PHOTOS BY JANET SILVERA PHOTOS Steel pan players at the Independence Day street event at Melia Braco Village.

Right: A stilt walker dressed to the nines in the Jamaican colours. Melia Braco dishes out the real J’can culture

Janet Silvera tyrant washerwoman, washing and dressed in the black, green and performance was bolstered by benchmarks of service and quality,” Senior Gleaner Writer hanging her clothes for the town to gold, the group opened with the Dance Xpressions, ‘dancehall at its Kosvogiannis told Hospitality see. country’s national anthem, a best’, and Ashe’s folkloric Jamaica. WESTERN BUREAU: Handing a large slice of the precursor to the a host of Jamaican presentation. According to the hotelier, OCUSED ON creating Jamaican culture on a platter, Festival hit songs that followed, The big-bottom mama, stilt “Independence stands to remind us unique experiences, Melia guests’ expectations were exceeded. one after the other. walkers and reggae artiste Romain that we are a nation that breaks FBraco Resort, Trelawny, Led by General Manager Dimitris A steel band added flavour to Virgo complemented an evening records, barriers and resiliently delivered on its commitment to Kosvogiannis, the hotel team took the event, and was a welcome that will remain etched in the overcomes challenges. We want raising the bar in the tourism the country’s Independence addition to the adaptation of the memories of guests for years to our guests to appreciate not the industry by setting new standards celebration to the apex. Trinidadian culture. Their come. cut-and-paste all-inclusive at their Independence celebration Heralded by the “We give you more, we package, but a true Jamaican last weekend. George give a new experience, a flash moment of With a packed house of Washington approach to Jamaican life”. foreigners and locals, Melia Braco Marching life, higher Proud of his team’s achievement, showcased the richest aspects of Band, Kosvogiannis said Melia has the Jamaican culture, giving its committed to raising the bar in the guests front-row seats to the industry, and, together with this island’s iconic attractions, its food, property, set new standards for the fashion, topography, music and country as a destination. customs. “We aim to break the glass The resort, which boasts a ceiling in all aspects; in training, Georgian-inspired architectural food preparation, quality of town square, constructed replicas products, and engagement of the of Fern Gully, a waterfall depicting local economy by forging the world-famous Dunn’s River relationships with small farming Falls, a corner shop stocked with entities that seek to elevate and bun and cheese, ‘tin mackerel’, Red progress,” said. Stripe and Guinness, with men At the same time, he said they playing dominoes close by and a The Jamaican fruitcake covered with the country’s colours. were proudly Jamaican. “At Melia,

2 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 Ardine Davis at the Middle Quarters-themed Alrick Johnson of Melia Braco serving roasted beef. food station serving peppered shrimp. we do things extraordinary, Chad Waugh and Judy Levy depicting the sensational, magical and without colonial dress form that ties in with the theme restraints. Melia Braco Village is of Melia Braco Village. an addiction, not a simple holiday.” Walking the talk, the diverse offerings, including the peanut, jelly coconut and cane vendors, had their place near a zinc fenced area, highlighting the ‘Gully/Gaza’ scene. The hotel touched on a bit of everything and its herb garden, displaying spices, trees and plants used for medicinal purposes, was a conversation piece. “Ginger, pimento, garlic, cinnamon, cocoa, coffee beans, noni, leaf of life, marijuana, tuna and three different types of mint The George Washington Marching Band and fever grass, were among the dancers. things on display,” said Acleish Pearson, activities manager. Artefacts, including a chimmey, mortar, the big-back 12-channel television, self- heating and coal-pot irons, coffee grinder, mug, goblets and face basin created their own Red Stripe corner shop. corner of history. Infusing the Jamaican taste with the international fare, the pasta station merged jerk and the natural spices with an Italian recipe. The shrimp station represented Middle Quarters, St Elizabeth, and the jerked products paid tribute to Portland. “We topped it off with cornmeal and potato pudding, dukunu, grater cake, coconut From left: Monica Serra, guest experience manager; Dimitris drops, and fruitcake,” said a very Kosvogiannis, general manager; Angella Bennett, director of The Jamaican artefacts on display on Independence Day at the pleased Pearson. sales; and Ann-Marie Burke, human resources manager. Melia Braco Village.

HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 3 CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS Gardeners Nerrod Fletcher (left) and Jeff Ottey cut the cake with Round Hill’s outgoing CFO, Tracy Christie-Smith. Farewell, Tracy! HE ROUND Hill team said farewell to chief financial officer Tracy TChristie-Smith last Thursday. After five years at the Hanover resort, Christie-Smith is migrating to Canada. Her farewell party was attended by members of From left: Patricia Henry-Hard, CFO at Tryall; Josef the Round Hill executive team, various Forstmayr, Round Hill’s managing director; William managers and staff members and Craig, Billy Craig Insurance; and Tracy Christie-Smith, representatives from corporate partners, including Billy Craig Insurance, National Round Hill’s outgoing CFO. Commercial Bank, and principal of the Montego Bay Community College, Dr Maureen Nelson. Villa owner Ed Falkenberg flew in from New York for the day to attend the send- off. Christie-Smith was lauded for her no- nonsense approach on the job and for implementing a number of successful initiatives within the company. According to Managing Director Josef Forstmayr, “Tracy was a firm but strong team player who provided leadership, resulting in our continued financial success as a resort. We wish her continued success in Canada.” Tracy Christie-Smith (centre) with members of her team (from left) Christie-Smith has been succeeded by Claudine Willoughby, Carolyn Warburton, Calvin Lewis, Sashalee From left: Villa owner, Ed Falkenberg and Christie- Novelette Maxwell. McIntosh and Blaine Grubb. Smith’s daughters, Samantha and Shona Smith.

4 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 Landmark Plaza, Mainland China Restaurant open in Ocho Rios Carl Gilchrist Hospitality Jamaica Writer AINLAND CHINA Restaurant and Bar, located Mat the new Landmark Plaza in Ocho Rios, is an absolute gem. So it was a double celebration last Thursday when owner Danny Galani welcomed guests to the opening of the plaza and the restaurant and bar, which boasts a fusion of Chinese, Indian, and Jamaican cuisine as its offering. Member of Parliament for North From left: Marilyn Burrowes of Dolphin Cove; Danny Galani, East St Ann and Minister of Social owner of Landmark Plaza; and Shahine Robinson, member of Security Shahine Robinson, who parliament and minister of social security. assisted in cutting the ribbon, thanked owner Danny Galani for the “It’s wonderful to see this addition Walters and Custos Emeritus investment, saying it was a show of to Ocho Rios, to see that there are Radcliffe Walters; Mayor Desmond confidence in Ocho Rios and in more options available to locals and Gilmore; Janice Carr, JPS parish Jamaica. visitors who come to the town. It manager; Supt Wayne Cameron, President of the St Ann Chamber certainly is a welcome addition,” commandant for St Ann; Bobby of Commerce, Pixley Irons, also Allen pointed out. Chatani; Lorna Escoffery; Marilyn hailed the opening of the plaza, “The development continues with Burrowes and family; representatives saying it means more employment for the addition of a gift shop for visitors, of the Indian High Commission and person in the parish. also an in-bond store; and it’s so Lachu Ramchandani of Blue Diamond. A section of Landmark Plaza. Not only were samplings of the perfectly placed without being food mouth-wateringly delicious, intrusive. I think it’s fantastic.” invited guests were left in awe at the The design of the building was also beauty of the restaurant, which had a talking point with architect Jeremy several features that left Vana Taylor, Millingen, coming in for much vice-president, Jamaica Hotel and commendation for the beautifully Tourism Association, remarking that designed structure. “it’s more than a restaurant, it’s an “Mainland China is the newest attraction. dining experience in Jamaica and the “It has blown me away! It’s simply most unique, offering hundreds of fabulous! It’s a wonderful addition to menu items, a full bar and a variety of our area, especially, Ocho Rios,” dining options. It is the place where Taylor told Hospitality Jamaica. you can find something for everyone, “And it has so much to offer, modern Chinese cuisine, authentic Chinese infused with Indian; and it’s Indian kebabs and local Jamaican such a romantic place.” dishes, all at a price that anyone can Her comments complimented afford,” Mark, the manager, those of Janice Allen, Jamaica Tourist explained. Board’s (JTB) regional director, who Among those who were in described the plaza as “fantastic”. attendance were Custos Norma

Chefs Nick and Chavelle.

HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 5 THE BUSINESS OF TOURISM

Is the Chinese tourism market illusory? HE CHINESE-VISITOR market is region, anyone visiting the Caribbean from significant numbers of Chinese arrivals would Against this background, and assuming that distinctly different from what the China or coming to join a cruise ship, has first be by cruise ship. the region has the capacity to address the quite TCaribbean is used to. Despite this, almost to fly to the nearest point. This means, for the China is currently gradually developing its different expectations and cultural every Caribbean tourist board has been giving most part, using Air China to Houston or New own cruise industry out into the Pacific, and is requirements of Chinese visitors – few want the consideration to the difficult question of how York, then travelling on with United or, planning to build its own cruise ships. However, usual Caribbean offering of sun, sea and sand – best to encourage its travellers to visit. alternatively, using Air China’s this is still some way off. part of the answer is likely to lie in paying much Apart from the obvious desire of all same-plane service from For this reason, some in the greater attention to a demand-led approach destinations to continue to diversify their source Beijing via Montreal to industry suggest that it may be that is likely to appeal to interests of high-end markets, the industry’s interest in the Chinese Havana. In each case, the more attractive to consider visitors, who also want the kudos of visiting travel market has been driven by statistics. overall flying time is at best working initially with the what they see as an obscure but culturally These suggest that China’s outward bound around 20 hours. United States and European different destination. travel market, one of the most dynamic in the This means that, currently, cruise lines that sail the region While the Caribbean is never going to be to market selected Caribbean world, is growing by around 19 per cent per the only practical able to compete for Chinese visitors with cruises. Many such cruise annum, with some 117 million Chinese citizens solution,when it comes to companies are already London, Paris or New York when it comes to travelling abroad in 2014, spending an encouraging land-based engaged with Chinese shopping or historic sightseeing – both key estimated US$500 billion. Chinese visitors to anywhere in counterparts in developing element in almost all Chinese international This has meant that, in particular, countries the Caribbean other than cruises off China’s coast. travel – there are almost certainly niche at the western end of the Caribbean – Jamaica, Havana, is to develop, as Regrettably, trying to opportunities to be developed. Cuba, The Bahamas and the Dominican Jamaica is now doing, multi- understand China’s tourism These include, for example, gambling, music, Republic – have to dedicate significant destination vacations for potential for the region is and, as St Lucia has recently recognised, horse resources to visiting and researching how best to Chinese, who may already have complicated by the racing. obtain a share of the market. decided to travel to Cuba. David Jessop uncertainty surrounding just My suspicion is that for many years yet, Unfortunately, to do so, it has first to The idea is now well how many Chinese people are Chinese tourism, in terms of numbers,will be overcome some very basic problems. China is a advanced, with the country’s Minister of actually visiting the region as tourists. illusory, not least because of the difficulties of long way away. This means that the primary Tourism Edmund Bartlett saying recently that It is far from clear how each country in the access. New initiatives and niche marketing challenge lies not in determining how best to he is hoping to have arrangements in place by region addresses statistically the significant may see a gradual rise in arrivals, but for me, attract Chinese visitors, but in having them the end of this year for multi-destination number of Chinese visiting the Caribbean in Chinese tourism seems likely to only become arrive in the region. marketing, airlift and possibly a single-visa relation to the many Chinese public and significant for the Caribbean at the point at Since, at present, there is not enough arrangement for Chinese and other visitors. private projects now under way across the which visitors begin to arrive on Chinese-built demand to fill direct regular flights to the The other potential initial source for region. and catered cruise ships.

