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Jamaica Carnival Postponed Until Next Year

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Jamaica Tourism Minister Hon. Edmund Bartlett today announced that Carnival in Jamaica organizers will forgo its annual road march and related activities until April 11, 2021.

“As the country enters the community transmission phase of the COVID-19 virus, we strongly believe it is in the best interest of our people, to forego hosting our annual carnival celebrations for this year,” Minister Bartlett expressed.

“We are mindful of the significant economic loss this will have on our country, as this event generates billions annually, with many small and medium sized enterprises benefitting from the celebrations. However, the Government of Jamaica must continue to put strong measures in place to prevent unnecessary exposure of our people and visitors to the deadly disease,” said Minister Bartlett.

The road parade originally scheduled for Sunday, April 19 was first postponed to Sunday, October 25, due to the threat of the spread of the novel coronavirus. The decision to forego hosting the event in 2020 was made after consultation with event organizers and members of Government and is in keeping with current containment measures.

“Based on all of the professional healthcare advice, taking into account that carnival is not only a local but also an international tourism entertainment product, we have no choice but to reschedule the staging of our Carnival in Jamaica Road Parade from October 25th 2020 to April 11th 2021.  This will allow us the time to do what we need to do to have a safe and enjoyable Carnival in 2021,” said Chairman of the Carnival in Jamaica stakeholders committee, Kamal Bankay.

He further noted that all of the bands and fetes will honor all tickets and costumes purchased in 2020 for the 2021 staging.

A revised Carnival in Jamaica calendar, including all the major fetes will follow in the coming days.

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MEDIA CONTACT: Jamaica Ministry of Tourism, Corporate Communications, 64 Knutsford Boulevard, Kingston 5, Tel: 920-4926-30, Fax: 920-4944

Jamaica Offers Stunning Venues as Couples Seek Smaller, Intimate Wedding Celebrations

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Couples around the world are reimagining wedding plans in this new landscape and while they are opting for smaller, more intimate ceremonies, their desire for a stunning and unforgettable venue for the big day remains the same. With Jamaica’s borders now open to international travelers and a comprehensive set of health and safety protocols in place, travelers dreaming of an idyllic destination to tie the knot need look no further than the island’s pristine beaches, tropical waterfalls, world-class accommodations, and renowned hospitality.

“As the leading wedding and honeymoon destination in the Caribbean, we are thrilled to safely welcome couples to Jamaica to celebrate their big day,” says Donovan White, Jamaica’s Director of Tourism. “In addition to our array of natural backdrops for every type of ceremony, we have an impressive roster of wedding and honeymoon experts on island available for our brides and grooms. With strict protocols in place at our accommodations and attractions, the destination remains a top choice for couples around the globe.”

Below is a roundup of the latest wedding news and offerings at some of Jamaica’s most romantic properties:

Sandals Resorts

Marsha-Ann Brown Donaldson, Director of Romance at Sandals Resort recently shared that “Love is not cancelled” with the phased re-openings of their Sandals Montego Bay, Sandals Royal Caribbean, and Sandals Negril & Beaches Negril properties. Since the reopening in June, Sandals has hosted a total of 55 weddings across its properties as couples seek out more remote and intimate celebrations. At all properties, the wedding guest capacity has been cut by 50% to ensure the protection of all travelers. Several safety protocols to improve the wedding experience during COVID-19 have been implemented including: 18 Touch Point of Cleanliness practice on all properties, virtual pre-planning sessions to assist in wedding coordination, buffets switched to a la carte menus, and physical distancing during wedding ceremonies and pre-wedding activities. Couples can also look forward to the re-opening of Sandals South Coast on  October 1, 2020. The property underwent a multi-million-dollar renovation which includes the addition of a new modern wedding venue at the resort’s Italian Village wing, 20 of the world’s first-ever Swim-up Rondoval™Suites, and renovated Dutch Village Suites. The refurbished suites are now accepting reservations for arrivals beginning December 10, 2020.

Jamaica Inn

A spectacular setting in Ocho Rios for a destination wedding or vow renewal, Jamaica Inn offers unparalleled views of the sparkling Caribbean Sea and Jamaica’s majestic mountains. Since the destination’s reopening, the classic property has introduced a new level of a safety and cleanliness for couples, wedding guests and staff alike. The property requires a 50-person maximum capacity for events, masked staff and temperature checks, among other measures. In keeping with travelers’ demands, the property offers even more personalized services catering to couples who want a smaller, more customized ceremony with the help of an on-site Wedding Specialist. Jamaica Inn is now offering a 20% discount on wedding packages and a special group rate on accommodations for wedding guests. 

