performance was bolstered by the increased business tourist arrivals generated by the hosting of the 5th Summit of the Americas Conference in April of this year which put paid to any doubts of our ability to market destination Trinidad and Tobago to a full range of clients.
During the new fiscal year the Government will maintain this momentum in our quest to achieve a sustainable tourism sector by increasing airlift and room stock; enhancing the tourism plant; implementing an aggressive campaign to expand the markets for business, leisure and domestic tourism and by working with stakeholders in the sector to prevent the erosion of this destination’s Caribbean market share, as the strong competitive surge of response to these difficult new economic conditions by other Caribbean destinations become manifest.
Mr. Speaker, airlift and the significant escalation in travel costs are a serious challenge to the tourism industry worldwide. Airlines will choose routes that will maximize their returns and will go to countries with a critical mass in terms of quality accommodation that will support a significant share of their load factor. This means that we have to create the environment which will encourage direct flights and provide inducements for co-marketing arrangements that maintain airlift.
By the end of 2009, we would have emerged in a much stronger position in terms of available business oriented hotel room stock and meeting and conference facilities through the country’s hosting of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in November this year.
An additional 50 rooms have been built by Cara Suites in Claxton Bay, as part of their expansion of the existing hotel. The Star Hotel in Piarco will add 120 rooms, the Carlton Savannah 165 rooms and the Academy for the Performing Arts a further 52 rooms before the end of the year. Mr. Speaker, a large international hotel chain has shown tremendous interest in constructing a hotel at Invaders Bay which is now available to potential investors.
We will introduce the Tobago destination to groups of third party intermediaries in North America who are relatively unfamiliar with the Trinidad and Tobago destination. During the new fiscal year by focusing on Tobago’s traditional niche market strengths, dive and eco-tourism for instance, we will further and more widely introduce the destination’s product to these travel intermediaries with particular outreach to a select number of Caribbean market specialists in these areas. The Tourism Development Company (TDC) will work even more aggressively and actively with foreign outbound travel trade specialists to further induce their interest to sell the destination and create a wider perception of “value for spend” among their clients.
Mr. Speaker, in previous Budgets, the Government outlined its plans to refurbish and restore popular local sites of interest to increase the attractiveness of the destination. To this end, drainage works and new and improved signage at Manzanilla, Macqueripe and Vessigny have been completed. The upgrade of these facilities for access to persons with disabilities is expected to be completed shortly.
The Maracas Redesign and Restoration Project began in April this year and is expected to be completed by September 2012. The completed new Maracas Beach Facility will provide increased beach space for visitors in addition to new facilities such as an events area, bathrooms, main pavilion and administration building. The upgraded beach facility, the associated infrastructure and improved utilities will provide additional employment and a better quality of life for the North Coast communities. It will also provide an optimum beach experience for nationals and visitors and contribute to the improvement of the overall tourism product of Trinidad and Tobago.
Mr. Speaker, as we continue our diversification thrust in keeping with our Vision 2020 National Strategic Plan, the Government’s approach to Tourism has been quite novel as we leverage our emerging position as a financial centre with the traditional leisure options to extend our markets. We are fortunate to have three high quality products and experiences to market internationally, namely, Trinidad, Tobago and Trinidad and Tobago.
Mr. Speaker, although this has been a challenging year for the tourism sector globally, Trinidad and Tobago has succeeded in maintaining its position as a preferred tourist destination and has a good story to tell. This performance was bolstered by the increased business tourist arrivals generated by the hosting of the 5th Summit of the Americas Conference in April of this year which put paid to any doubts of our ability to market destination Trinidad and Tobago to a full range of clients.
During the new fiscal year the Government will maintain this momentum in our quest to achieve a sustainable tourism sector by increasing airlift and room stock; enhancing the tourism plant; implementing an aggressive campaign to expand the markets for business, leisure and domestic tourism and by working with stakeholders in the sector to prevent the erosion of this destination’s Caribbean market share, as the strong competitive surge of response to these difficult new economic conditions by other Caribbean destinations become manifest.
Mr. Speaker, airlift and the significant escalation in travel costs are a serious challenge to the tourism industry worldwide. Airlines will choose routes that will maximize their returns and will go to countries with a critical mass in terms of quality accommodation that will support a significant share of their load factor. This means that we have to create the environment which will encourage direct flights and provide inducements for co-marketing arrangements that maintain airlift.
By the end of 2009, we would have emerged in a much stronger position in terms of available business oriented hotel room stock and meeting and conference facilities through the country’s hosting of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in November this year.
An additional 50 rooms have been built by Cara Suites in Claxton Bay, as part of their expansion of the existing hotel. The Star Hotel in Piarco will add 120 rooms, the Carlton Savannah 165 rooms and the Academy for the Performing Arts a further 52 rooms before the end of the year. Mr. Speaker, a large international hotel chain has shown tremendous interest in constructing a hotel at Invaders Bay which is now available to potential investors.
We will introduce the Tobago destination to groups of third party intermediaries in North America who are relatively unfamiliar with the Trinidad and Tobago destination. During the new fiscal year by focusing on Tobago’s traditional niche market strengths, dive and eco-tourism for instance, we will further and more widely introduce the destination’s product to these travel intermediaries with particular outreach to a select number of Caribbean market specialists in these areas. The Tourism Development Company (TDC) will work even more aggressively and actively with foreign outbound travel trade specialists to further induce their interest to sell the destination and create a wider perception of “value for spend” among their clients.
Mr. Speaker, in previous Budgets, the Government outlined its plans to refurbish and restore popular local sites of interest to increase the attractiveness of the destination. To this end, drainage works and new and improved signage at Manzanilla, Macqueripe and Vessigny have been completed. The upgrade of these facilities for access to persons with disabilities is expected to be completed shortly.
The Maracas Redesign and Restoration Project began in April this year and is expected to be completed by September 2012. The completed new Maracas Beach Facility will provide increased beach space for visitors in addition to new facilities such as an events area, bathrooms, main pavilion and administration building. The upgraded beach facility, the associated infrastructure and improved utilities will provide additional employment and a better quality of life for the North Coast communities. It will also provide an optimum beach experience for nationals and visitors and contribute to the improvement of the overall tourism product of Trinidad and Tobago.
Monday, August 24, 2009
WTTC launches 'Call for Entries' for 2010 Tourism for Tomorrow Awards
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) is now inviting tourism companies and organisations from around the world that can demonstrate best practice in sustainable tourism development to submit their applications for the 2010 Tourism for Tomorrow Awards. The deadline for applications is Wednesday 2 December 2009.
To quote Jean-Claude Baumgarten, President & CEO of WTTC: "The Awards, now in their sixth year under WTTC's stewardship, exemplify the Council's multi-stakeholder vision set out in the Blueprint for New Tourism that looks beyond short-term considerations and focuses on benefits not only for the people who travel, but also for people in the communities they visit, and for their respective natural, social and cultural environments."
"The Travel & Tourism industry as a whole has radically changed the way it views sustainability, moving it from the sidelines to centre stage," says Costas Christ, Chairman of Judges of the Tourism for Tomorrow Awards.
The finalists and winners will:
* be publicly recognised and will meet government and industry leaders at the Awards ceremony which takes place at WTTC's annual Global Travel & Tourism Summit
* receive outstanding, international media exposure thanks to WTTC's extensive media partnerships
* be endorsed by a panel of judges comprising internationally acclaimed experts in sustainable tourism.
The Awards are known for their rigorous judging process that follows a three-step approach. To quote Costas Christ: "They are the only global accolade in the field of sustainable travel practices that includes an on-site verification process. This is really the signature key of these Awards."
The Awards are determined in four categories, including:
* Destination Stewardship Award: This award goes to a destination - country, region, state, or town - which comprises a network of tourism enterprises and organisations that show dedication to, and success in, maintaining a programme of sustainable tourism management at the destination level, incorporating social, cultural, environmental and economic aspects as well as multi-stakeholder engagement.
* Conservation Award: Open to any tourism business, organisation or attraction, including lodges, hotels, or tour operators, able to demonstrate that their tourism development and operations have made a tangible contribution to the conservation of natural heritage.
* Community Benefit Award: This award is for a tourism initiative that has effectively demonstrated direct benefits to local people, including capacity building, the transfer of industry skills, and support for community development.
* Global Tourism Business Award: Open to any large company from any sector of Travel & Tourism - cruise lines, hotel groups, airlines, tour operators, etc - with at least 200 full-time employees and operating in more than one country or in more than one destination in a single country, this award recognises best practices in sustainable tourism at a large company level.
The Tourism for Tomorrow Awards are endorsed by WTTC Members, as well as other organisations and companies. They are organised in association with two Strategic Partners:Travelport and The Leading Travel Companies' Conservation Foundation. Other sponsors/supporters include: Adventures in Travel Expo, BEST Education Network, the Daily Telegraph, Friends of Nature, Rainforest Alliance, Reed Travel Exhibitions, Sustainable Travel International, Travesias, USA Today and the World Heritage Alliance.
For further information about the Tourism for Tomorrow Awards or for details on how to apply, please contact Susann Kruegel, Manager e-Strategy and Tourism for Tomorrow Awards at info@tourismfortomorrow.com or by phone on +44 (0) 20 7481 8007, or visit our website at www.tourismfortomorrow.com
To quote Jean-Claude Baumgarten, President & CEO of WTTC: "The Awards, now in their sixth year under WTTC's stewardship, exemplify the Council's multi-stakeholder vision set out in the Blueprint for New Tourism that looks beyond short-term considerations and focuses on benefits not only for the people who travel, but also for people in the communities they visit, and for their respective natural, social and cultural environments."
"The Travel & Tourism industry as a whole has radically changed the way it views sustainability, moving it from the sidelines to centre stage," says Costas Christ, Chairman of Judges of the Tourism for Tomorrow Awards.
The finalists and winners will:
* be publicly recognised and will meet government and industry leaders at the Awards ceremony which takes place at WTTC's annual Global Travel & Tourism Summit
* receive outstanding, international media exposure thanks to WTTC's extensive media partnerships
* be endorsed by a panel of judges comprising internationally acclaimed experts in sustainable tourism.
The Awards are known for their rigorous judging process that follows a three-step approach. To quote Costas Christ: "They are the only global accolade in the field of sustainable travel practices that includes an on-site verification process. This is really the signature key of these Awards."
The Awards are determined in four categories, including:
* Destination Stewardship Award: This award goes to a destination - country, region, state, or town - which comprises a network of tourism enterprises and organisations that show dedication to, and success in, maintaining a programme of sustainable tourism management at the destination level, incorporating social, cultural, environmental and economic aspects as well as multi-stakeholder engagement.
* Conservation Award: Open to any tourism business, organisation or attraction, including lodges, hotels, or tour operators, able to demonstrate that their tourism development and operations have made a tangible contribution to the conservation of natural heritage.
* Community Benefit Award: This award is for a tourism initiative that has effectively demonstrated direct benefits to local people, including capacity building, the transfer of industry skills, and support for community development.
* Global Tourism Business Award: Open to any large company from any sector of Travel & Tourism - cruise lines, hotel groups, airlines, tour operators, etc - with at least 200 full-time employees and operating in more than one country or in more than one destination in a single country, this award recognises best practices in sustainable tourism at a large company level.
The Tourism for Tomorrow Awards are endorsed by WTTC Members, as well as other organisations and companies. They are organised in association with two Strategic Partners:Travelport and The Leading Travel Companies' Conservation Foundation. Other sponsors/supporters include: Adventures in Travel Expo, BEST Education Network, the Daily Telegraph, Friends of Nature, Rainforest Alliance, Reed Travel Exhibitions, Sustainable Travel International, Travesias, USA Today and the World Heritage Alliance.
For further information about the Tourism for Tomorrow Awards or for details on how to apply, please contact Susann Kruegel, Manager e-Strategy and Tourism for Tomorrow Awards at info@tourismfortomorrow.com or by phone on +44 (0) 20 7481 8007, or visit our website at www.tourismfortomorrow.com
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Presenters announced for conference on responsible tourism
On October 19th to the 23rd, 2009 the Third International Conference on Responsible Tourism in Destinations will be carried out in Belmopan City, Belize. Delegates from all around the world will convene to witness, discuss, and share presentations and their professional hindsight on some pressing issues of the Global Tourism Industry.
Our list of presenters includes Dr. Harold Goodwin, ICRT-UK; Adama Bah ICRT-West Africa; Ron Mader, Planeta.com; Sharon Pererra, Protected Areas Conservation Trust; Guido Bauer, Green Globe International; Andrea Gough, World Heritage Alliance; Dr. Bill Eishbaum, World Wildlife Fund; Dr. Martha Honey, CESD; Dr. Robert Richardson, Michigan State University, and the list of respected experts in the Tourism and Sustainable Development field continues.
These panelists will be expounding on topics that include Tourism and Local Economic Development; Tourism Impacts on Climate Change; The Impacts of Cruise Tourism; Second Homes and Condominiums and their impact on local communities; Tourism Impacts on Marine and Coastal Zones; and Tourism Planning for Natural Disaster and Pandemics.
The Co-directors and team at ICRT-Belize and the country of Belize, invites all to visit and participate in this grand one-week event. For more information, please feel free to contact info@icrtbelize.org or abil@icrtbelize.org.
Our list of presenters includes Dr. Harold Goodwin, ICRT-UK; Adama Bah ICRT-West Africa; Ron Mader, Planeta.com; Sharon Pererra, Protected Areas Conservation Trust; Guido Bauer, Green Globe International; Andrea Gough, World Heritage Alliance; Dr. Bill Eishbaum, World Wildlife Fund; Dr. Martha Honey, CESD; Dr. Robert Richardson, Michigan State University, and the list of respected experts in the Tourism and Sustainable Development field continues.
These panelists will be expounding on topics that include Tourism and Local Economic Development; Tourism Impacts on Climate Change; The Impacts of Cruise Tourism; Second Homes and Condominiums and their impact on local communities; Tourism Impacts on Marine and Coastal Zones; and Tourism Planning for Natural Disaster and Pandemics.
