Minister Bartlett in New York for CTO Caribbean Week

Multi-city trip to include New York, Chicago, and Dallas as part of a marketing blitz.

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

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

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

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

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

Minister Bartlett commented on the importance of collaboration and innovation within the industry, adding, “CTO’s Caribbean Week allows us to share best practices and explore new strategies for attracting visitors.”

“By embracing innovation and working together, we can ensure that the Caribbean remains top-of-mind for travelers worldwide.”

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

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