6 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 ADVERTISEMENT HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 7 Big tourism dollars for Ja

HE GROWING tourism industry Tourism is a represents the most important Tform of economic activity in the Caribbean today, with earnings in excess sector that of US$27 billion, providing jobs for one “ of every five employed , and attracting has the just over 30 million visitors annually. From left: Delano Seiveright, senior adviser to the minister of Notably, too, 1.2 billion people traverse tourism; Andrew Holness, prime minister; and Deborah the globe annually, spending billions potential to Newland, chief of staff, Office of the Prime Minister. every year. These facts were not lost on the well- heeled global tourism investors, some of stimulate whom jetted into the island for a day of discussions at the Office of the Prime Minister and Vale Royal, the official wide-scale residence of the prime minister, where a private dinner reception with Prime Minister Andrew Holness, his wife, Mrs economic Holness, and Tourism Minister Edmund From left: Neil Evans of Karisma Hotels and Resorts; Juliet Holness, Bartlett was held. member of parliament and wife of Prime Minister Andrew Holness; and Dr activity, “The prime minister assured the Rafael Echevarne, chief executive officer, MBJ Airports Limited, share a investors of the Government’s resolve to moment at the dinner reception at Vale Royal. clear red tape so as to allow for smoother foster new investments, while reaffirming the Sunscape Resorts; Stephen Hunter, administration’s growth and prosperity president and CEO of Sunwing Travel agenda. At the same time, the tourism Group, operators of Royalton; Phillip growth in our minister reiterated the robust targets to CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS Hofer of Iberostar; Fernando Bosque secure five million visitors by 2021, Mohino, CEO of Grupo Aeroportuario generating US$5 billion in tourism From left: Rafael Feliz, CEO of Karisma Hotels and Resorts; Andrew Holness, prime minister; Edmund Bartlett, del Pacifico, the operators of the communities, earnings and increasing the total direct minister of tourism; Neil Evans, senior executive, Karisma Hotels and Resorts; and Ruben Becerra, vice- Sangster International Airport in jobs to 125,000 with no less than 15,000 president of Karisma Hotels and Resorts. Montego Bay; Ruben Becerra, Neil new rooms added,” said Delano Evans and Rafael Feliz of Karisma generate the Seiveright, a senior adviser to the Hotel and Resorts, among several From left: Lee Issa, chairman of Couples Resorts; Philipp Hofer minister of tourism. economic conditions of our people,” said hotels and resorts that have already Among the owners and executives others. jobs we need “Tourism is a sector that has the Seiveright. commenced development projects attending, many of whom stated that Local investors included Adam of Iberostar; and Edmund Bartlett, minister of tourism. potential to stimulate wide-scale In that vein, the talks with Holness and/or plan further expansion in room they have never had this level of close Stewart of Sandals Resorts economic activity, foster new growth in and Bartlett resulted in investments to stock shortly are Riu, Bahia Principe, engagement with a prime minister and International; Richard Byles of Jewel so badly, and Sandals, Royal Decameron, Royalton, other government officials, were Luis Resorts and Hilton Rose Hall; Lee and our communities, generate the jobs we the tune of more than US$1 billion From left: Luis Riu, CEO of Riu need so badly, and earn billions of dollars being discussed, inclusive of timelines Spanish Court, the Hendrickson-owned Riu of Riu Hotels & Resorts; Guy Paul Issa of Couples Resorts; Stephen Hotels & Resorts; Edmund Bartlett, in foreign exchange. The Government is with several thousand new hotel rooms Wyndham, Half Moon, Karisma, Hilton Steuart, chairman of Half Moon; Facey of Pan-Jam; Chris Blackwell of earn billions positioning tourism to become a powerful on stream to start operations in the Rose Hall, Secrets, among several Alejandro Zozaya, CEO of Apple Island Outpost; and Christopher Issa, minister of tourism; and Prime catalyst for improving the socio- coming months and years. Among the others. Leisure Group, operators of Secrets and among several others. Minister Andrew Holness. of dollars in From left: Dr Rafael From left: Stephen Facey, chairman and Echevarne, chief foreign chief executive officer of Pan-Jamaican executive officer, MBJ Investment Trust; Christopher Blackwell of Airports Limited; John Island Outpost; Edmund Bartlett, minister exchange. Lynch, chairman of the of tourism; Chris Jarrett of the Jamaica Jamaica Tourist Board; Hotel and Tourist Association; Andrew and Fernando Bosque Holness, prime minister; Kevin Mohino, CEO of Grupo Hendrickson, hotelier; Richard Byles, Aeroportuario del president and chief executive officer of Pacifico, owners of Sagicor Group Jamaica; Adam Stewart, Prime Minister Andrew Holness (centre) and Tourism Minister MBJ Limited, the chief executive officer and deputy Edmund Bartlett present a copy of ‘Beautiful Jamaica’ to Guy operators of the chairman of Sandals Resorts International; Steuart III, chairman of Half Moon Bay Ltd, owners of the 400- Sangster International and Christopher Issa, hotelier. room upscale Half Moon in Montego Bay. Airport in Montego Bay.