The Co-directors and team at ICRT-Belize and the country of Belize, invites all to visit and participate in this grand one-week event. For more information, please feel free to contact info@icrtbelize.org or abil@icrtbelize.org.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Caribbean Airlines clears the air
PIARCO, Trinidad and Tobago – Caribbean Ailines CEO, Philip Saunders responds to statements made in the national media regarding Caribbean Airlines.
There are several points which we wish to clarify, Caribbean Airlines has made great progress in financial terms since its launch. In 2007, our financial statements illustrate that Caribbean Airlines exceeded our business plan objectives with a profit of USD $6.9 million before formation, structuring and transition costs. In 2008, we committed to delivering a break even position and in fact, achieved a net profit on a fully consolidated basis.
At present, the airline industry is facing the most challenging times in recent history and Caribbean Airlines has not been exempt from these negative effects. As a result, we are working hard to ensure that the company is able to return a profit for 2009 and shall continue to focus on growing passenger numbers, maximizing revenues and rigorously addressing our cost base.
On the basis of our highly competitive fares, industry-leading on-time performance and outstanding full service product, we are confident that we shall continue to build customer loyalty. We provided service for 1,642,998 customers in 2008 - compared to 849,298 in 2007 - and are well on the way to achieving our highest passenger numbers to date in 2009. It should also be pointed out that, inclusive of the London route, BWIA transported 1,198,396 passengers in 2004, 1,101,602 in 2005 and 961,311 in 2006. It is clear that Caribbean Airlines has become the carrier of choice to, from and within the Caribbean.
Our airline must continue on a path that makes economic sense if it is to function as a sustainable and profitable company. Given the current climate where even industry leaders such as Delta Airlines and British Airways are seriously challenged, we must ensure that all decisions – including any potential service to London – are accompanied by robust business cases which apply to our economic model.
Chief Executive Officer
There are several points which we wish to clarify, Caribbean Airlines has made great progress in financial terms since its launch. In 2007, our financial statements illustrate that Caribbean Airlines exceeded our business plan objectives with a profit of USD $6.9 million before formation, structuring and transition costs. In 2008, we committed to delivering a break even position and in fact, achieved a net profit on a fully consolidated basis.
At present, the airline industry is facing the most challenging times in recent history and Caribbean Airlines has not been exempt from these negative effects. As a result, we are working hard to ensure that the company is able to return a profit for 2009 and shall continue to focus on growing passenger numbers, maximizing revenues and rigorously addressing our cost base.
On the basis of our highly competitive fares, industry-leading on-time performance and outstanding full service product, we are confident that we shall continue to build customer loyalty. We provided service for 1,642,998 customers in 2008 - compared to 849,298 in 2007 - and are well on the way to achieving our highest passenger numbers to date in 2009. It should also be pointed out that, inclusive of the London route, BWIA transported 1,198,396 passengers in 2004, 1,101,602 in 2005 and 961,311 in 2006. It is clear that Caribbean Airlines has become the carrier of choice to, from and within the Caribbean.
Our airline must continue on a path that makes economic sense if it is to function as a sustainable and profitable company. Given the current climate where even industry leaders such as Delta Airlines and British Airways are seriously challenged, we must ensure that all decisions – including any potential service to London – are accompanied by robust business cases which apply to our economic model.
Chief Executive Officer
Friday, June 12, 2009
CTO honours Caribbean media
The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) paid tribute to members of the U.S. and Caribbean media communities during a special Caribbean Media Awards Luncheon on Thursday, June 11 at the New Yorker Hotel as part of Caribbean Week in New York 2009 (www.onecaribbean.org). David Bear, former travel editor of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, was honored with the afternoon’s grand prize of “Best in Show” for his newspaper article entitled “Casual Anguilla Harbors Miles of Superb Beaches.” Bear also took home the prize for “Best Feature Article in a Consumer Newspaper” for the same.
“The CTO Awards are a vitally important part of Caribbean Week in New York, serving as our annual recognition for the national media in both the United States and the Caribbean who have been positively advocating tourism to the Caribbean for so many years,” said Hugh Riley, interim secretary general of the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO). “Each year, we receive hundreds of superior submissions in every media category and it’s always a difficult decision to choose just one winner from each. This year was no exception."
Tourism officials, Caribbean tourism suppliers and the media were in attendance at the Caribbean Media Awards Luncheon, where they recognized some of the leading journalists in the United States and Caribbean. Winners included:
* David Swanson, “Our Top 25 All Stars” in Caribbean Travel & Life – Best Feature Article in a Consumer Magazine (USA)
* Cheray O’Neal, “Home Away from Home” in Black Meetings & Tourism – Best Feature Article in a Trade Magazine (USA)
* James Schnepf, “The Golden Age of Nevis” in Caribbean Travel & Life – Best Photography (USA)
* Dana Popoff, “Feasting on Waves: Island Thyme” on Food Network – Best Broadcast Feature (USA)
* Michael Robinson, “Cockpit Country” in Sky Writings - Best Feature Article (Caribbean)
More than 100 submissions were received across six categories in print and broadcast media, in addition to the “Best in Show” winner which was chosen out of the six finalists.
Organized by CTO, Caribbean Week in New York brings together the most influential policy makers, marketing professionals and tourism industry officials to interact and discuss both tourism and investment opportunities in the region. It also serves to provide a taste of the Caribbean, to present vacation special offers, inspire travel and showcase the Region’s diversity to more than 10,000 attendees who participated in a number of targeted events hosted throughout the week including a Caribbean Travel & Cultural Fair, Media Marketplace, Caribbean Marketing Conference, Caribbean Treats: Food, Rum & Rhythm, Allied Members Awards Luncheon and Diaspora Workshop.
“The CTO Awards are a vitally important part of Caribbean Week in New York, serving as our annual recognition for the national media in both the United States and the Caribbean who have been positively advocating tourism to the Caribbean for so many years,” said Hugh Riley, interim secretary general of the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO). “Each year, we receive hundreds of superior submissions in every media category and it’s always a difficult decision to choose just one winner from each. This year was no exception."
Tourism officials, Caribbean tourism suppliers and the media were in attendance at the Caribbean Media Awards Luncheon, where they recognized some of the leading journalists in the United States and Caribbean. Winners included:
* David Swanson, “Our Top 25 All Stars” in Caribbean Travel & Life – Best Feature Article in a Consumer Magazine (USA)
* Cheray O’Neal, “Home Away from Home” in Black Meetings & Tourism – Best Feature Article in a Trade Magazine (USA)
* James Schnepf, “The Golden Age of Nevis” in Caribbean Travel & Life – Best Photography (USA)
* Dana Popoff, “Feasting on Waves: Island Thyme” on Food Network – Best Broadcast Feature (USA)
* Michael Robinson, “Cockpit Country” in Sky Writings - Best Feature Article (Caribbean)
More than 100 submissions were received across six categories in print and broadcast media, in addition to the “Best in Show” winner which was chosen out of the six finalists.
Organized by CTO, Caribbean Week in New York brings together the most influential policy makers, marketing professionals and tourism industry officials to interact and discuss both tourism and investment opportunities in the region. It also serves to provide a taste of the Caribbean, to present vacation special offers, inspire travel and showcase the Region’s diversity to more than 10,000 attendees who participated in a number of targeted events hosted throughout the week including a Caribbean Travel & Cultural Fair, Media Marketplace, Caribbean Marketing Conference, Caribbean Treats: Food, Rum & Rhythm, Allied Members Awards Luncheon and Diaspora Workshop.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Investment in human resources key talking point at Curacao conference
WILLEMSTAD, Curacao (May 27, 2009) – Tourism leaders across the region are being encouraged to value the importance of human resources in the sector.
The subject of investment in human resources development was a key talking point at the opening of the 5th Annual Caribbean Tourism Human Resources Conference here today.
The Commissioner of Tourism for Curacao, Hon. Eugene Rhuggenaath, told delegates that in order to remain competitive the tourism sector must invest heavily in staff training.
“The principles of sustainable tourism development are applicable towards benefitting local communities and other stakeholders through training, education, participating in management; and for this to happen there needs to be extensive training of human resources at all levels,” Mr. Rhuggenaath said.
The Commissioner of Tourism estimated that by 2011 Curacao’s hotel room stock would double from the current four thousand to over eight thousand. This, he said, would provide challenges for tourism leaders in the area of human resources.
“In order to deliver the growth plans across the sectors and to focus on high quality tourism it is essential to develop the product not only by improving the physical tourism product but also the human resources component. In this the availability of appropriately trained manpower is crucial to success,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Executive Director of the Curacao Tourism Board and Director of Tourism Evita Nita also emphasized the importance of human resources training in the sector. She told conference participants this would lead to a more highly motivated workforce.
“It is imperative for both our tourism workforce as well as our entire community to be motivated to deliver high level experience and service to our guests,” the director of tourism said. “You should see investment in our human resources not only as a means to achieve a better tourism sector but to reach a stage where our whole community is motivated to work towards a better island.”
The May 27 to 29 conference has as its theme, Best Practices for Creating a Motivated and Productive Tourism Workforce. The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO)’s Human Resources Director, Bonita Morgan said the theme was critical in these trying times for the tourism sector.
“The theme becomes even more complex to address in this difficult economic environment where there are job layoffs and contraction, high feelings of stress related to job security and even levels of distrust,” Ms Morgan said. “We have brought together a number of high quality speakers and presenters to share strategies, their experiences, best practices and case studies that can help us to address how we can truly create a motivated and productive tourism workforce in our countries, our organisations and in the units and departments we work within.”
The conference, being held at Breezes Curacao Resort, Spa & Casino, is organised by the CTO in collaboration with the Curacao Tourism Board (CTB).
The subject of investment in human resources development was a key talking point at the opening of the 5th Annual Caribbean Tourism Human Resources Conference here today.
The Commissioner of Tourism for Curacao, Hon. Eugene Rhuggenaath, told delegates that in order to remain competitive the tourism sector must invest heavily in staff training.
“The principles of sustainable tourism development are applicable towards benefitting local communities and other stakeholders through training, education, participating in management; and for this to happen there needs to be extensive training of human resources at all levels,” Mr. Rhuggenaath said.
The Commissioner of Tourism estimated that by 2011 Curacao’s hotel room stock would double from the current four thousand to over eight thousand. This, he said, would provide challenges for tourism leaders in the area of human resources.
“In order to deliver the growth plans across the sectors and to focus on high quality tourism it is essential to develop the product not only by improving the physical tourism product but also the human resources component. In this the availability of appropriately trained manpower is crucial to success,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Executive Director of the Curacao Tourism Board and Director of Tourism Evita Nita also emphasized the importance of human resources training in the sector. She told conference participants this would lead to a more highly motivated workforce.
“It is imperative for both our tourism workforce as well as our entire community to be motivated to deliver high level experience and service to our guests,” the director of tourism said. “You should see investment in our human resources not only as a means to achieve a better tourism sector but to reach a stage where our whole community is motivated to work towards a better island.”
The May 27 to 29 conference has as its theme, Best Practices for Creating a Motivated and Productive Tourism Workforce. The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO)’s Human Resources Director, Bonita Morgan said the theme was critical in these trying times for the tourism sector.
“The theme becomes even more complex to address in this difficult economic environment where there are job layoffs and contraction, high feelings of stress related to job security and even levels of distrust,” Ms Morgan said. “We have brought together a number of high quality speakers and presenters to share strategies, their experiences, best practices and case studies that can help us to address how we can truly create a motivated and productive tourism workforce in our countries, our organisations and in the units and departments we work within.”
The conference, being held at Breezes Curacao Resort, Spa & Casino, is organised by the CTO in collaboration with the Curacao Tourism Board (CTB).
Tourism HR professionals challenged to adopt new approaches
WILLEMSTAD, Curacao (May 28, 2009) – Caribbean tourism human resources professionals meeting here have been challenged to adopt a new approach to human resources that will lead to a more hospitable experience for visitors.
Professor Nigel Hemmington of the Auckland University of Technology (AUT) told delegates attending the 5th annual Caribbean Tourism Human Resources Conference that this new approach must take the emphasis away from service delivery to the delivery of experiences that are personal and memorable.
“Customers do not buy service delivery, they buy experiences. They don’t buy service quality, they buy memories. They don’t buy food and drink, they buy meal experiences. They don’t buy events and functions, they buy occasions,” said Hemmington who researches customer experiences, professional development and learning, and consumer behaviour in hospitality and tourism.
In a presentation entitled, From Service to Experience: The New Hospitable Experience Paradigm, Mr. Hemmington said the paradigm shift from services to hospitable tourism means customer service becomes a performance and the staff become part of the cast.
“Increasingly, tourism and hospitality businesses are using a different language. Instead of talking about customers, managers and staff they talk about guests, hosts and cast,” the Pro Vice Chancellor and Dean of AUT said.
“Think of your staff as performers and think about the opportunities for your staff to perform and if they are now performers they are going to think ‘I am not just a waiter now, I am part of the performance. Look at my skill, look at what I can do,’” he said.
Mr. Hemmington explained that performing does not mean trying to tell jokes and being comedians but the manner in which service is delivered.
During the May 27 to 29 conference, participants will explore how to create a culture of lifelong learning at work; managing stress in difficult times; as well as how to measure and monitor productivity and performance in the workplace, among other topics.
The conference, which has as its theme, Best Practices for Creating a Motivated and Productive Tourism Workforce, is organised by the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), in collaboration with the Curacao Tourist Board.
Professor Nigel Hemmington of the Auckland University of Technology (AUT) told delegates attending the 5th annual Caribbean Tourism Human Resources Conference that this new approach must take the emphasis away from service delivery to the delivery of experiences that are personal and memorable.
“Customers do not buy service delivery, they buy experiences. They don’t buy service quality, they buy memories. They don’t buy food and drink, they buy meal experiences. They don’t buy events and functions, they buy occasions,” said Hemmington who researches customer experiences, professional development and learning, and consumer behaviour in hospitality and tourism.
In a presentation entitled, From Service to Experience: The New Hospitable Experience Paradigm, Mr. Hemmington said the paradigm shift from services to hospitable tourism means customer service becomes a performance and the staff become part of the cast.