GoldenEye Resort

GoldenEye Resort has been the epitome of 1950s glamour since James Bond author Ian Fleming first built the lush estate in the town of Oracabessa on Jamaica’s North coast. It is also a premier choice for small, private wedding ceremonies accommodating up to 10 guests. Couples can also choose from a variety of other private options including locations at the Private Fleming Beach and Sunken Garden, each area housing up to 30 guests.  Protocols implemented at the property for wedding ceremonies include the installation of hand sanitizer stations around the property, mask requirements for all staff, and rigorous, daily cleaning procedures of all areas, among other new policies.

Jakes Hotel

In the heart of Jamaica’s South Coast, Jakes Hotel on Treasure Beach is a boho-chic boutique hotel comprising colorful cottages and bungalows with seaside views. Jakes prides itself on being authentically Jamaican by curating intimate wedding ceremonies for couples on the legendary Treasure beach, or in a gazebo overlooking the beach. Honeymoon stays are common additions in wedding packages at Jakes, with couples opting to extend their wedding getaway in oceanfront bungalows complete with massages at the Driftwood Spa. Since the reopening in July, Jakes has implemented several health and safety protocols including mask requirements for all staff, temperature checks for staff and guests and hand sanitizer stations installed around the property.

From classic beachside elopements to ceremonies against lush, colorful rainforests, couples choosing Jamaica as their wedding destination of choice will enjoy unforgettable memories for years to come.

For more about Jamaica’s wedding and honeymoon offerings, visit www.visitjamaica.com/weddings-and-honeymoons/

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MEDIA CONTACT: Jamaica Ministry of Tourism, Corporate Communications, 64 Knutsford Boulevard, Kingston 5, Tel: 920-4926-30, Fax: 920-4944

Newly-reappointed Jamaica Tourism Minister Back at the Helm

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Newly-reappointed Jamaica Tourism Minister, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, made a brief stop by the Ministry’s New Kingston Head Office this morning, before heading to his first Cabinet meeting, since being sworn in yesterday.

Minister Bartlett had a short discussion with Permanent Secretary, Ms. Jennifer Griffith (left in the photo); Senior Director for Technical Services in the Ministry, Mr. David Dobson (right); and other members of the Ministry’s Senior Management team.

Fourteen Ministers of Government and the Attorney-General were sworn into office on Sunday (September 13, 2020), during a ceremony at King’s House.

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MEDIA CONTACT: Jamaica Ministry of Tourism, Corporate Communications, 64 Knutsford Boulevard, Kingston 5, Tel: 920-4926-30, Fax: 920-4944

Sandals Resorts Reveals New Designs

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Sandals Resorts International, the world’s leading all-inclusive company, is proud to unveil the design plans of a multi-million-dollar renovation at their picturesque Jamaican oasis, Sandals South Coast. Set to debut this December, guests can expect a new era for the resort company with the addition of the world’s first-ever Swim-up Rondoval™ Suites, positioned on a 17,040 sq. ft. pool oasis. Guests will also revel in a completely reimagined 112-room Dutch Village with direct access to two new expansive swim-up pools. A modern lush wedding venue is being added to adorn the garden in the resorts Italian Village.

Having first introduced the cutting-edge Rondoval design at Sandals Grande Antigua, followed by Sandals Grande St. Lucian, Sandals Grenada and Sandals Royal Barbados, Sandals South Coast will now set another milestone with the first-ever Swim-Up Rondoval Suites. Designed to be a luxurious haven tucked away from the world’s path, the 20 Swim-up Rondoval Suites will measure an impressive 22 feet in diameter with 20-foot conical ceilings. Bringing guests closer to the water than ever before, the suites in the round will feature private plunge pools ornamented with Italian glass-clad fountains and Indonesian limestone. Hallmarks of the innovation include access to a zero-entry 17,040 sq. ft. pool, the longest pool in the Western Hemisphere, a scalloped Tranquility Soaking Tub™ for two and a cozy indoor wicker swing with scenic outdoor views. Furnishings will be custom-made from across the globe, bathrooms will boast a suspended stone vanity with a Hollywood lit mirror, and outdoors, contemporary lounge furnishings will complete the private coral sundeck. Couples will enjoy the attentive pampering of a personal butler, trained by the Guild of Professional English Butlers, offering complete exclusivity throughout their stay.