8 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 ” 9 Martin Maginley JTB announces promotional team for Europe THE JAMAICA Tourist Board (JTB) has appointed Interface Tourism, Italy and Interface Tourism, Spain as the sales and promotional agencies for Destination Jamaica in Italy and the Iberian Peninsula. The JTB has also selected GrafensteinFreizeit-und Tourismuswerbug GmbH to drive sales in Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Poland. Dennis Tourism Director Paul Pennicook McIntosh explained that the selection of these firms is strategic to the JTB’s growth agenda. “In an effort to continue to diversify our source markets, we recently appointed new representatives in a region where we are going for growth. The agencies were selected based on their track records and their work FILE PHOTOS plans to increase arrivals from their The Rousseau sisters at The Brooklyn Kitchen in New York. respective markets.” Commenting on his agency’s selection, general director of Interface Tourism, Spain, Victor Muñoz, explained that “Jamaica is a Jamaica’s food ambassadors ... destination and brand recognised worldwide. It perfectly embodies the idea of a natural and cultural paradise, which, along with a unique lifestyle, are strong motives for Spanish and Portuguese travellers in Tantalising taste buds choosing their vacations throughout the year”. ENTHUSIASTIC ABOUT PROSPECTS Serena Valle, managing director of around the world Interface Tourism, Italy, was equally enthusiastic about Jamaica’s prospects in the HE POPULARITY of Jamaican continues to tantalise the palates of his Growing up in a family with a deep Italian market. cuisine has grown tremendously guests with authentic Jamaican fare, appreciation for good food, and being “Jamaica is an island with a very strong Twith the opening up of many affirming that what’s uniquely Jamaican surrounded by fresh ingredients, Michelle personality. It is multi-faceted and able to Jamaican restaurants across North can pass anywhere in the world. and Suzanne Rousseau were introduced to meet the needs of the most discerning self- America and Europe. Jamaican chefs have Chef Dennis McIntosh grew up in Nest the culinary world very early in life. Not made travellers, as well as tourists who are successfully blended cooking techniques, Castle, a small community in St Thomas. only chefs, they are also the authors of looking for a relaxing, dream paradise spices and recipes to contribute to one of At age eight, he and members of his family Caribbean Potluck: Modern Recipes destination.” the most flavourful cuisines in the world. migrated to England. During his early from Our Family Kitchen. The book is a Founder and Director of Grafenstein- Some of our outstanding chefs who years, he developed a deep appreciation compilation of the stories of their lives in Freizeit-und Tourismuswerbug GmbH, Frank continue to fly the epicurean flag high are for the art of fine cuisine and later the food business. Both sisters have Grafenstein, said his agency was keen on chefs Martin Maginley, Dennis McIntosh, enrolled in the Henley College to study catered an impressive roster of events, inspiring special tour operators to sell and Suzanne and Michelle Rousseau. culinary arts. McIntosh set about creating including weddings for Hollywood Jamaica. The multi-award-winning chef Maginley his culinary path by working in Germany, actresses Drew Barrymore and Reese “There is a lot to discover. Our special has enriched the culinary experience for England, the United States and Bermuda, Witherspoon, as well as dinner for interest topics and insider tips are ideal for many, having worked at four- and five-star before returning to Jamaica in 1990 to Charles, Prince of Wales.The two sisters group tours and specialised tour operators,” hotels in Jamaica and Canada. He is take up his first executive chef position. A opened their first restaurant, Ciao Bella, Grafenstein explained. Interface Tourism, Spain, Interface currently the executive chef at Round Hill standard-bearer for Jamaican cuisine, in 1996, which evolved from a café to a Tourism, Italy, and GrafensteinFreizeit-und Villas and Spa. Maginley has appeared on McIntosh has appeared on the Food fine-dining experience. They also Tourismuswerbug GmbH will represent ‘The Today Show’, Fox 5 Morning Show Network Channel, and in 2012, he was designed the menu at Usain Bolt’s Track Jamaica on two-year contracts. The JTB is and others, performing live the guest chef in Brussels, Belgium, at the and Records. The Rousseau sisters have represented in the Netherlands and Belgium definitely made it their point of duty to demonstrations, and has been featured in request of the Jamaican Embassy for the by Color Travel Services. The agencies will publications such as Food & Wine and 50th year of Independence celebrations. showcase Jamaican cuisine to the world. liaise primarily with tour operators, travel Caribbean Travel & Life. Chef Maginley As president of the Culinary Federation of These are just some of the Jamaican agents and airlines in their respective was instrumental in the creation of the Jamaica, he is paying it forward by food ambassadors who continue to make markets, but will also offer communications highly successful ‘Epicurean Escape’, in providing opportunities and exposure their mark in the culinary world with use and public relations support. association with Food & Wine. He young chefs. of our bold flavours and passion.