“Increasingly, tourism and hospitality businesses are using a different language. Instead of talking about customers, managers and staff they talk about guests, hosts and cast,” the Pro Vice Chancellor and Dean of AUT said.
“Think of your staff as performers and think about the opportunities for your staff to perform and if they are now performers they are going to think ‘I am not just a waiter now, I am part of the performance. Look at my skill, look at what I can do,’” he said.
Mr. Hemmington explained that performing does not mean trying to tell jokes and being comedians but the manner in which service is delivered.
During the May 27 to 29 conference, participants will explore how to create a culture of lifelong learning at work; managing stress in difficult times; as well as how to measure and monitor productivity and performance in the workplace, among other topics.
The conference, which has as its theme, Best Practices for Creating a Motivated and Productive Tourism Workforce, is organised by the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), in collaboration with the Curacao Tourist Board.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Jamaican tourist industry fights for survival
The Jamaican Hotel and Tourism Association invited regional journalists to its AGM. The Business Guardian reports today that survival was the focus of the talks. Read more here
Trinidad and Tobago's draft tourism policy available for comment
Public consultations on the draft national tourism policy for Trinidad and Tobago will be held on May 25 in Trinidad at the Hilton Trinidad and May 26 in Tobago at Coco Reef Resort.
Interested persons can download the policy from the Ministry of Tourism's website
Interested persons can download the policy from the Ministry of Tourism's website
Monday, May 11, 2009
Jamaica benefits from Mexico's swine flu snub
As cruise ships and tourists sunb Mexico in the aftermath of the Swine flu or H1N1 virus that has killed hundreds there, other countries are reaping the rewards.
TUI Travel, the owner of Thomson holidays and Europe's biggest tour operator, says Jamaica, the Dominican Republic and Egypt have emerged as the top destinations for tourists avoiding Mexico.
The company says bookings to Jamaica are up 30 per cent, to Egypt by 23 per cent and to the Dominican Republic by 19 per cent in the last two weeks, according to a report in The Telegraph.
TUI Travel, the owner of Thomson holidays and Europe's biggest tour operator, says Jamaica, the Dominican Republic and Egypt have emerged as the top destinations for tourists avoiding Mexico.
The company says bookings to Jamaica are up 30 per cent, to Egypt by 23 per cent and to the Dominican Republic by 19 per cent in the last two weeks, according to a report in The Telegraph.
Best Romantic Caribbean Sunsets picked
Travel and Leisure has picked the islands and resorts with the best view of the sun setting. Below are their picks of “Most Romantic Caribbean Sunsets”.
Boqueron Beach, Puerto Rico is famous for the “green flash” sunset.
Eden Rock Hotel on St. Bart’s offers comfortable viewing space from an open-air deck off their French restaurant.
Jade Mountain on St. Lucia has west-facing rooms that offer panoramic rooms and private infinity pools.
Landfall Park, San Salvador in the Bahamas features a marker commemorating Christopher Columbus’s first landfall in the New World.
Mount Sage National Park on Tortola houses the highest point on the Virgin Islands.
Peter Island Resort on Peter Island offers an evening “Sunset at the Loop” tour for guests.
Rick’s Café, Jamaica is famous for sunset views from the terrace.
Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman, is ideal for setting up your own private viewing space.
Shirley Heights has the highest point on Antigua, perfect for sky gazing.
Sunshine’s Grill, Nevis features outdoor tables off Pinney’s Beach, with views of St. Kitts.
Boqueron Beach, Puerto Rico is famous for the “green flash” sunset.
Eden Rock Hotel on St. Bart’s offers comfortable viewing space from an open-air deck off their French restaurant.
Jade Mountain on St. Lucia has west-facing rooms that offer panoramic rooms and private infinity pools.
Landfall Park, San Salvador in the Bahamas features a marker commemorating Christopher Columbus’s first landfall in the New World.
Mount Sage National Park on Tortola houses the highest point on the Virgin Islands.
Peter Island Resort on Peter Island offers an evening “Sunset at the Loop” tour for guests.
Rick’s Café, Jamaica is famous for sunset views from the terrace.
Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman, is ideal for setting up your own private viewing space.
Shirley Heights has the highest point on Antigua, perfect for sky gazing.
Sunshine’s Grill, Nevis features outdoor tables off Pinney’s Beach, with views of St. Kitts.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Caribbean chefs to square off at Taste of the Caribbean
Thirteen culinary teams featuring Caribbean chefs will take the stage at the Taste of the Caribbean which runs from July 12-14 at the Caribe Hilton, Puerto Rico.
The teams will participate in qualifying rounds of "live kitchen" competitions, preparing a three-course meal in under four hours, using a “mystery basket” of ingredients that is kept secret until the competition begins.
The competing culinary teams are from Anguilla, Antigua, Barbados, BVI, Curacao, Grenada, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, St Lucia, St Maarten/St Martin, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago and USVI.
Patrons can watch these masters at work, as they sift, chop, sauté, reduce, and garnish indigenous Caribbean ingredients to create artistic, mouth-watering delicacies, right before your very eyes, in a live-kitchen environment, and complete the experience by signing up to eat at the lunch or dinner cook-offs, paired with wines.
For more information visit: www.caribbeanhotelandtourism.com
The teams will participate in qualifying rounds of "live kitchen" competitions, preparing a three-course meal in under four hours, using a “mystery basket” of ingredients that is kept secret until the competition begins.
The competing culinary teams are from Anguilla, Antigua, Barbados, BVI, Curacao, Grenada, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, St Lucia, St Maarten/St Martin, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago and USVI.
Patrons can watch these masters at work, as they sift, chop, sauté, reduce, and garnish indigenous Caribbean ingredients to create artistic, mouth-watering delicacies, right before your very eyes, in a live-kitchen environment, and complete the experience by signing up to eat at the lunch or dinner cook-offs, paired with wines.
For more information visit: www.caribbeanhotelandtourism.com
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Statement by The Hon. John Maginley, Chairman, CTO Council of Ministers, on Swine Flu
Although there are currently no identifiable cases of swine flu among the 33 Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) member countries, the region is taking a proactive effort related to this virus.
As has been reported, regional health officials have been meeting to determine a strategy to deal with the Swine Flu virus after outbreaks were reported in Mexico, the United States, Canada and Europe.
The CTO has been in contact with the Caribbean Epidemiology Centre (CAREC) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the World Health Organization (WHO), as well as with member countries as we gather information and review the global situation. While the Swine Flu virus has not been reported in the Caribbean, member countries have already begun adopting measures for greater surveillance to prevent the virus from spreading to the region.
The CTO’s Web site, www.onecaribbean.org provides updated information from member countries and links to the PAHO (www.paho.org) site, as well as the World Health Organization (www.who.int/en/) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/).
Travellers planning visits to the Caribbean should also visit the Web sites of individual member nations for any further information on individual policies and screening procedures relating to prevention of the Swine Flu.
The CTO will continue to monitor the global situation closely. In the meantime, travelers should follow simple guidelines to help prevent the spread of the virus, including:
· If you are experiencing respiratory illness, avoid travel and contact your health care provider
· Wash hands frequently to lessen the spread of respiratory illness
· Avoid close contact with people who are coughing or appear ill
· Cover coughs and sneezes
· Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth
For more information and updates visit www.onecaribbean.org.
As has been reported, regional health officials have been meeting to determine a strategy to deal with the Swine Flu virus after outbreaks were reported in Mexico, the United States, Canada and Europe.
The CTO has been in contact with the Caribbean Epidemiology Centre (CAREC) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the World Health Organization (WHO), as well as with member countries as we gather information and review the global situation. While the Swine Flu virus has not been reported in the Caribbean, member countries have already begun adopting measures for greater surveillance to prevent the virus from spreading to the region.
The CTO’s Web site, www.onecaribbean.org provides updated information from member countries and links to the PAHO (www.paho.org) site, as well as the World Health Organization (www.who.int/en/) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/).
Travellers planning visits to the Caribbean should also visit the Web sites of individual member nations for any further information on individual policies and screening procedures relating to prevention of the Swine Flu.
The CTO will continue to monitor the global situation closely. In the meantime, travelers should follow simple guidelines to help prevent the spread of the virus, including:
· If you are experiencing respiratory illness, avoid travel and contact your health care provider
· Wash hands frequently to lessen the spread of respiratory illness
· Avoid close contact with people who are coughing or appear ill
· Cover coughs and sneezes
· Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth
For more information and updates visit www.onecaribbean.org.
Friday, April 24, 2009
New anti-crime plan to be unveiled for T&T
With a joint Caricom military presence on the streets of Trinidad and Tobago during the recent Summit of the Americas, the murder rate was temporarily stalled.
Since the conclusion of the Summit however, there have been at least five murders, three of which occurred at a factory in Western Trinidad when three gunmen stormed the factory and opened fire on five men emptying a container.
With the rising crime rate(the figure is so far estimated to be around 165)impacting negatively on travel advisories from the US, UK and Canada, the country's Prime Minister Patrick Manning is preparing to unveil a new anti-crime plan.
In an exclusive interview on CNC3's The Big Story programme, Mr Manning said the new plan has been drafted by Cameron Ross,a retired Canadian Major General and will be unveiled in the coming weeks.
Ross met with Mr Manning and National Security Minister Martin Joseph at the Prime Minister's office today.
Since the conclusion of the Summit however, there have been at least five murders, three of which occurred at a factory in Western Trinidad when three gunmen stormed the factory and opened fire on five men emptying a container.
With the rising crime rate(the figure is so far estimated to be around 165)impacting negatively on travel advisories from the US, UK and Canada, the country's Prime Minister Patrick Manning is preparing to unveil a new anti-crime plan.
In an exclusive interview on CNC3's The Big Story programme, Mr Manning said the new plan has been drafted by Cameron Ross,a retired Canadian Major General and will be unveiled in the coming weeks.
Ross met with Mr Manning and National Security Minister Martin Joseph at the Prime Minister's office today.
Barbados added to JetBlue's route
Aviation Week is reporting that JetBlue plans to add Barbados to its international route pending US Transportation Department approval.
The airline is said to be pushing to have more than 20 per cent of its capacity on Caribbean and Latin American routes by the end of this year, which would more than double the percentage of JetBlue capacity assigned to Caribbean and Latin American markets at the end of 2007.
JetBlue plans to begin service between its New York Kennedy hub and Grantley Adams Airport in Bridgetown, Barbados, on October 1, using its 150-seat Airbus A320 aircraft.
The airline is said to be pushing to have more than 20 per cent of its capacity on Caribbean and Latin American routes by the end of this year, which would more than double the percentage of JetBlue capacity assigned to Caribbean and Latin American markets at the end of 2007.
JetBlue plans to begin service between its New York Kennedy hub and Grantley Adams Airport in Bridgetown, Barbados, on October 1, using its 150-seat Airbus A320 aircraft.
T&T Tourism official calls for tourism to be given priority
As I was wandering through the early morning shows in Trinidad and Tobago, I came across an interview on CNC3 with Kelvin Kenny, the President of the Hotels and Restaurants Association of Trinidad and Tobago.
The subject for discussion was the future of tourism in the twin island int he aftermath of the just concluded 5th Summit of the Americas in Port of Spain.
During the interview, Kenny said he was not aware that T&T had adopted tourism as one of its pillars for economic development. He cited the inadequacy of incentives for local hoteliers to minimise risk and boost returns to ensure the survival of the hotel industry, and maybe expansion.
During the Summit two cruise liners were rented by the government at a cost of TT$120 million to make up for the shortfall in rooms on the island.
Kenny said though rooms were 100 per cent booked, up to February they were only 50 per cent booked and hoteliers were getting nervous.
He also called for a policy to manage the cruise industry. Cruise ships, he said, follow what their customers want and we have to deliver something interesting to them. Trinidad does not attract nearly as many cruise ships as Tobago, which he said, delivers the island expectations of the cruise passengers.
Speaking on T&T's bid to establish itself as the Conference and Convention Centre of the Caribbean, Kenny revealed that Cabinet passed a note to set up a Convention Bureau and someone will be hired to head that within the next month.
he said more investment was needed in that are and suggested that instead of large conferences such as the Summit and the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting in October, smaller events be held such as the Caribbean Hotels and Tourism Investment Conference and the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) conferences held in Trinidad last year.
The subject for discussion was the future of tourism in the twin island int he aftermath of the just concluded 5th Summit of the Americas in Port of Spain.
During the interview, Kenny said he was not aware that T&T had adopted tourism as one of its pillars for economic development. He cited the inadequacy of incentives for local hoteliers to minimise risk and boost returns to ensure the survival of the hotel industry, and maybe expansion.
During the Summit two cruise liners were rented by the government at a cost of TT$120 million to make up for the shortfall in rooms on the island.
Kenny said though rooms were 100 per cent booked, up to February they were only 50 per cent booked and hoteliers were getting nervous.
He also called for a policy to manage the cruise industry. Cruise ships, he said, follow what their customers want and we have to deliver something interesting to them. Trinidad does not attract nearly as many cruise ships as Tobago, which he said, delivers the island expectations of the cruise passengers.
Speaking on T&T's bid to establish itself as the Conference and Convention Centre of the Caribbean, Kenny revealed that Cabinet passed a note to set up a Convention Bureau and someone will be hired to head that within the next month.
he said more investment was needed in that are and suggested that instead of large conferences such as the Summit and the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting in October, smaller events be held such as the Caribbean Hotels and Tourism Investment Conference and the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) conferences held in Trinidad last year.
Lobby against UK Air Passenger Duty intensifies
From November, people flying to the Caribbean from the UK will be required to pay an increase in Air Passenger Duty.
The planned increase is contained in the UK Finance Bill and will require Caribbean bound passengers to pay a minimum of 50 pounds Sterling per passenger for economy travel and double for any higher class of travel.
The fees are expected to increase again in 2010.
The proposal has the Caribbean tourism authorities in an uproar since they are likely to impact negatively on an already ailing industry.