Further exceeding expectations of next-generation leisure travelers, the resort’s Dutch Village will undergo a complete renovation setting the scene for modern relaxation inspired by the sea. The fully reimagined suites will be a nod to the water’s natural beauty with a light blue and neutral color scheme. The 112-room village – comprised of 16 Butler Elite suites and 96 Club and Luxury Level rooms will include indoor free-standing tubs and showers, outdoor Tranquility Soaking Tubs™ for two, and swim-up access from a private pool for select categories.

“Sandals South Coast is one of the most beautiful destinations in the uncharted land of Jamaica,” stated Gordon “Butch” Stewart, Chairman of Sandals Resorts. “Our goal is to exceed expectations time and time again, and the new Sandals South Coast will do that and more. The resort which is nestled within a lush 500-acre nature preserve, along crystal blue waters was our inspiration for this incredibly expansive project. We can’t wait for our guests to experience these new, luxurious innovations.” Stewart continued.

These enhancements will join the resort’s already cutting-edge architectural design features, such as the lavish Over-the-Water Bungalows, Over-the-Water Serenity Wedding Chapel, and an overwater bar offering 360-degree views of the ocean.

Sandals South Coast will reopen on October 1, 2020. The new Swim-Up Rondoval Suites and renovated Dutch Village suites are now accepting reservations for arrivals beginning December 10, 2020. To book your next Luxury Included® vacation in one of these captivating suites, visit: https://www.sandals.com/south-coast/. 

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MEDIA CONTACT: 1-888-SANDALS, info@sandals.com

Sandals Foundation Campaign to aid Caribbean Schools

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As part of its efforts to strengthen outreach to Caribbean communities, Sandals Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Sandals Resorts International, has launched its “Lessons Alive” campaign to raise funds for purchasing supplies and resources to help vulnerable families facing back-to-school expenses.

The campaign will also aid Caribbean schools acquire much-needed resources as they reconfigure their operations to  meet the newly-required safety and sanitation measures to commence the 2020/2021 academic year.

While annual back-to-school fairs and support have been a long-standing tradition of the Sandals Foundation, Executive Director, Heidi Clarke, says this year’s approach is shaped by the unique realities being experienced.

“This is a challenging time for many families across the Caribbean. Many breadwinners have lost their source of income, others are facing reduced salaries. The Caribbean people are resilient, but there is a lot of uncertainty at the moment. The ‘Lessons Alive’ campaign is hoped to relieve some of the expenses that usually accompany back-to-school preparations so children can get back into the classrooms and resume their studies with as much ease as possible.”

Funds raised, Clarke says, will “help purchase school bags, books, stationery, and other supplies to ease the burden of vulnerable families, especially those who depend on the tourism industry for their livelihood. We will also be helping schools with the resources they will need to implement the new safety measures that are required to accommodate their pupils.”

Since its inception in 2009, the Sandals Foundation has made significant contributions to the development of education in the region to promote literacy and academic pursuits.

“The Sandals Foundation sees education as the vehicle through which every individual, young and old, can have an equal opportunity to reach their full potential. Over the last 11 years, we have been able to provide essential learning tools and resources and invest in state-of-the-art infrastructure to support the academic pursuits of the people in the region.”

To date, Clarke says: “With the help of our partners and guests, we have been able to donate close to 300,000 books to students and 67,000 pounds of much-needed supplies. We have been able to impact some 200,000 students, over 800 schools, donated some 3,000 computers, trained over 3,000 teachers, and provided close to 200 scholarships to vulnerable yet promising students.”

The “Lessons Alive” campaign is the latest in a long list of activities that the Sandals Foundation has executed to respond to the social and economic needs evolving from the global pandemic.

To date, hundreds of care packages have been delivered to the elderly and vulnerable persons in underserved communities. Sandals Foundation purchased ventilators for hospitals, strengthened the capacity of clinics and local healthcare services in tourism dependent communities, provided meals for and support to medical frontline workers, assisted youths to take advantage of online learning programs by providing tablet computer devices, and covered the costs of Internet connection so students can continue their studies.

Protective masks have been distributed to communities in St. Lucia, financial assistance has been provided to families of high school scholarship recipients in Barbados and Jamaica, as well as to value chain supply operators whose sale to artisans in the tourism sector has abruptly paused due to the close of hotels. Additionally, the Sandals Foundation’s partnership with the Sweet Water Foundation in Grenada has seen a 24-hour sexual abuse helpline be expanded to provide counseling service for persons struggling to cope with COVID-19 related challenges.