10 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 Sandals Resorts Int’l launches phone app SANDALS RESORTS International is thrilled to announce that its newly developed phone application is now available for download in iPhone and Android app stores. Through the new app, consumers will be able to browse the company’s multiple properties to help facilitate pre-arrival and on- property luxury-included vacation planning, all while receiving inside scoop information. Once on property, guests can register in the app to receive special notifications and information about resort shop promotions, daily entertainment, fitness and watersport schedules, weekly weather forecasts, Island Routes excursions, Red Lane Spa menu listings, restaurant details and hours, as well as resort maps. The Sandals App will also give guests the opportunity to book a Montego Bay Convention complimentary photo shoot with snapshots/EPIX, communicate with their butlers via text or calls, and call the US and Canada for free. Centre to host CanEx Ja Additionally, all of Sandals and Beaches social media channels can be accessed through the AMAICA’S FIRST cannabis seminar, Centre are extremely pleased to be the host available within this industry and which application. dedicated to shaping the future of the local venue for CanEx Jamaica. A core part of our Jamaica is yet to exploit. We congratulate Jcannabis market, is set to be held at the platform is the development of Jamaica Phase two of the application, to Douglas Gordon and his business partners for be launched in 2017, will give Montego Bay Conference Centre. Now is an through the meetings and conference market organising this conference, bringing important guests the opportunity to book opportune time as amended legislation has as an economic arm for Jamaica,” she said, players together and raising the visibility of services at the Red Lane Spa, transformed the legal global cannabis market adding that the event bolstered that initiative, cannabis as another economic driver that can into a burgeoning one and is having an impact excursions with Island Routes, as well as furthered the discussion on a support growth in agriculture and medicine in on the local market as well. burgeoning industry within the economy. restaurant reservations, multiple Jamaica,” Henry said. CanEx Jamaica is a unique one-day According to Guise, the Montego Bay service offerings with Last year alone, legal cannabis sales conference that will focus on the North Convention Centre is adequately suited to Snapshots/EPIX, updated maps American, Latin American, and Caribbean deliver on all facets of this dynamic increased by 25 per cent to reach US$6.7 with navigation capabilities, and cannabis landscape with key insight for those conference. “We are looking forward to billion in total US sales alone. The legal have a more enhanced social media looking to invest in and be an integral part of hosting all our guests both regionally and cannabis market is forecasted to hit a integration with Instagram, the burgeoning market. The seminar will host internationally,” she pointed out. tremendous US$21.8 billion in total annual Facebook, Twitter, TripAdvisor, and an international speaker line-up and showcase sales by 2020. As Jamaica develops a YouTube. state-of-the-art grow facilities, technology, OPPORTUNITY FOR NETWORKING framework for legalisation and regulation, its Excited about the launch of the branding, and political advocacy measures as The seminar is also expected to provide long-established brand recognition means that app, Adam Stewart, chief executive well as high-level content on the latest unrivalled networking opportunities among the island already has a head start in officer of Sandals Resorts advances in the regulatory, legal, investment, the policymakers, strategic influencers and establishing a world-class legalised cannabis International, said: “We are thrilled and product development landscape. Through decision makers shaping the industry and industry. to announce the launch of our new access to players and decision makers in the a distinguished panel of experienced and Scheduled speakers include Boaz Wachtel, app. We’re always looking for new innovative experts shaping the future of the Caribbean, LATAM, and North America. co-strategist, Israel’s Medical Cannabis ways to use technology to enhance global cannabis market, the seminar will give Gloria Henry, Montego Bay Chamber of Programme; Professor Asseem Sappal Dean, our guests’ experience, and this app first-hand insight into the most cutting-edge Commerce president, is elated to host the is another exciting medium that market innovations and technologies. event in the city. Oaksterdam University; Edmund Bartlett, allows us to do just that. I’m The convention centre is happy to be “The chamber supports the development of minister of tourism, Jamaica; Mark Kleiman, looking forward to seeing our hosting such an event, which is sure to get the legal use of cannabis for medicinal and chairman, BOTEC Analysis; Marcus guests and consumers at large significant international support, stated the related purposes. The chamber endorses this Richardson, CEO, Cannabinoid Research and engaging with the platform, and we facility’s general manager, Dittie Guise. conference, which will further expose the Development; and Tamar Todd, legal director, can’t wait to launch phase two.” “We at the Montego Bay Convention tremendous investment opportunities Drug Policy Alliance.

HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 11 Beautifully crafted cushion covers by Sharon Martini. Sharon’s wacky art

ER SPIRIT told her, “Go smiling suddenly. Martini explains tell, whether it is personal, home to your roots!” And it, saying ,“even if you are not historical or spiritual. One such Hthat she did. shopping, I guarantee you a smile!” piece that resonates is the cacoon Settling in Treasure Beach, St The Mud Palace Gallery houses gathered from the forests of Elizabeth, a place she discovered creations made by the utilisation of Accompong. These seeds were while on a pilgrimage of sorts to ancient African techniques using naturally used for protection, food Accompong to explore her Maroon wattle and daub or sticks and dirt. and medicine. Martini reflects that heritage, artistic diva Sharon These practices are often times when working with the cacoon, she Martini is proprietor of The Mud combined with contemporary is reminded of the power and might Palace Gallery Africa Village, home practices to create extra-special of the Jamaican people of African of her Lady Bird Designs. The works of art. descent. gallery features one-of-a-kind art, BOOKS FOR CHILDREN A veritable one-of-a-kind craft, goodies and gifts that are all woman, Martini is part sorcerer, A creator of her own brand, hand-made by Martini. alchemist and visionary who dares Martini has cascading from the Step inside to a cheery to unwrap the universe’s gifts in “Welcome to my Mud Palace rafters, T-shirts adorned with her her own truth and to share them Gallery where everything inside – ‘Soil A Jamaica’ logo and the with the world. No doubt, she has well except plastic and iron – is symbols of fertility and good come home to her roots, immersing made by me.” fortune. The T-shirts are all hand- herself in the soil, she is rooted, Born in London to Jamaican dyed with the red soil of St parents, Martini lived in the States Elizabeth for a more unique and blooming, creating and crafting. for 20 years before answering the distinct look. One would say “she a buss out!” call to come home. Martini Martini also caters to the If you like art, visit The Mud describes herself and her art as Sharon Martini, proprietor of The Mud Palace Gallery. younger audience by creating her Palace Gallery Africa Village, being a combination of first- and own line of children picture books Treasure Beach, St Elizabeth, and if developing-world styles. Martini reflects, “It made me whose muse are black characters, called DottyBeetle books. Her you are lucky, you might just find “It is ancient and modern, old proud, nonetheless, to be like my that swing along the whitewashed reason for creating this line of work Martini elbow-deep in a mud- and young, whimsical, wise and grandmother, whom at the time, I wall, hand-crafted jewellery dangle is, as she states, “When my sons patty-filled Yabba pot, creating a fun.” had never met. Imagine if I had from twigs; original, acrylic-painted were little, I was immersed in master piece. Growing up, she remembers known the true story? I might now magnets and buttons shine from children’s literature, but my little The Mud Palace Gallery hearing her parents say she was a walk on water.” She adds, “My converted fans; art-embellished boys were not represented in Africa Village, Treasure Beach, maroon like her grandmother. Not parents did not share our story; hipster bags and pillows stuffed contemporary stories with St Elizabeth, may be contacted at knowing what this meant, she with each of my pieces, my aim is with love. Instinctively, you know imaginative, wacky art, so I wrote www.sharonmartini.com assumed it was the shade of her to ensure the tale is told.” you have entered a magical and and illustrated my own.” [email protected], or skin that was being referenced. The gallery boasts paintings, mystical place because you are All her pieces have a story to 876-275-0832.