“Pending changes to the UK Air Passenger Duty are expected to result in increased levels of duties applied to air tickets from the UK to all destinations. Of particular concern to us in the Caribbean are the high levels of duty to be applied to tickets to the Caribbean as well as the discrimination against the Caribbean region by illogically allocating it to a higher tax band than major competing destinations," said Enrique De Marchena Kaluche, president of the Caribbean Hotels and Tourism Association (CHTA).
The Advocacy Committee of the CHTA is spearheading a drive to intensify Caribbean lobbying in the United Kingdom to avert the planned increases.
A release from the association says Caribbean hoteliers, local hotel association executives and tourist office officials have begun lobbying Ministers of Tourism, Ministers of Aviation and even Prime Ministers to call for greater public debate; to share their concerns with the Ministers responsible; and to encourage governments to do more to lobby in the United Kingdom with Ministers and parliamentarians the Diaspora, airlines, tour operators and other interested parties.
At the same time, the hotel association executives from across the region are applauding the Dutch government’s recent decision to rescind a similar air tax instituted this year, noting that the impact of the tax was counterproductive.
The planned increase is contained in the UK Finance Bill and will require Caribbean bound passengers to pay a minimum of 50 pounds Sterling per passenger for economy travel and double for any higher class of travel.
The fees are expected to increase again in 2010.
The proposal has the Caribbean tourism authorities in an uproar since they are likely to impact negatively on an already ailing industry.
“Pending changes to the UK Air Passenger Duty are expected to result in increased levels of duties applied to air tickets from the UK to all destinations. Of particular concern to us in the Caribbean are the high levels of duty to be applied to tickets to the Caribbean as well as the discrimination against the Caribbean region by illogically allocating it to a higher tax band than major competing destinations," said Enrique De Marchena Kaluche, president of the Caribbean Hotels and Tourism Association (CHTA).
The Advocacy Committee of the CHTA is spearheading a drive to intensify Caribbean lobbying in the United Kingdom to avert the planned increases.
A release from the association says Caribbean hoteliers, local hotel association executives and tourist office officials have begun lobbying Ministers of Tourism, Ministers of Aviation and even Prime Ministers to call for greater public debate; to share their concerns with the Ministers responsible; and to encourage governments to do more to lobby in the United Kingdom with Ministers and parliamentarians the Diaspora, airlines, tour operators and other interested parties.
At the same time, the hotel association executives from across the region are applauding the Dutch government’s recent decision to rescind a similar air tax instituted this year, noting that the impact of the tax was counterproductive.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Statistics prove tourism decline in the islands
We've been hearing for some time now how badly the Caribbean, the world's most intensive tourism area, has been faring with the global economic downturn.
Now, with statistics released from the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), some territories are showing just how much their industries have been affected.
Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, St Lucia, Belize, Cayman Islands and the US Virgin Islands are among the main players in the English speaking Caribbean showing a huge decline in visitor arrivals during the first quarter of 2009.
Anguilla showed a decline of 18.8 per cent; Antigua, 14.3 per cent; Belize, 2.4 per cent; Cayman Islands, 11.3 per cent; St Lucia, 13.7 per cent: and the US Virgin Islands, 6.1 per cent.
Of the Spanish speaking territories, Puerto Rico showed a drop of 4.7 per cent and the Dominican Republic 4.4 per cent.
Of all the countries that submitted their data, Jamaica and Cuba showed improvements with Jamaica showing a 3.2 increase and Cuba, 4.5 per cent.
The majority of countries suffered major losses from the US and European markets, with St Lucia losing the most from its US market with a 24.2 per cent decline.
Canada was the only market from which there was an increase for most countries with the exception of Antigua and the Cayman Islands.
Now, with statistics released from the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), some territories are showing just how much their industries have been affected.
Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, St Lucia, Belize, Cayman Islands and the US Virgin Islands are among the main players in the English speaking Caribbean showing a huge decline in visitor arrivals during the first quarter of 2009.
Anguilla showed a decline of 18.8 per cent; Antigua, 14.3 per cent; Belize, 2.4 per cent; Cayman Islands, 11.3 per cent; St Lucia, 13.7 per cent: and the US Virgin Islands, 6.1 per cent.
Of the Spanish speaking territories, Puerto Rico showed a drop of 4.7 per cent and the Dominican Republic 4.4 per cent.
Of all the countries that submitted their data, Jamaica and Cuba showed improvements with Jamaica showing a 3.2 increase and Cuba, 4.5 per cent.
The majority of countries suffered major losses from the US and European markets, with St Lucia losing the most from its US market with a 24.2 per cent decline.
Canada was the only market from which there was an increase for most countries with the exception of Antigua and the Cayman Islands.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Gays boycott Jamaica
Gay groups in the United States have boycotted Jamaican beer and rum in support of gay people on the island who they say are being oppressed.
The boycott may impact the island’s tourism industry, as one architect of the movement against Jamaica said the plan is to turn the island into a pariah state.
“Our goal is to turn Jamaica into a pariah state, as long as GLBT people live in a state of terror. This means no more subsidising the anti-gay slaughter by drinking Myers Rum and Red Stripe Beer. It requires skipping that Carnival Cruise to Jamaica -- so your money won't support murder,” wrote Wayne Besson, in the Falls Church News Press
Besson, together with Michael Petrelis and Jim Burroway launched an international boycott against Jamaica.
The group has a website Boycott Jamaica on which it outlines reasons for boycotting the island and its products.
Now, it’s no secret that Jamaica is a very homophobic country. Several articles have been written on the way gays are persecuted, even murdered for their sexuality. There have been songs from dancehall stars celebrating that treatment, even urging it, as well as utterings from politicians against gays.
While Jamaicans are openly hostile to gays, Jamaica is by no means the only Caribbean island that can be considered homophobic. The majority of English-speaking islands have laws against homosexuality or simply don’t approve of the lifestyle. The degree of acceptance varies from island to island.
I’ve blogged on this issue before as it pertains to tourism. My question is, in this time of economic uncertainty, where islands heavily dependant on tourism are suffering, are anti-gay sentiments going to help? Would such a boycott against Jamaica hurt the island in the long run? And are Jamaicans and other Caribbean nationals prepared to sacrifice their morals for much-needed foreign exchange? Debate!
The boycott may impact the island’s tourism industry, as one architect of the movement against Jamaica said the plan is to turn the island into a pariah state.
“Our goal is to turn Jamaica into a pariah state, as long as GLBT people live in a state of terror. This means no more subsidising the anti-gay slaughter by drinking Myers Rum and Red Stripe Beer. It requires skipping that Carnival Cruise to Jamaica -- so your money won't support murder,” wrote Wayne Besson, in the Falls Church News Press
Besson, together with Michael Petrelis and Jim Burroway launched an international boycott against Jamaica.
The group has a website Boycott Jamaica on which it outlines reasons for boycotting the island and its products.
Now, it’s no secret that Jamaica is a very homophobic country. Several articles have been written on the way gays are persecuted, even murdered for their sexuality. There have been songs from dancehall stars celebrating that treatment, even urging it, as well as utterings from politicians against gays.
While Jamaicans are openly hostile to gays, Jamaica is by no means the only Caribbean island that can be considered homophobic. The majority of English-speaking islands have laws against homosexuality or simply don’t approve of the lifestyle. The degree of acceptance varies from island to island.
I’ve blogged on this issue before as it pertains to tourism. My question is, in this time of economic uncertainty, where islands heavily dependant on tourism are suffering, are anti-gay sentiments going to help? Would such a boycott against Jamaica hurt the island in the long run? And are Jamaicans and other Caribbean nationals prepared to sacrifice their morals for much-needed foreign exchange? Debate!
Monday, April 20, 2009
Jamaica to boost image in hijacking aftermath
At a time when the Jamaica Tourist Board is celebrating an increase in tourists from Canada, a supposedly deranged gunman just had to poison the Kool Aid.
If you missed the breaking news on the najor US networks this morning, or didn't log into Facebook or just unplugged from all media, here's a recap.
Stephen Fray, a gunman in his 20s, described as having mental health issues, stormed a CanJet plane at Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay. He held the 174 passengers from Canada and eight crew hostage, while demanding to be taken to Cuba.
After releasing the passengers and two crew members, he held the remaining six crew members until they were freed early Monday morning.
Investigations are now ongoing to determine how the man managed to bypass security to gain access to the plane.
Recently released figures show that visitor arrivals from Canada to Jamaica have been increasing.
Tourist arrivals in February were reportedly at a 23 per cent increase over the same month in 2008.
Canada has been ranked as the second most important tourism market for Jamaica.
A press release from the Jamaica Tourist Board said Canadian visitors from Saskatchewan led the increase with 63.8 per cent growth, followed by a dramatic 89.6 per cent growth in visitors from Newfoundland. There was also an increase in visitors from Western Canada, with 32.7 per cent growth in British Columbia and 29.7 per cent growth in Alberta.
Ontario and Quebec continue to make up the majority of visitors to Jamaica, and each grew steadily with an 18.1 per cent and a 35.9 per cent increase, respectively.
Wayne Cummings, President of the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) was reported on one website as saying that he is concerned about the impact the incident might have on the tourism sector.
He said while the situation is a rare occurrence in Jamaica, it’s likely to affect how the country is viewed especially by the Canadian market.
Cummings said tourism officials are now taking remedial steps in an attempt to assure potential visitors that the hijacking was an isolated event.
Tourism minister Edmund Bartlett confirmed this. In a report on Radio Jamaicahe said the media activity coming from Canada and the US are quite buoyant. "The fact is that we now have to hit the market."
If you missed the breaking news on the najor US networks this morning, or didn't log into Facebook or just unplugged from all media, here's a recap.
Stephen Fray, a gunman in his 20s, described as having mental health issues, stormed a CanJet plane at Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay. He held the 174 passengers from Canada and eight crew hostage, while demanding to be taken to Cuba.
After releasing the passengers and two crew members, he held the remaining six crew members until they were freed early Monday morning.
Investigations are now ongoing to determine how the man managed to bypass security to gain access to the plane.
Recently released figures show that visitor arrivals from Canada to Jamaica have been increasing.
Tourist arrivals in February were reportedly at a 23 per cent increase over the same month in 2008.
Canada has been ranked as the second most important tourism market for Jamaica.
A press release from the Jamaica Tourist Board said Canadian visitors from Saskatchewan led the increase with 63.8 per cent growth, followed by a dramatic 89.6 per cent growth in visitors from Newfoundland. There was also an increase in visitors from Western Canada, with 32.7 per cent growth in British Columbia and 29.7 per cent growth in Alberta.
Ontario and Quebec continue to make up the majority of visitors to Jamaica, and each grew steadily with an 18.1 per cent and a 35.9 per cent increase, respectively.
Wayne Cummings, President of the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) was reported on one website as saying that he is concerned about the impact the incident might have on the tourism sector.
He said while the situation is a rare occurrence in Jamaica, it’s likely to affect how the country is viewed especially by the Canadian market.
Cummings said tourism officials are now taking remedial steps in an attempt to assure potential visitors that the hijacking was an isolated event.
Tourism minister Edmund Bartlett confirmed this. In a report on Radio Jamaicahe said the media activity coming from Canada and the US are quite buoyant. "The fact is that we now have to hit the market."
Caribbean Week venues announced
NEW YORK, New York, April 20, 2009 – The Caribbean Tourism Development Company, (www.caribbeantravel.com) has announced the confirmed venues for Caribbean Week in New York, June 8 – 12, 2009. The Celebrity Chefs program will begin on June 8 with Caribbean chefs participating in cooking demonstrations throughout the city, June 8 – 12. The Business Meetings and Consumer events of Caribbean Week will follow on June 11 and 12, immediately after the Second Annual Caribbean Tourism Summit (ACTS) being held in Washington, D.C., June 8-10, 2009. The business-focused summit is attended by Ministers and Directors of Tourism and senior private sector executives. It includes meetings on Capitol Hill as well as internal strategic planning meetings between CTO and CHTA officials.
The majority of Caribbean Week’s special sessions and activities will be held at the New Yorker Hotel at 481 Eighth Avenue at 34th Street. Other evening events and receptions will take place at The Plaza Hotel and Manhattan Center. A complete listing of venue information for Caribbean Week in New York is below:
Monday – Friday, June 8-12
* Celebrity Chef Program at various venues in New York City: Chefs will prepare distinctive Caribbean dishes at prestigious events held all over the city to showcase a taste of the Region to consumers, travel industry professionals and media.
Thursday, June 11
* Caribbean Media Awards Luncheon at New Yorker Hotel, Crystal Ballroom – 12:15 – 1:45 p.m.: This luncheon is attended by Ministers and Commissioners of Tourism and Board of Directors and honors US- and Caribbean-based consumer and trade media.
* Workshop for Travel Agents at New Yorker Hotel, Herald Square Ballroom – 4:00 - 6:30 p.m.: The workshop will offer niche market presentations on “Weddings and Honeymoons” to a select group of travel agents invited by CTO, its Chapters and member countries.
* Caribbean Media Marketplace at New Yorker Hotel, Grand Ballroom – 4:00 – 5:30 p.m.: The media are invited to have one-on-one interactions with tourism officials, hotels, tour operators and airline representatives to gain valuable information about the Caribbean region.
* Caribbean Treats: Food, Rum & Rhythm at Manhattan Center – 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.: A celebration of the Caribbean region’s award-winning rums, this ticketed event will include a sampling of premium rums and rum cocktails, celebrity chef demonstrations and tastings, musical performances and much more.
Friday, June 12
* Caribbean Marketing Conference at New Yorker Hotel, Gramercy Room – 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.: Hosted by the CTO Allied members in conjunction with ATME, this event is a regular highlight of Caribbean Week. This conference will be attended by Ministers, Commissioners and Directors of Tourism as well as senior tourism industry representatives from the private sector.
* Allied Awards Luncheon at New Yorker Hotel, Bank Room – 12:30 – 2:30 p.m.: This luncheon follows the Caribbean Marketing Conference and will be attended by Ministers, Commissioners and Directors of Tourism as well as senior tourism industry representatives from the private sector.