“The security of the Caribbean family is at the heart of our work as a Foundation, and they need us now more than ever. We are so grateful for the help of our amazing team members who are our eyes and ears in the communities and the support of our very loyal partners, guests, travel agents, and well-wishers who have made it possible for us to respond to the evolving needs of families across the region,” Clarke added.

Donations to the “Lessons Alive” campaign are encouraged; visit the Sandals Foundation website at www.sandalsfoundation.org and donate to the education tab. 100% of every dollar will go directly to supporting education and back-to-school needs in the Caribbean.

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MEDIA CONTACT: 1-888-SANDALS, info@sandals.com

New School Water Harvesting Systems Set to Combat Drought and Improve Sanitation in new COVID-19 Era

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Ahead of the start of the 2020/2021 academic year, work is far advanced to improve the drought management strategy and enhance the sanitation systems within seven infant and primary schools across St. Ann, Hanover, St. James and Westmoreland.

In January, long before Jamaica recorded its first coronavirus infection, the National Education Trust, with the support of the Sandals Foundation embarked on implementing its “Water Harvesting and Sanitation for Schools” project as part of efforts to mitigate drought conditions, implement sustainable water harvesting systems, and improve sanitation facilities for over 200 children across the 4 parishes.

The activities are valued at more than J$7 million and is made possible through an ongoing partnership between the Sandals Foundation and Coca Cola.

Shirley Moncrieffe, Director of Education Donor Projects at the National Education Trust, says the water and sanitation program is crucial in enhancing the social, economic, and health realities of students.

“The lack of water has a harmful effect in the quality of life for our children as it not only causes various diseases, but it contributes to poor sanitation and hygiene and retards education outcomes.”

Through this project, Moncrieffe said, “We aim to ensure that children ages 4 to 12 years old have access to safe drinking water, adequate sanitary toilet and hand washing facilities, and minimized exposure to mosquito infestation and diseases.”

Benefiting schools are Cocoon Castle Primary & Infant School as well as Success Primary & Infant School in Hanover, Holly Hill Primary & Infant School, Kings Primary & Infant School in Westmoreland, Lime Hall Primary & Infant School in St. Ann, and Farm Primary & Infant School in St. James. The seventh school will be completed in the coming weeks.

Now, as the island’s academic year seeks to resume in a new reality characterized by the global COVID-19 pandemic, sustainable water and sanitation systems are even more greatly needed.

“These systems will complement the sustained efforts of teachers and parents to develop healthy sanitation habits amongst children,” said Heidi Clarke, Executive Director at the Sandals Foundation.

“The infant and primary school years,” Clarke continued, “are critical stages of a child’s personal and educational growth. The Sandals Foundation is committed to ensuring that children are not denied class time because of the unavailability of water, so by strengthening the external resources that are provided during this crucial time, we can help keep our children healthy and create a strong foundation that sets them on a positive trajectory.”

Clean Water and Sanitation as well as Good Health and Wellbeing represent goals number 6 and 3 respectively of the Sustainable Development Goals for which Jamaica is a signatory and an active partner in implementing.

The Sandals Foundation executive welcomes the program of the National Education Trust noting that “as Jamaica charts forward with its national targets to achieve these Sustainable Development Goals, it is imperative for every capable stakeholder to do what we can to promote the health and well-being of persons of all ages and to increase access to clean water.”

The National Education Trust’s Water Harvesting & Sanitation for Schools Project seeks to install systems within 344 schools that have been identified by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Information to be in critical need of water storage facilities.

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MEDIA CONTACT: 1-888-SANDALS, info@sandals.com

“Chill Like a Jamaican” is the island’s invitation to the world to slow down and enjoy

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Jamaica has long-held an outsized influence on global culture through entertainment, cuisine, sports and beauty. Always in search of larger-than-life experiences for its visitors, Jamaica has created an exciting new way to enjoy the island and visit its iconic spots. The content series “Chill Like a Jamaican” is the island’s invitation to the world to slow down and enjoy island time, first digitally and then by visiting Jamaica.

With consumers needing a break from this quarantine, Jamaican celebrities and local tourism leaders have come together to show fans how to “chill” with a Jamaican twist on food, fitness, cocktails, and more. The series follows Olympic Gold Medalist Shelly-Ann Fraser-Price, Master Blender Joy Spence of Appleton Estate, Pepa of the Grammy award-winning duo Salt-n-Pepa, Miss Jamaica World and Miss Jamaica Universe Yendi Phillips, and dancehall artist, BayC as they “chill.” 

