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.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
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.
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