* 36th Annual Governments of the Caribbean State Ball and Awards Presentations at Plaza Hotel, Grand Ballroom – 7:00 p.m. – Midnight: As the official closing event to Caribbean Week in New York, this elegant black-tie affair marks its 36th anniversary. Visiting celebrity chefs will prepare the elaborate dinner and highlights include the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award, Special Recognition Award and Excellence Award bestowed upon individuals in honor of their contributions to the Region.
The majority of Caribbean Week’s special sessions and activities will be held at the New Yorker Hotel at 481 Eighth Avenue at 34th Street. Other evening events and receptions will take place at The Plaza Hotel and Manhattan Center. A complete listing of venue information for Caribbean Week in New York is below:
Monday – Friday, June 8-12
* Celebrity Chef Program at various venues in New York City: Chefs will prepare distinctive Caribbean dishes at prestigious events held all over the city to showcase a taste of the Region to consumers, travel industry professionals and media.
Thursday, June 11
* Caribbean Media Awards Luncheon at New Yorker Hotel, Crystal Ballroom – 12:15 – 1:45 p.m.: This luncheon is attended by Ministers and Commissioners of Tourism and Board of Directors and honors US- and Caribbean-based consumer and trade media.
* Workshop for Travel Agents at New Yorker Hotel, Herald Square Ballroom – 4:00 - 6:30 p.m.: The workshop will offer niche market presentations on “Weddings and Honeymoons” to a select group of travel agents invited by CTO, its Chapters and member countries.
* Caribbean Media Marketplace at New Yorker Hotel, Grand Ballroom – 4:00 – 5:30 p.m.: The media are invited to have one-on-one interactions with tourism officials, hotels, tour operators and airline representatives to gain valuable information about the Caribbean region.
* Caribbean Treats: Food, Rum & Rhythm at Manhattan Center – 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.: A celebration of the Caribbean region’s award-winning rums, this ticketed event will include a sampling of premium rums and rum cocktails, celebrity chef demonstrations and tastings, musical performances and much more.
Friday, June 12
* Caribbean Marketing Conference at New Yorker Hotel, Gramercy Room – 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.: Hosted by the CTO Allied members in conjunction with ATME, this event is a regular highlight of Caribbean Week. This conference will be attended by Ministers, Commissioners and Directors of Tourism as well as senior tourism industry representatives from the private sector.
* Allied Awards Luncheon at New Yorker Hotel, Bank Room – 12:30 – 2:30 p.m.: This luncheon follows the Caribbean Marketing Conference and will be attended by Ministers, Commissioners and Directors of Tourism as well as senior tourism industry representatives from the private sector.
* 36th Annual Governments of the Caribbean State Ball and Awards Presentations at Plaza Hotel, Grand Ballroom – 7:00 p.m. – Midnight: As the official closing event to Caribbean Week in New York, this elegant black-tie affair marks its 36th anniversary. Visiting celebrity chefs will prepare the elaborate dinner and highlights include the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award, Special Recognition Award and Excellence Award bestowed upon individuals in honor of their contributions to the Region.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Is Cuba tourism a threat to the region?
I recently posted an entry about President Obama's lifting of travel restrictions for Americans with family ties in Cuba. In that piece I wondered aloud about the possible impact of an increase in travelers to Cuba on the rest of the region. Here is a column from Sir Ronald Sanders on why Caribbean countries can't base their tourism on the embargo on Cuba.
The Chain Hotels Forum is reconstituted
CORAL GABLES, FL (April 15, 2009) – The Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA) is reconstituting the previously successful Chain Hotels Forum, originally created 15 years ago, but dormant over the past few years following a long period of successful growth in the region. The Forum will be a half-day meeting and networking session held April 23 at the Ritz-Carlton in Coral Gables beginning with a welcome luncheon at 12:30 p.m.
Topics of discussion will include a region wide advocacy program to create awareness among Caribbean citizens and the governments about the importance of tourism to the local economies of the region.
Other topics of discussion will focus on marketing in the down economy, human resource issues, the environment and the dwindling airline seat capacity in the region.
“We are seeking closer integration between the chain hotels with properties in the Caribbean and CHTA for the benefit of all parties and will revisit common goals to protect the interests of hospitality and tourism companies in the region,” said Enrique de Marchena Kaluche, president of CHTA.
Companies expected to attend include: Accor Hotels, Almond Resorts, Altabella Hotels, AMHSA Resorts, Antilles Resorts, Bahia Principe Resorts, Best Western, Barcelo Hotels, Carlson Hotels, Choice Hotels International, Divi Resorts, Dreams Resorts, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, Fiesta Hotels, Four Seasons, Hilton Caribbean, Hyatt Resorts, Iberostar Hotels, InterContinental Hotels, Kerzner International, Leader Hotels, LXR Luxury Resorts, Marriott & Renaissance Resorts, Occidental Hotels, Palace Resorts, Rex Resorts, Riu Hotels, Ritz-Carlton, RockResorts, Rosewood Hotels, Secrets Resorts, Sol Melia Hotels, Sandals Resorts, Starwood, SuperClubs, Viva Resorts and Wyndham Hotels.
For more information contact Tanya Lazarus at CHTA in Coral Gables, FL at 305-443-3040 or by e-mail at Tanya@CaribbeanHotelandTourism.com.
Topics of discussion will include a region wide advocacy program to create awareness among Caribbean citizens and the governments about the importance of tourism to the local economies of the region.
Other topics of discussion will focus on marketing in the down economy, human resource issues, the environment and the dwindling airline seat capacity in the region.
“We are seeking closer integration between the chain hotels with properties in the Caribbean and CHTA for the benefit of all parties and will revisit common goals to protect the interests of hospitality and tourism companies in the region,” said Enrique de Marchena Kaluche, president of CHTA.
Companies expected to attend include: Accor Hotels, Almond Resorts, Altabella Hotels, AMHSA Resorts, Antilles Resorts, Bahia Principe Resorts, Best Western, Barcelo Hotels, Carlson Hotels, Choice Hotels International, Divi Resorts, Dreams Resorts, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, Fiesta Hotels, Four Seasons, Hilton Caribbean, Hyatt Resorts, Iberostar Hotels, InterContinental Hotels, Kerzner International, Leader Hotels, LXR Luxury Resorts, Marriott & Renaissance Resorts, Occidental Hotels, Palace Resorts, Rex Resorts, Riu Hotels, Ritz-Carlton, RockResorts, Rosewood Hotels, Secrets Resorts, Sol Melia Hotels, Sandals Resorts, Starwood, SuperClubs, Viva Resorts and Wyndham Hotels.
For more information contact Tanya Lazarus at CHTA in Coral Gables, FL at 305-443-3040 or by e-mail at Tanya@CaribbeanHotelandTourism.com.
Grenadian hotelier awarded Lifetime Achievement at CHTIC
Photo caption (l-r): CHTA Director General and CEO Alec Sanguinetti, Sir Royston Hopkin, Edna Bissell (Bill Bissell's widow) and CHTA President Enrique de Marchena Kaluche at the presentation of the Bill Bissell Lifetime Achievement Award at CHTIC in Bermuda
Sir Royston O. Hopkin, KCMG, owner and chairman of Spice Island Beach Resort in Grenada, received the Bill Bissell Lifetime Achievement Award at this year’s Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Investment Conference (CHTIC) which took place from April 14 - 16 at the Fairmont Southampton in Bermuda.
Sir Royston is the owner and chairman of the award-winning Spice Island Beach Resort. He has had an extensive and distinguished career in the hospitality and tourism industry spanning 44 years.
His award placed him on an esteemed list of past honourees such as philanthropists and industry veterans including, Peter Dolara, American Airlines; Sol Kerzner, Kerzner Resorts International; Gordon “Butch” Stewart, Sandals Resorts; Chris Blackwell, Island Outpost; and the late Bill Bissell, OBM International, for whom the award was renamed after he was recognized posthumously at last year’s CHTIC.
An honorary director of the Caribbean Hotels and Tourism Association (CHTA) and chairman of the Caribbean Alliance for Sustainable Tourism (CAST), Sir Royston serves as a member of the Airlift Committee in Grenada and is an honorary director of the Grenada Hotel Association.
He became the first and only Caribbean hotelier to be knighted by the Queen Elizabeth 11 when he was knighted in 2004.
Sir Royston has served on the board of CHTA since 1970, where he held numerous positions including director, vice president, president and chairman. During his tenure with CHTA, he founded the Small Hotels Committee and launched the Small Hotels Conference, which today are still one of the most important sub-committees and events of the association. Sir Royston has also served on the board of the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) with government ministers from across the region.
Sir Royston is the recipient of several prestigious awards including the coveted CHTA “Hotelier of the Year” honour (in 1991), Grenada’s Silver Anniversary Independence Awards for 25 years of dedicated service, and several other awards from the Grenada Hotel Association and CHTA. CTO has also honored Sir Royston for 25 years of loyalty and service to the region.
Sir Royston also serves as a member of the Airlift Committee in Grenada and is an honorary director of the Grenada Hotel Association. A dedicated philanthropist, Sir Royston founded the Royston Hopkin Scholarship Fund in 1992. Each year since its inception, the foundation has awarded a minimum of five full tuition and book scholarships, each for a period of seven years or to the completion of tertiary level education. To date, the fund has contributed to the education of over 66 students, many of whom have gone on to successful careers in the private and public sectors.
He holds many other memberships including the Board of Trustees of the Queen Elizabeth Home and is a director on the boards of numerous private sector companies.
The CHTA Lifetime Achievement Award was named for Bill Bissell, the driving force behind development of OBM International, and a mentor to many in the Caribbean hospitality industry. In addition to his leadership role in the architecture, design and development community, Bissell contributed much of his time to industry organizations such as CHTA, CAST, Urban Land Institute, and many others.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Trinidad is Summit ready
Come tomorrow, Trinidad and Tobago will be in the spotlight as 34 leaders from the Americas descend on the capital, Port of Spain, for the 5th Summit of the Americas.
Of course, the star of the weekend event will be US President Barack Obama, who will be meeting the majority of these leaders for the first time. All eyes will be on his first meeting with Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez, who has been leading the call for Cuba to be a main point of discussion.
Trinidad and Tobago is the smallest country and the first Caribbean nation to host this event. About 4000 people are expected to attend the Summit, including over 700 foreign media personnel.
The Summit is the first of two major conferences which Trinidad and Tobago will host in 2009. The other is the Commonwealth Heads of Government conference in October.
A successful hosting of these events will seal the country's reputation as a meetings and conference hub, which has been its latest tourism thrust, although there aren't enough rooms to accommodate the influx of visitors for the Summit. Two cruise ships have been leased to accommodate some delegates and media personnel.
Of course, the star of the weekend event will be US President Barack Obama, who will be meeting the majority of these leaders for the first time. All eyes will be on his first meeting with Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez, who has been leading the call for Cuba to be a main point of discussion.
Trinidad and Tobago is the smallest country and the first Caribbean nation to host this event. About 4000 people are expected to attend the Summit, including over 700 foreign media personnel.
The Summit is the first of two major conferences which Trinidad and Tobago will host in 2009. The other is the Commonwealth Heads of Government conference in October.
A successful hosting of these events will seal the country's reputation as a meetings and conference hub, which has been its latest tourism thrust, although there aren't enough rooms to accommodate the influx of visitors for the Summit. Two cruise ships have been leased to accommodate some delegates and media personnel.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
New program for Caribbean Week
NEW YORK, New York, April 14, 2009 – The Caribbean Tourism Development Company (www.caribbeantravel.com) has developed a brand new program for this year’s highly anticipated Caribbean Week in New York (www.onecaribbean.org), June 8-12, 2009. The event, entitled the Caribbean Meeting and Incentive Travel Showcase, will be hosted in association with Black Meetings and Tourism magazine to target the meeting, incentive, conference and exposition markets by sharing the unique experiences available for these specialized groups within the Region. The showcase will take place on Friday, June 12 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the New Yorker Hotel.
“The Caribbean Meeting and Incentive Travel Showcase is an important new addition to the Caribbean Week program as this particular niche continues to travel for their meetings despite the economy,” said Hugh Riley, interim secretary general of the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) and co-chief executive officer for the Caribbean Tourism Development Company (CTDC). “Their travel decisions are made based on the opportunity to experience an extraordinarily special and memorable trip that also offers value. The Caribbean is well poised to serve this market because of its proximity, the quality and diversity of product and its affordability.”
Showcase participants will have the opportunity to personally interact with pre-qualified association planners to gather feedback in terms of their interests and even receive RFPs. The session is expected to attract planners from associations such as Meeting Planners International, Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International, Society of Incentive Travel Executives, National Coalition of Black Meeting Planners, Governments, hoteliers, convention centers and more.
Organized by CTDC, Caribbean Week in New York brings together the most influential policy makers, marketing professionals and tourism industry officials to interact and discuss both tourism and investment opportunities in the region. It also serves to provide a taste of the Caribbean to inspire travel and showcase the Region’s diversity to more than 10,000 attendees who participate in a number of targeted events hosted throughout the week including a Caribbean
Fair, Media Marketplace, Caribbean Marketing Conference and Awards Luncheon, Caribbean Treats: Food, Rum & Rhythm, Allied Awards Luncheon and the Annual Governments of the Caribbean State Ball and Awards Presentation.
“The Caribbean Meeting and Incentive Travel Showcase is an important new addition to the Caribbean Week program as this particular niche continues to travel for their meetings despite the economy,” said Hugh Riley, interim secretary general of the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) and co-chief executive officer for the Caribbean Tourism Development Company (CTDC). “Their travel decisions are made based on the opportunity to experience an extraordinarily special and memorable trip that also offers value. The Caribbean is well poised to serve this market because of its proximity, the quality and diversity of product and its affordability.”
Showcase participants will have the opportunity to personally interact with pre-qualified association planners to gather feedback in terms of their interests and even receive RFPs. The session is expected to attract planners from associations such as Meeting Planners International, Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International, Society of Incentive Travel Executives, National Coalition of Black Meeting Planners, Governments, hoteliers, convention centers and more.