“Each Chill Like a Jamaican video showcases Jamaica’s iconic offerings, reminding locals and visitors alike of their favorite experiences,” said Donovan White, Jamaica’s Director of Tourism. “Our vibrant culture takes center stage displaying what makes Jamaica the Heartbeat of the World.

The “Chill Like a Jamaican” video series is currently live across the Jamaica Tourist Board’s  Instagram and Facebook social media channels.

Jamaica opened its borders to international visitors for rest and relaxation on June 15. The island has implemented a comprehensive set of health and safety protocols to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus. While on island, travelers can expect an enhanced experience at hotels including digital check-in, hand sanitizer stations, elimination of self service at buffets, digital or single use menus, social distancing markers throughout the property and much more. To learn more, go to: www.visitjamaica.com/travelupdate   

About Jamaica Tourist Board 

The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), founded in 1955, is Jamaica’s national tourism agency based in the capital city of Kingston. JTB offices are also located in Montego Bay, Miami, Toronto and London. Representative offices are located in Berlin, Barcelona, Rome, Amsterdam and Mumbai.  

TripAdvisor® ranked Jamaica as the #1 Caribbean Destination and #14 Best Destination in the World in 2019. Also this year, the International Council of the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association (PATWA) named Jamaica the Destination of the Year and TravAlliance Media named JTB Best Tourism Board, and Jamaica as Best Culinary Destination, Best Wedding Destination and Best Honeymoon Destination. Additionally, the JTB has been declared the Caribbean’s Leading Tourist Board by the World Travel Awards (WTA) for thirteen consecutive years between 2006 and 2019. Jamaica also earned the WTA’s award for the Caribbean’s Leading Destination, Leading Cruise Destination and Leading Meetings & Conference Centre 2018 for the Montego Bay Convention Centre. Jamaica is home to some of the world’s best accommodations, attractions and service providers that have won several awards throughout the years.

For details on upcoming special events, attractions and accommodations in Jamaica go to the JTB’s Web site at www.visitjamaica.com or call the Jamaica Tourist Board at 1-800-JAMAICA (1-800-526-2422).  Follow the JTB on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and YouTube. View the JTB blog at www.islandbuzzjamaica.com.  

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Multipurpose Courts at Buckfield Playfeld Renovated to Serve St. Ann Residents

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The basketball and multi-purpose playing courts at Buckfield Playfield, located in the heart of Ocho Rios in Jamaica, have received a major facelift and renovations to better serve residents across the parish of St. Ann. Following an approximately US$50,000 investment from the Sandals Foundation, the center is better than ever.

The center has been a safe space for youths to spend their time and a major hub for hosting friendly games, sports competitions, and entertainment events. The upgraded facility now boasts a resurfaced basketball and multipurpose court with accompanying netball equipment, newly-constructed spectator stands, installed lights to improve night events and security, fencing, and colorful murals to brighten the space.

Director of Operations at the Sandals Foundation, Karen Zacca, says the project commenced in 2019 and has been a labor of love aligned with the Foundation’s commitment to community development and engaging youth through sports.

“Spaces that encourage sports bring residents together to play, build relationships, develop lifelong skills, and are important to the health of a community. Outside each of our immediate families, our communities help give us a sense of belonging, and the Sandals Foundation will always give high priority to creating safe spaces for our communities to thrive.”

Public Relations Manager at Sandals Ocho Rios Resort, Lyndsay Isaacs, who coordinated logistics says the team ensured to employ the skills of local contractors and laborers to execute the renovations.

“Projects that serve the community must also employ the services of the community. As much as is possible, the Foundation engages local professionals to engender a sense of ownership in the development process as well as to help support the livelihoods of those who are employed.”

The multiple murals, strategically positioned across the sports field, were drawn by local artist Zara and painted by Sandals Resorts guests and team members who volunteered during outreach activities before the onset of the coronavirus.

“This is a family affair for us, and the Sandals Foundation is the vehicle through which our resort guests, team members, travel agents, and partners get an opportunity to serve the communities in which we operate. I am very happy with the outcome of this project and have no doubt the people of St.  Ann will use it well.”

Ocho Rios resident basketballer, Dehalo Sappleton, says the renovated courts will help the local teams earn their stripes on their home ground.