Organized by CTDC, Caribbean Week in New York brings together the most influential policy makers, marketing professionals and tourism industry officials to interact and discuss both tourism and investment opportunities in the region. It also serves to provide a taste of the Caribbean to inspire travel and showcase the Region’s diversity to more than 10,000 attendees who participate in a number of targeted events hosted throughout the week including a Caribbean
Fair, Media Marketplace, Caribbean Marketing Conference and Awards Luncheon, Caribbean Treats: Food, Rum & Rhythm, Allied Awards Luncheon and the Annual Governments of the Caribbean State Ball and Awards Presentation.
Travel restrictions to Cuba lifted
It's the dawn of a new era in US/Cuba relations, thanks to American President Barack Obama.
Obama yesterday eased travel restrictions for Cuban Americans who can now visit Cuba as often as they want and spend as much as they like.
Under the Bush administration, Americans with immediate family members on the island could visit once every three years and send up to US$100 a month to their families.
In the wake of Obama's announcement, Charter airlines who used to transport authorised visitors to Cuba were said to be deluged with calls and were considering using bigger planes for the anticipated increase in travellers to the island.
With Cuban Americans now able to travel freely, Cuba's tourism industry can expect a huge boost.
One of Cuba's biggest sources of cash in recent years has been foreign tourism, which brought in 2.3 million visitors and US$2.5 billion (NZ$4.4 billion) in revenues in 2008. The island suffered three devastating hurricanes last year which affected the industry.
Tourism Minister Manuel Marrero announced recently that for the first two months in 2009 the tourism industry expanded by 5.2 per cent compared with the same period last year.
Government statistics show that the island had about 55,000 hotel rooms in 2007, the last year for which numbers are available. At least 10,000 more are under construction, and others are on the drawing boards.
The continued growth of Cuba's tourism industry is a bit of an anomaly in the region. A report by the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) comparing the industry's performance in 2007 and 2008, said 11 out of its 26 member countries experienced a decline or stagnation in the number of foreign visitors to their shores.
With the lifting of this travel ban to Cuba, the rest of the region could expect to lose more visitors to the island.
Obama yesterday eased travel restrictions for Cuban Americans who can now visit Cuba as often as they want and spend as much as they like.
Under the Bush administration, Americans with immediate family members on the island could visit once every three years and send up to US$100 a month to their families.
In the wake of Obama's announcement, Charter airlines who used to transport authorised visitors to Cuba were said to be deluged with calls and were considering using bigger planes for the anticipated increase in travellers to the island.
With Cuban Americans now able to travel freely, Cuba's tourism industry can expect a huge boost.
One of Cuba's biggest sources of cash in recent years has been foreign tourism, which brought in 2.3 million visitors and US$2.5 billion (NZ$4.4 billion) in revenues in 2008. The island suffered three devastating hurricanes last year which affected the industry.
Tourism Minister Manuel Marrero announced recently that for the first two months in 2009 the tourism industry expanded by 5.2 per cent compared with the same period last year.
Government statistics show that the island had about 55,000 hotel rooms in 2007, the last year for which numbers are available. At least 10,000 more are under construction, and others are on the drawing boards.
The continued growth of Cuba's tourism industry is a bit of an anomaly in the region. A report by the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) comparing the industry's performance in 2007 and 2008, said 11 out of its 26 member countries experienced a decline or stagnation in the number of foreign visitors to their shores.
With the lifting of this travel ban to Cuba, the rest of the region could expect to lose more visitors to the island.
Friday, April 10, 2009
Caribbean Airlines extends service to South America
Caribbean Airlines said today that it will be increasing its service to South America with the introduction of three additional non-stop flights to Caracas, Venezuela from April 21. CAL says there will now be ten weekly return flights to the Venezuelan capital
The additional flights will operate on Tuesday, Fridays and Sundays on CAL's Dash-8 aircraft.
CAL currently services three South American destinations: Guyana, Suriname and Venezuela.
For more information on CAL's services vist: Caribbean Airlines website
The additional flights will operate on Tuesday, Fridays and Sundays on CAL's Dash-8 aircraft.
CAL currently services three South American destinations: Guyana, Suriname and Venezuela.
For more information on CAL's services vist: Caribbean Airlines website
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Jamaica gets ready for Tourism Oscars
Trophies and cash prizes will be up for grabs when Jamaica's first Tourism Service Excellence Awards comes off on April 24.
Dubbed the Tourism Oscars, the inaugural event will take place at the Rose Hall of the Ritz-Carlton Golf & Spa Resort in Montego Bay.
Thirteen individuals and nine organisations representing the island's resort areas of Kingston, Port Antonio, Ocho Rios, Montego Bay, Negril and the South Coast, will vie for the top service award for each region.
Each resort winner will be presented with the Resort Area Champion Trophy plus J$50,000. Resort area champions will participate in a four-day group trip to Nassau, Bahamas. Accommodations will be provided through the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism at the Atlantic Resort and flights will be provided by Air Jamaica.
The national champion will walk away with an additional cash prize of J$100,000 and an all expenses paid week-long trip for two to the islands of St. Maarten, Antigua, and Barbados, staying at top resorts in the islands, courtesy of the Ministry of Tourism in each island. The winner will fly first class, courtesy of Caribbean Airlines.
Launched in July 2008, the Tourism Service Excellence Programme seeks to recognise outstanding service delivery in the hospitality sector by both individuals and organisations. Its aim is to reward the best in service and to motivate those individuals and organisations who consistently surpass standards and guest expectations. The awards recognise those organisations and individuals who have demonstrated exemplary service during 2008.
Dubbed the Tourism Oscars, the inaugural event will take place at the Rose Hall of the Ritz-Carlton Golf & Spa Resort in Montego Bay.
Thirteen individuals and nine organisations representing the island's resort areas of Kingston, Port Antonio, Ocho Rios, Montego Bay, Negril and the South Coast, will vie for the top service award for each region.
Each resort winner will be presented with the Resort Area Champion Trophy plus J$50,000. Resort area champions will participate in a four-day group trip to Nassau, Bahamas. Accommodations will be provided through the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism at the Atlantic Resort and flights will be provided by Air Jamaica.
The national champion will walk away with an additional cash prize of J$100,000 and an all expenses paid week-long trip for two to the islands of St. Maarten, Antigua, and Barbados, staying at top resorts in the islands, courtesy of the Ministry of Tourism in each island. The winner will fly first class, courtesy of Caribbean Airlines.
Launched in July 2008, the Tourism Service Excellence Programme seeks to recognise outstanding service delivery in the hospitality sector by both individuals and organisations. Its aim is to reward the best in service and to motivate those individuals and organisations who consistently surpass standards and guest expectations. The awards recognise those organisations and individuals who have demonstrated exemplary service during 2008.
Trinidad zoo for facelift
Trinidad's Emperor Valley Zoo is getting a facelift, and may I add, a long overdue one.
Tourism minister Joseph Ross last week turned the sod for construction work scheduled to last two years. The cost for the project is TT$58 million or about US$10 million.
Asked about the rationale in spending that kind of money when the economy is beginning to feel the effect of of global recession Ross said, "If we are to ask why engage in this major expenditure now in the face of the global financial meltdown — it is a moot point indeed. Not only is this project aligned with Government’s 2020 Vision towards achieving a first world status, but if one is to accurately judge the civility and development of a society, it is instructive that we look at how animals are cared for and treated.”
The Zoological Society of Trinidad and Tobago (ZSTT)runs the zoo which, at the time of its opening in 1952, covered 15 acres and consisted of ten cages and 127 animals. There might be more animals and cages today but the facility has been criticised for its ageing animals particularly the big cats on display. The zoo focuses on neotropical species with some exotic ones thrown in for public satisfaction.
It is expected that the improvements will make the facility even more attractive to locals and visitors alike.
Tourism minister Joseph Ross last week turned the sod for construction work scheduled to last two years. The cost for the project is TT$58 million or about US$10 million.
Asked about the rationale in spending that kind of money when the economy is beginning to feel the effect of of global recession Ross said, "If we are to ask why engage in this major expenditure now in the face of the global financial meltdown — it is a moot point indeed. Not only is this project aligned with Government’s 2020 Vision towards achieving a first world status, but if one is to accurately judge the civility and development of a society, it is instructive that we look at how animals are cared for and treated.”
The Zoological Society of Trinidad and Tobago (ZSTT)runs the zoo which, at the time of its opening in 1952, covered 15 acres and consisted of ten cages and 127 animals. There might be more animals and cages today but the facility has been criticised for its ageing animals particularly the big cats on display. The zoo focuses on neotropical species with some exotic ones thrown in for public satisfaction.
It is expected that the improvements will make the facility even more attractive to locals and visitors alike.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Former Antiguan tourism director to market Caribbean in Europe
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (April 6, 2009) – The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) has appointed Carol Hay as its Director of Marketing in the UK/ Europe.
In her new position, Ms. Hay will lead the CTO’s enhanced thrust in Europe, including designing, implementing and managing the organization’s strategic marketing and public relations programmes for all European markets. She will work in coordination with CTO’s head office in Barbados and the European Chapters. Ms. Hay will be based in CTO’s London office.
Ms Hay, who is of Jamaican heritage, comes to the CTO with over 20 years experience in the tourism, financial services and trade & investment sectors. She has worked extensively throughout Europe and the Caribbean.
“We are very pleased to have secured Ms. Hay’s expertise after a lengthy and exhaustive search in which we drew interest from many individuals,” said Hugh Riley, CTO’s Acting Secretary General. “I believe that her intimate knowledge of both the Caribbean and the European markets will be a major advantage as the organisation continues to strengthen its operations in Europe.”
Just prior to joining the CTO, Ms. Hay was Antigua and Barbuda’s Director of Tourism for the UK and Europe, a position she held since 2007. Between 2005 and 2007 she was the country’s Director of Marketing for the UK/Europe.
She says her experience working with Antigua and Barbuda will come in handy in her new role for the wider Caribbean.
“It will help a great deal because I have a clearer understanding of the European market, our stakeholders and what’s required, and I have had the advantage of working closely with tourist boards from other parts of the world so I have a clear vision as to what the competition will be like and will therefore be able to bring some ideas to the table and work with our partners as to how we can reposition the Caribbean throughout Europe,” Ms. Hay said.
“I look forward to working with all the members of the CTO and I am really looking forward to showcasing the Caribbean and helping us to maintain a position of strength and dominance throughout Europe,” she added.
Ms Hay replaces Julia Hendry, a 30 year veteran of the travel industry, who retired after more than six years as the regional tourism development and marketing agency’s Director of Marketing in Europe.
“I have enjoyed my career enormously, had some amazing jobs, been to some amazing places and worked with some amazing people, not least of all, everyone at CTO - members, chapters, colleagues and industry partners. Here in the UK, continental Europe and of course the Caribbean I have been grateful for the enormous amount of support received from colleagues in all sectors of the industry, but especially from the CTO family,” Ms. Hendry said upon her departure on 3 April. “It is time to step down and spend a little more time with family and friends and to pursue personal and leisure interests.”
In her new position, Ms. Hay will lead the CTO’s enhanced thrust in Europe, including designing, implementing and managing the organization’s strategic marketing and public relations programmes for all European markets. She will work in coordination with CTO’s head office in Barbados and the European Chapters. Ms. Hay will be based in CTO’s London office.
Ms Hay, who is of Jamaican heritage, comes to the CTO with over 20 years experience in the tourism, financial services and trade & investment sectors. She has worked extensively throughout Europe and the Caribbean.
“We are very pleased to have secured Ms. Hay’s expertise after a lengthy and exhaustive search in which we drew interest from many individuals,” said Hugh Riley, CTO’s Acting Secretary General. “I believe that her intimate knowledge of both the Caribbean and the European markets will be a major advantage as the organisation continues to strengthen its operations in Europe.”
Just prior to joining the CTO, Ms. Hay was Antigua and Barbuda’s Director of Tourism for the UK and Europe, a position she held since 2007. Between 2005 and 2007 she was the country’s Director of Marketing for the UK/Europe.
She says her experience working with Antigua and Barbuda will come in handy in her new role for the wider Caribbean.
“It will help a great deal because I have a clearer understanding of the European market, our stakeholders and what’s required, and I have had the advantage of working closely with tourist boards from other parts of the world so I have a clear vision as to what the competition will be like and will therefore be able to bring some ideas to the table and work with our partners as to how we can reposition the Caribbean throughout Europe,” Ms. Hay said.
“I look forward to working with all the members of the CTO and I am really looking forward to showcasing the Caribbean and helping us to maintain a position of strength and dominance throughout Europe,” she added.
Ms Hay replaces Julia Hendry, a 30 year veteran of the travel industry, who retired after more than six years as the regional tourism development and marketing agency’s Director of Marketing in Europe.
“I have enjoyed my career enormously, had some amazing jobs, been to some amazing places and worked with some amazing people, not least of all, everyone at CTO - members, chapters, colleagues and industry partners. Here in the UK, continental Europe and of course the Caribbean I have been grateful for the enormous amount of support received from colleagues in all sectors of the industry, but especially from the CTO family,” Ms. Hendry said upon her departure on 3 April. “It is time to step down and spend a little more time with family and friends and to pursue personal and leisure interests.”
Countdown to CHTIC
The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Investment Conference (CHTIC) is scheduled to come off next week from April 14 to 16 in Bermuda.
Last year over 500 people attended the conference in Trinidad, a record breaking number by all reports, but with the global financial downturn, and the Summit of the Americas in Trinidad which starts on April 17, fewer delegates are expected.
But with the regional tourism industry taking serious blows with the recession in traditional markets in the US and Europe, this conference is considered the most important.
Topics for discussion will include "The Outlook For The Caribbean: Where Are Things Headed?" James Burba, President, Burba Hotel Network will moderate that session and the panel will feature experts including Avery Shenfield, Managing Director and Senior Economist, CIBC World Markets Inc.; Simon Townend, Partner, KPMG Corporate Finance; David F. Larone, Director, PKF Consulting; and Duane T. Vinson, Vice President, Smith Travel Research.
Topics for some breakout sessions include: Tourism Demand for the Caribbean - Which Way is it Headed? and Global Hotel Brands and the Outlook for the Caribbean.
For more information on the schedule of events for the conference click here
Last year over 500 people attended the conference in Trinidad, a record breaking number by all reports, but with the global financial downturn, and the Summit of the Americas in Trinidad which starts on April 17, fewer delegates are expected.
But with the regional tourism industry taking serious blows with the recession in traditional markets in the US and Europe, this conference is considered the most important.
Topics for discussion will include "The Outlook For The Caribbean: Where Are Things Headed?" James Burba, President, Burba Hotel Network will moderate that session and the panel will feature experts including Avery Shenfield, Managing Director and Senior Economist, CIBC World Markets Inc.; Simon Townend, Partner, KPMG Corporate Finance; David F. Larone, Director, PKF Consulting; and Duane T. Vinson, Vice President, Smith Travel Research.
Topics for some breakout sessions include: Tourism Demand for the Caribbean - Which Way is it Headed? and Global Hotel Brands and the Outlook for the Caribbean.
For more information on the schedule of events for the conference click here
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Average hurricane season predicted
After the turbulent hurricane season that battered some of the Caribbean islands last year, 2009 promises to be much calmer. At least that's the prediction from hurricane forecasters at Colorado State University.
The team predicts that there will be six hurricanes in the Atlantic basin this year, with 12 named tropical storms. The hurricane season begins on June 1 and ends on November 30.
Meteorologists Phil Klotzbach and William Gray predict that of the six hurricanes, two will become major hurricanes with winds in excess of 100 miles an hour.
They base their prediction of a calmer season on the belief that La Niña, an atmospheric condition that fosters storm formation, will weaken substantially or fade. They said it is possible that El Niño, which hampers hurricane development, might emerge.
Last year was considered one of the most active hurricane seasons in history. There were 16 named storms including eight hurricanes, three of which were of Category 3 strength or above.
Cuba, Haiti, the Cayman Islands, Turks and Caicos and Jamaica were the hardest hit Caribbean islands in 2008.
The team predicts that there will be six hurricanes in the Atlantic basin this year, with 12 named tropical storms. The hurricane season begins on June 1 and ends on November 30.
Meteorologists Phil Klotzbach and William Gray predict that of the six hurricanes, two will become major hurricanes with winds in excess of 100 miles an hour.
They base their prediction of a calmer season on the belief that La Niña, an atmospheric condition that fosters storm formation, will weaken substantially or fade. They said it is possible that El Niño, which hampers hurricane development, might emerge.
Last year was considered one of the most active hurricane seasons in history. There were 16 named storms including eight hurricanes, three of which were of Category 3 strength or above.
Cuba, Haiti, the Cayman Islands, Turks and Caicos and Jamaica were the hardest hit Caribbean islands in 2008.
Monday, April 6, 2009
US entry requirements tighten
From June 1, Americans will need to show a valid United States passport book, passport card or other special travel documents approved by the Department of Homeland Security when entering the country by land or sea from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda.
Caribbean destinations include Anguilla, Aruba, Bahamas, Barbuda, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Jamaica, Montserrat, Netherlands Antilles, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, and Turks and Caicos.
Caribbean destinations include Anguilla, Aruba, Bahamas, Barbuda, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Jamaica, Montserrat, Netherlands Antilles, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, and Turks and Caicos.
Jamaica, the Bahamas chosen for climate study
Jamaica and the Bahamas has been selected for a pilot project studying the effects of climate change on the Caribbean.
The study is part of a project called CARIBSAVE, which is conducted by the University of Oxford and the Caribbean Centre for Climate Change. The project aims to raise US$35 million over the next three to five years to study the effects of climate change and its effect of tourism in the region.
The UK Department for International Development recently contributed 240,000 pounds to the project, and part of that seed funding will be used for the six-month study in Ochos Rios, Jamaica, and Eleuthera, Bahamas.
As reported in The Eleutheran News, the study will provide a blueprint for climate and adaptation modelling, as well as vulnerability screening, that can be used across other tourist destinations in the Caribbean.
Destinational data collected between 1961-2008 will be assessed to calculate the islands' likely climate until 2100. Likely levels of rainfall, windspeed, rising sea temperatures and levels as well as the frequency of hurricanes will be predicted.
The CARIBSAVE project is intended to inform policy planning not just in the tourism sector but also in health, energy, agriculture and infrastructure to name a few.
The study is part of a project called CARIBSAVE, which is conducted by the University of Oxford and the Caribbean Centre for Climate Change. The project aims to raise US$35 million over the next three to five years to study the effects of climate change and its effect of tourism in the region.
The UK Department for International Development recently contributed 240,000 pounds to the project, and part of that seed funding will be used for the six-month study in Ochos Rios, Jamaica, and Eleuthera, Bahamas.
As reported in The Eleutheran News, the study will provide a blueprint for climate and adaptation modelling, as well as vulnerability screening, that can be used across other tourist destinations in the Caribbean.
Destinational data collected between 1961-2008 will be assessed to calculate the islands' likely climate until 2100. Likely levels of rainfall, windspeed, rising sea temperatures and levels as well as the frequency of hurricanes will be predicted.
The CARIBSAVE project is intended to inform policy planning not just in the tourism sector but also in health, energy, agriculture and infrastructure to name a few.
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Jet Blue adds movies to Caribbean flights
Caribbean Travel News reports that Jet Blue will be offering feature films to its Caribbean and Latin American flights to make them more enjoyable.
Starting from April, six complimentary movies will be selected from top Hollywood studios each month and three films will be available in each flight direction on channels 38,39 and 40. April features include Yes Man, Seven Pounds, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, Marley & Me, Defiance and Revolutionary Road. For other flights longer than two hours, films can be purchased for US$5.
Jet Blue flies to 14 Caribbean and Latin American destinations including: Aruba; Nassau, Bahamas; Bermuda; Cancun; Bogota, Colombia; San Jose, Costa Rica; Puerto Plata, Santiago and Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic; Montego Bay, Jamaica (service begins May 21); Aguadilla, Ponce and San Juan, Puerto Rico; and San Maarten.
Starting from April, six complimentary movies will be selected from top Hollywood studios each month and three films will be available in each flight direction on channels 38,39 and 40. April features include Yes Man, Seven Pounds, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, Marley & Me, Defiance and Revolutionary Road. For other flights longer than two hours, films can be purchased for US$5.
Jet Blue flies to 14 Caribbean and Latin American destinations including: Aruba; Nassau, Bahamas; Bermuda; Cancun; Bogota, Colombia; San Jose, Costa Rica; Puerto Plata, Santiago and Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic; Montego Bay, Jamaica (service begins May 21); Aguadilla, Ponce and San Juan, Puerto Rico; and San Maarten.
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Caribbean tourism going green
The Caribbean tourism sector is going green. Read all about it on Environmental Leader
Falling tourism forces changes at B'dos Tourism Authority
The Barbados Tourism Authority (BTA) is to be split into separate entities as authorities in the island move to boost tourism figures, on the heels of a 7.7 per cent drop in long-stay arrivals.
Tourism Minister Richard Sealy said the changes would be made by the end of this year.
The development will see one entity being responsible for marketing - the Barbados Tourism Marketing Company - and the other for product development - the Barbados Tourism Product Development Company. Sealy said there would be no duplication of work involving the two entities and administrative costs would be shared.
"We will have two entities that are engaged in two activities that are crucial to the long-term survival of our tourism industry. There will be a common services company for these two entities, so that corporate services and so on, administrative functions, those costs can be shared and we can have two efficient organisations that are focused on the tasks that confront them," the Tourism Minister said.
Sealy added that there had been adjustments to the BTA Board, trimming it from 18 to 11. But he said no one had been left without a job.
"We have not sacked or chased away any-one...merely invited them to be a part of this [new] entity," he explained.
The Tourism Minister has acknowledged that this year would be very challenging for the country's biggest foreign exchange earning sector.
Although the cruise industry has been doing well, with arrivals up by 5.4 per cent, long-stay arrivals were down by 7.7 per cent at the end of February when compared to the same period in 2008 - a record year in which the industry made "more money than it has ever earned".
The biggest decline was in the United States market where there was a 14 per cent decline up to the end of last month and there was also a significant 9.2 per cent drop in arrivals from the United Kingdom - its largest market.
The Tourism Minister suggested the decrease was a result of cutbacks in flights to the island by international airlines but said the government is in negotiations with existing partners and new ones to boost airlift to the island.
Tourism Minister Richard Sealy said the changes would be made by the end of this year.
The development will see one entity being responsible for marketing - the Barbados Tourism Marketing Company - and the other for product development - the Barbados Tourism Product Development Company. Sealy said there would be no duplication of work involving the two entities and administrative costs would be shared.
"We will have two entities that are engaged in two activities that are crucial to the long-term survival of our tourism industry. There will be a common services company for these two entities, so that corporate services and so on, administrative functions, those costs can be shared and we can have two efficient organisations that are focused on the tasks that confront them," the Tourism Minister said.
Sealy added that there had been adjustments to the BTA Board, trimming it from 18 to 11. But he said no one had been left without a job.
"We have not sacked or chased away any-one...merely invited them to be a part of this [new] entity," he explained.
The Tourism Minister has acknowledged that this year would be very challenging for the country's biggest foreign exchange earning sector.
Although the cruise industry has been doing well, with arrivals up by 5.4 per cent, long-stay arrivals were down by 7.7 per cent at the end of February when compared to the same period in 2008 - a record year in which the industry made "more money than it has ever earned".
The biggest decline was in the United States market where there was a 14 per cent decline up to the end of last month and there was also a significant 9.2 per cent drop in arrivals from the United Kingdom - its largest market.
The Tourism Minister suggested the decrease was a result of cutbacks in flights to the island by international airlines but said the government is in negotiations with existing partners and new ones to boost airlift to the island.
And in airline news...
American Eagle expands air service to Martinique
American Eagle will offer daily service between its hub in San Juan, Puerto Rico and Martinique's capital, Fort-de-France from April.
The new daily service replaces previous the American Eagle service, which operated four times weekly.
"This is a wonderful boost for tourism in Martinique following the just concluded general strike among our local unions," said Muriel Wiltord, director of the Americas for the Martinique Promotion Bureau/CMT USA.
"The strike may have had a minimal impact on tourism, but we intend to put forth a maximum effort to ensure a successful year for our travel industry partners and visitors to the island. This is a great start to that maximum effort, and I hope to have more good news to share soon."
The strike action began in the French overseas region of Guadeloupe on January 20th and spread to neighbouring Martinique, crippling the islands.
The general strikes began over the cost of living, the prices of basic commodities, including fuel and food and demands for an increase in the monthly salaries of low income workers.
The protests ended after union leaders reached agreement with employers on a pay raise.
Winair keeps Nevis route
The St Maarten-based Windward Islands Airways International (Winair) has shelved the plans it announced a few weeks ago to cut its Nevis route.
Managing Director Edwin Hodge announced yesterday that after several days of discussion with the Nevis Island Administration (NIA), agreement was reached to keep the Nevis service going.
"Maintaining a reliable, scheduled air link between Nevis and St Maarten is in the best interest of the island and the people of Nevis, especially in the present world economic climate," said Nevis Premier and Minister of Tourism Joseph Parry.
"Our objective was to maintain St Maarten as a gateway to Nevis for international travellers, while providing the opportunity for Nevisians to travel to St Maarten for a day trip. This we have achieved and I'm sure that the mutually beneficial relationship between Nevis and Winair will continue into the future."
A decline in the number of customers and rapidly growing operational costs that put a strain on the airline's finances had prompted management to announce plans to cut four routes - Nevis, Dominica, Tortola and St Kitts.
While the Dominica route was abandoned on March 1st and Tortola and St Kitts had their last flights on March 29th, the Nevis government approached the airline's management to see what could be done to save the Nevis service.
"The attempts and efforts made by the government of Nevis demonstrate the excellent and long-term relationship that both Winair and Nevis has shared over the years. Therefore, I commend Premier Parry and his team of officials for their efforts and significant work in saving the route as they understand the importance that Winair has been playing within the community," Hodge said.
The Winair executive pointed out that the airline has established a number of interline agreements with some of the world's major carriers, including Delta, United, Northwest, Air Canada and Air France, which will be able to connect passengers to St Maarten via Nevis.
"Winair provides a perfect platform for the growth and continued development of tourism in Nevis as it serves the island as a springboard for many tourists and visitors attempting to connect with some of the world's top airlines. We see a win-win situation with the input that the NIA administration has done and commend them for jumping immediately on board, as it is their vision which has brought the level of success that we are already enjoying," Hodge said. "I trust that we will (Winair) will continue to deliver as the expectations are very high."
Winair began servicing the island of Nevis in 1962 and has provided an uninterrupted service ever since.
The carrier also flies daily to the islands of Saba, St Barths, St Eustatius, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, and Montserrat.
Air Jamaica cuts NY-Barbados route
Air Jamaica will cut its New York-Barbados service, even as it increases travel on other routes as the airline aligns capacity to meet market demand.
Flights on the Barbados flight will be suspended on April 20.
At the same time, the other services that will increase include the New York-Grenada route, which will have four weekly flights; Fort Lauderdale to Jamaica, which will have five daily flights; New York to Jamaica, four daily flights; and a daily service between Toronto and Jamaica.
In all, Air Jamaica will increase its overall schedule to 246 weekly flights.
American Eagle will offer daily service between its hub in San Juan, Puerto Rico and Martinique's capital, Fort-de-France from April.
The new daily service replaces previous the American Eagle service, which operated four times weekly.
"This is a wonderful boost for tourism in Martinique following the just concluded general strike among our local unions," said Muriel Wiltord, director of the Americas for the Martinique Promotion Bureau/CMT USA.
"The strike may have had a minimal impact on tourism, but we intend to put forth a maximum effort to ensure a successful year for our travel industry partners and visitors to the island. This is a great start to that maximum effort, and I hope to have more good news to share soon."
The strike action began in the French overseas region of Guadeloupe on January 20th and spread to neighbouring Martinique, crippling the islands.
The general strikes began over the cost of living, the prices of basic commodities, including fuel and food and demands for an increase in the monthly salaries of low income workers.
The protests ended after union leaders reached agreement with employers on a pay raise.