“This kind of donation is greatly appreciated, and we will treat it like it’s our own. Some of the most talented basketballers come from Ocho Rios, and we often go to Kingston and Montego Bay to make our name. This renovated court now gives us the opportunity to make our name in our hometown.”

And, Kurt Dale, Sports Officer for the parish of St. Ann with the Institute of Sports, says the renovated facilities will help budding netballers hone their skills and develop the level of participation in the sport.

“We find that up to 50% of persons do not want to further their skills in netball, because they do not have facilities to play. A number of the girls have to travel a long distance to be able to play, but with courts like this readily available, it will be much easier for them to go out and participate.”

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MEDIA CONTACT: 1-888-SANDALS, info@sandals.com

New Ambulance to Boost Health Security for Visitors and Locals, says Bartlett

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Jamaica Tourism Minister, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, says the donation of a brand-new ambulance by the Tourism Enhancement Fund to the Negril Fire station will boost Jamaica health security for visitors and locals alike.

Speaking at the handing over ceremony on Friday (July 31, 2020), Minister Bartlett highlighted that: “Negril represents a very critical resort area that continues to add to Jamaica’s prestige as a destination and this donation of an ambulance will boost the health security that is needed for this growing town.

Visitors and locals will feel more confident moving around, as the response to health emergencies will be strengthened.”

The Minister spoke also to the importance of the assurance every destination needs to provide, that if something happens there is adequate resources to respond.

“This is what this ambulance will represent for the town of Negril, the assurance that in event of an emergency, the Emergency Medical Service (EMS) at the fire station will be able to respond and respond quickly,” said Minister Bartlett. 

The ambulance, valued at J$18million, will greatly assist the EMS department at the Negril Fire Station which has been without a working ambulance for the past eight months. The Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF) also provided an additional $7.6 million for the renovation of the fire station in the resort town.

“Last year we embarked on a strategy lead by my Permanent Secretary to reimagine the town of Negril and this forms part of that strategy to boost the resources required under the new destination plan,” concluded Minister Bartlett.

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MEDIA CONTACT: Jamaica Ministry of Tourism, Corporate Communications, 64 Knutsford Boulevard, Kingston 5, Tel: 920-4926-30, Fax: 920-4944

SMTEs Have Key Role to Play in Rejuvenating the Economy – Bartlett

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Jamaica Tourism Minister Hon. Edmund Bartlett says Small and Medium Tourism Enterprises (SMTEs), have a key role to play in reviving the economy, in the aftermath of the fallout caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Speaking recently at the virtual staging of the Tourism Ministry’s signature Christmas in July tradeshow, he said, “The Tourism Linkages Network through initiatives such as Christmas in July is playing a crucial role in this recovery process by stimulating well needed economic activity through partnerships.”

He stressed that “everyone has a role to play in rebuilding the economy and Christmas in July provides an avenue for suppliers to begin to earn again and do their part in rejuvenating the economy.”

Minister Bartlett underscored that assisting local suppliers to meet the demands of the tourism sector through the development of stronger linkages with other sectors, remains a top priority of the Tourism Ministry.

He said, “We remain committed to ensuring that the country’s domestic sectors are better able to supply the products and services that are the necessary inputs of the visitor’s experience.”

The Minister explained that “this is even more critical under the new dispensation brought about by COVID-19, which has put a strain on every sector of the economy, with an added burden on the tourism sector because it is by far the most reliable means of getting the national economy up and running again.”

Christmas in July is an exhibition of locally produced corporate gifts and souvenir items that will enable local entrepreneurs to benefit more from the linkage opportunities available in the tourism industry.

Participants over the years have been chalking up millions of dollars in sales through contracts negotiated at the event. “The 50 highest earners of Christmas in July 2019 made a combined total of J$9.2 million by participating in the event,” Minister Bartlett revealed.

Items on display this year, from 146 entrepreneurs, included locally produced art, fashion and accessories, processed foods, aromatherapy, and souvenirs such as desktop solutions and décor items that are available for purchase. The event also featured a ‘Style Jamaica’ fashion show which showcased apparel by several top local fashion designers.

The tradeshow is organized by the Tourism Linkages Network, a division of the Tourism Enhancement Fund, in partnership with Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO), Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA), Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC), Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA), Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA), and the Bureau of Standards.

A gift catalog of all participants and samples of their work will be made available at a later date.

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MEDIA CONTACT: Jamaica Ministry of Tourism, Corporate Communications, 64 Knutsford Boulevard, Kingston 5, Tel: 920-4926-30, Fax: 920-4944