Winair keeps Nevis route
The St Maarten-based Windward Islands Airways International (Winair) has shelved the plans it announced a few weeks ago to cut its Nevis route.
Managing Director Edwin Hodge announced yesterday that after several days of discussion with the Nevis Island Administration (NIA), agreement was reached to keep the Nevis service going.
"Maintaining a reliable, scheduled air link between Nevis and St Maarten is in the best interest of the island and the people of Nevis, especially in the present world economic climate," said Nevis Premier and Minister of Tourism Joseph Parry.
"Our objective was to maintain St Maarten as a gateway to Nevis for international travellers, while providing the opportunity for Nevisians to travel to St Maarten for a day trip. This we have achieved and I'm sure that the mutually beneficial relationship between Nevis and Winair will continue into the future."
A decline in the number of customers and rapidly growing operational costs that put a strain on the airline's finances had prompted management to announce plans to cut four routes - Nevis, Dominica, Tortola and St Kitts.
While the Dominica route was abandoned on March 1st and Tortola and St Kitts had their last flights on March 29th, the Nevis government approached the airline's management to see what could be done to save the Nevis service.
"The attempts and efforts made by the government of Nevis demonstrate the excellent and long-term relationship that both Winair and Nevis has shared over the years. Therefore, I commend Premier Parry and his team of officials for their efforts and significant work in saving the route as they understand the importance that Winair has been playing within the community," Hodge said.
The Winair executive pointed out that the airline has established a number of interline agreements with some of the world's major carriers, including Delta, United, Northwest, Air Canada and Air France, which will be able to connect passengers to St Maarten via Nevis.
"Winair provides a perfect platform for the growth and continued development of tourism in Nevis as it serves the island as a springboard for many tourists and visitors attempting to connect with some of the world's top airlines. We see a win-win situation with the input that the NIA administration has done and commend them for jumping immediately on board, as it is their vision which has brought the level of success that we are already enjoying," Hodge said. "I trust that we will (Winair) will continue to deliver as the expectations are very high."
Winair began servicing the island of Nevis in 1962 and has provided an uninterrupted service ever since.
The carrier also flies daily to the islands of Saba, St Barths, St Eustatius, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, and Montserrat.
Air Jamaica cuts NY-Barbados route
Air Jamaica will cut its New York-Barbados service, even as it increases travel on other routes as the airline aligns capacity to meet market demand.
Flights on the Barbados flight will be suspended on April 20.
At the same time, the other services that will increase include the New York-Grenada route, which will have four weekly flights; Fort Lauderdale to Jamaica, which will have five daily flights; New York to Jamaica, four daily flights; and a daily service between Toronto and Jamaica.
In all, Air Jamaica will increase its overall schedule to 246 weekly flights.
Amy Winehouse, Jazz and other stuff
It’s been a while since Meka Caribbean has updated you folks on the goings on in regional tourism and we do apologise. The last three months have indeed been very interesting so, to make up for our lack of activity on the blog, we’ve decided to give you a round up of what’s been happening in the world of Caribbean tourism, so you’ll be up to speed.
Jazz by any other name
The Plymouth Jazz Festival is no more. Held for the last four years in Tobago, the festival was cancelled back in February. Major sponsor CL Financial, facing financial difficulties, pulled out of the affair but organiser Anthony Maharaj cited the global economic downturn and an expected low turnout as the reason for the cancellation, Hoteliers in Tobago cried foul though, citing fully booked rooms for the jazz weekend as evidence that people were still interested in attending. In a move to save face, the Tobago House of Assembly has organised another jazz festival which will feature local and regional performers and will take place throughout the island. It’s still jazz but the question remains, can Tobago ever recover the popularity of the Plymouth Jazz festival?
St Lucia Jazz going strong
I would’ve given anything to be a fly on the wall at the St Lucia Tourism Board when the news of the cancellation of Tobago Jazz hit. Usually held a mere week or two before St Lucia’s famed jazz festival, the Tobago version has been St Lucia’s biggest competition, pulling away patrons from Trinidad, which has traditionally been St Lucia’s biggest regional market. Obviously capitalising on the void, the St Lucia tourist board has been running full-page ads in Trinidad newspapers for their festival, which features a slew of big names, including performers such as Patti Labelle, James Ingram, Angelique Kidjo, Chaka Khan, Jeffrey Osbourne and Michael McDonald. I guess Tobago’s loss will undoubtedly be St Lucia’s gain.
Star gazing
On the topic of St Lucia, that island has certainly been enjoying some international attention thanks to Amy Winehouse. The beleaguered British singer recently spent two months on the island to reportedly get her life back in order. From all reports she fell in love with St Lucia and its people and even plans to do some recording there. Winehouse will be the headliner at the upcoming Jazz festival and recent reports say she is heading eyeing a villa to buy on the island. The Turks and Caicos was in the news too when American actor Bruce Willis wed British model Emma Heming there. Willis owns a home on the exclusive Parrot Cay. Singer Mariah Carey was also spotted frolicking under the Caribbean in Barbados with her hubby Nick Cannon for her birthday. Queen Latifah spent her Christmas vacation in Tobago and although some items were reportedly stolen from her room, she had nothing but praises for the country when she appeared on Jay Leno’s show.
Jazz by any other name
The Plymouth Jazz Festival is no more. Held for the last four years in Tobago, the festival was cancelled back in February. Major sponsor CL Financial, facing financial difficulties, pulled out of the affair but organiser Anthony Maharaj cited the global economic downturn and an expected low turnout as the reason for the cancellation, Hoteliers in Tobago cried foul though, citing fully booked rooms for the jazz weekend as evidence that people were still interested in attending. In a move to save face, the Tobago House of Assembly has organised another jazz festival which will feature local and regional performers and will take place throughout the island. It’s still jazz but the question remains, can Tobago ever recover the popularity of the Plymouth Jazz festival?
St Lucia Jazz going strong
I would’ve given anything to be a fly on the wall at the St Lucia Tourism Board when the news of the cancellation of Tobago Jazz hit. Usually held a mere week or two before St Lucia’s famed jazz festival, the Tobago version has been St Lucia’s biggest competition, pulling away patrons from Trinidad, which has traditionally been St Lucia’s biggest regional market. Obviously capitalising on the void, the St Lucia tourist board has been running full-page ads in Trinidad newspapers for their festival, which features a slew of big names, including performers such as Patti Labelle, James Ingram, Angelique Kidjo, Chaka Khan, Jeffrey Osbourne and Michael McDonald. I guess Tobago’s loss will undoubtedly be St Lucia’s gain.
Star gazing
On the topic of St Lucia, that island has certainly been enjoying some international attention thanks to Amy Winehouse. The beleaguered British singer recently spent two months on the island to reportedly get her life back in order. From all reports she fell in love with St Lucia and its people and even plans to do some recording there. Winehouse will be the headliner at the upcoming Jazz festival and recent reports say she is heading eyeing a villa to buy on the island. The Turks and Caicos was in the news too when American actor Bruce Willis wed British model Emma Heming there. Willis owns a home on the exclusive Parrot Cay. Singer Mariah Carey was also spotted frolicking under the Caribbean in Barbados with her hubby Nick Cannon for her birthday. Queen Latifah spent her Christmas vacation in Tobago and although some items were reportedly stolen from her room, she had nothing but praises for the country when she appeared on Jay Leno’s show.
Canadians love the Caribbean
Despite the current economic challenges facing the travel and tourism industry, the Caribbean Tourism Organisation’s statistics show that interest remains high in the Caribbean, particularly within North America where the core of the region’s tourist arrivals originated. Tourist arrivals to the Caribbean steadily increased in 2008 from the previous year. With a total of nearly 2.5 million Canadian visitors, the Canadian tourism market accounted for an outstanding 14 percent growth overall.
“Canadians have been long-time supporters of the Caribbean and have nearly doubled their tourism numbers to the region since 2005,” said Hugh Riley, interim secretary general of the CTO and co-chief executive officer for the Caribbean Tourism Development Company (CTDC). “The latest statistics underscore the importance of Canada as one of the Caribbean region’s top tourism markets.”
Canada is showing strong support of the Caribbean region from tour operators as well as additional investments from air carriers. Airlift from new gateway cities, particularly from the West have been added including WestJet’s new direct service to Nassau from Calgary and Transat’s new direct service to Jamaica. Barbados, Jamaica, Dominican Republic and St. Lucia all gained new airlift this past winter season, and both Air Canada and Sunwing commenced additional flights to new destinations throughout the Caribbean region.
The Caribbean, in turn, is continuing to invest in new products throughout 2009, with hotel and resort developments and openings across the region.
“Canadians have been long-time supporters of the Caribbean and have nearly doubled their tourism numbers to the region since 2005,” said Hugh Riley, interim secretary general of the CTO and co-chief executive officer for the Caribbean Tourism Development Company (CTDC). “The latest statistics underscore the importance of Canada as one of the Caribbean region’s top tourism markets.”
Canada is showing strong support of the Caribbean region from tour operators as well as additional investments from air carriers. Airlift from new gateway cities, particularly from the West have been added including WestJet’s new direct service to Nassau from Calgary and Transat’s new direct service to Jamaica. Barbados, Jamaica, Dominican Republic and St. Lucia all gained new airlift this past winter season, and both Air Canada and Sunwing commenced additional flights to new destinations throughout the Caribbean region.
The Caribbean, in turn, is continuing to invest in new products throughout 2009, with hotel and resort developments and openings across the region.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Caribbean ranks high in Traveler's Choice Awards
NEW YORK, February 12, 2009 – TripAdvisor has announced its annual "Traveler's Choice" Awards for 2009 and select properties in the Caribbean have ranked among the world's best for value, romance, family, all-inclusive and luxury vacations. The annual honors are a representation of the unbiased opinions of real travelers, awarded by the world's largest online travel community. The awards are given based on the consumer feedback of TripAdvisor's more than 10 million members. Inclusion is reflective of the quantity and quality of reviews a hotel or resort receives. A wealth of Caribbean destinations were represented in 2009 including Aruba, the Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bonaire, Jamaica, St. Lucia, St. Martin and Turks and Caicos.
"TripAdvisor's 'Traveler's Choice' Awards are of particular importance to the Caribbean as they reflect the unfettered opinion of our guests without provocation or persuasion," said Hugh Riley, interim secretary general of the Caribbean Tourism Organization. "We want to impress our guests with an authentic Caribbean experience that can't be duplicated elsewhere in the world, whether they are looking for the perfect family, romantic or luxury getaway. This recognition proves that we are doing that and we thank our loyal guests for making their voices heard on our behalf."
The Caribbean's 2009 TripAdvisor "Traveler's Choice" Award winners are:
Top 100 Best Bargains in the World:
27) Deep Blue View Intimate Resort (Safir, Bonaire)
33) Peach and Quiet (Christ Church, Barbados)
47) The Inn on the Bay (Marigot Bay, St. Lucia)
52) Catcha Falling Star (Negril, Jamaica)
Top 10 Best All-Inclusives in the World:
1) The Caves (Negril, Jamaica)
2) Mopan River Resort (Benque Viejo del Carmen, Belize_
6) Royal Plantation (Ocho Rios, Jamaica)
8) Sunset at the Palms (Negril, Jamaica)
10) East Winds Inn (Gros Islet, St. Lucia)
Top 10 Best for Families in the World:
9) FDR Pebbles (Falmouth, Jamaica)
Top 10 Best for Romance in the World:
3) The Caves (Negril, Jamaica)
8) Golden Tulip Bucuti Beach Resort & Tara Beach Suites (Oranjestad, Aruba)
Top 100 Best Luxury in the World:
5) The Caves (Negril, Jamaica)
9) Seven Stars Resort (Providenciales, Turks and Caicos)
18) Little Arches Hotel (Christ Church, Barbados)
32) Chabil Mar Villas (Placencia, Belize)
37) The Tuscany (Providenciales, Turks and Caicos)
44) Jamaica Inn (Ocho Rios, Jamaica)
48) Rock House (Harbour Island, Bahamas)
57) East Winds Inn (Gros Islet, St. Lucia)
69) Villa Renaissance (Providenciales, Turks and Caicos)
"TripAdvisor's 'Traveler's Choice' Awards are of particular importance to the Caribbean as they reflect the unfettered opinion of our guests without provocation or persuasion," said Hugh Riley, interim secretary general of the Caribbean Tourism Organization. "We want to impress our guests with an authentic Caribbean experience that can't be duplicated elsewhere in the world, whether they are looking for the perfect family, romantic or luxury getaway. This recognition proves that we are doing that and we thank our loyal guests for making their voices heard on our behalf."
The Caribbean's 2009 TripAdvisor "Traveler's Choice" Award winners are:
Top 100 Best Bargains in the World:
27) Deep Blue View Intimate Resort (Safir, Bonaire)
33) Peach and Quiet (Christ Church, Barbados)
47) The Inn on the Bay (Marigot Bay, St. Lucia)
52) Catcha Falling Star (Negril, Jamaica)
Top 10 Best All-Inclusives in the World:
1) The Caves (Negril, Jamaica)
2) Mopan River Resort (Benque Viejo del Carmen, Belize_
6) Royal Plantation (Ocho Rios, Jamaica)
8) Sunset at the Palms (Negril, Jamaica)
10) East Winds Inn (Gros Islet, St. Lucia)
Top 10 Best for Families in the World:
9) FDR Pebbles (Falmouth, Jamaica)
Top 10 Best for Romance in the World:
3) The Caves (Negril, Jamaica)
8) Golden Tulip Bucuti Beach Resort & Tara Beach Suites (Oranjestad, Aruba)
Top 100 Best Luxury in the World:
5) The Caves (Negril, Jamaica)
9) Seven Stars Resort (Providenciales, Turks and Caicos)
18) Little Arches Hotel (Christ Church, Barbados)
32) Chabil Mar Villas (Placencia, Belize)
37) The Tuscany (Providenciales, Turks and Caicos)
44) Jamaica Inn (Ocho Rios, Jamaica)
48) Rock House (Harbour Island, Bahamas)
57) East Winds Inn (Gros Islet, St. Lucia)
69) Villa Renaissance (Providenciales, Turks and Caicos)
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