12 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 AROUND JA WITH PAUL H

The flames have long died, but these pieces can tell the hell they have The enamelled collection. The stories of their time are been through. Right: With tickets in etched in their dents, scratches and chips. hand, Marja Morrison-Gallow is anxious to travel back to the past. A rush of memories AM always fascinated by things from the past, especially the ones that existed Ilong before me. They have so much to tell. The ones that I can personally relate to are no less interesting. They remind me of where I am coming from, and keep me grounded. And on Friday last, I strolled on to the grounds of the Independence Village at Hope Road, St Andrew. There was much food to sink my teeth into, but I opted for coconut water, lemonade and naseberries. I also got some fever grass mosquito repellant, lest those pesky insects sink their needles into my tender flesh. There was also much to see, but nothing really exciting. Boredom was beginning to consume me, until I found myself in front of the Jamaica National Heritage Trust booth. There were tables full of objects from the past, from my childhood, and many decades before that. Richard O’Connor, Jamaica National Heritage Trust’s The enamelled articles brought back archaeological field assistant, showing a patron how to grind cocoa beans. PLEASE SEE MEMORIES, 14

HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 13 MEMORIES CONTINUED FROM 13

much sensory memories. I heard the sound of flaking enamel as if it were just yesterday when that big mug fell, many times. I also felt the heat of the hot chocolate, with the oil on top, in the enamelled mug. Scorched gums, hot ‘chocolate tea’. But these articles were strange. They looked smooth and glossy when they were new, but they became unsightly over time because of chips and scratches and dents. And so, it was not pride anymore to own a ‘chip-up’ enamelled item. I also remembered that Miss Rhoda, an elderly, cantankerous neighbour, had a big ‘chip-up’ chimmy when I saw some chamber pots on display. But I rather let the chamber pot stories remain in the annals of time. Moving on to the clothes irons, including the self-heating ones that were popular among tailors. Unlike the regular irons that were put over the burning coal, the coal was placed into the self-heaters, so they remained hot. No need to keep reheating. Stories of these irons abound – of when my white shirts and khaki got soiled by them, grief, when I was hurrying and they could not get hot fast enough; when they were too hot, and I had to wait, or burned the cloth leaving a permanent triangular mark, more grief; or when the coal got burned out before I am finished ironing. The lamps, lanterns and kerosene stoves shed much light into those dark nights of yesteryear. The narratives they illuminated, the joys and the sorrows, the feasts and the famines. And there is one particular story of the kerosene stove, of which I give no details, that is forever etched in my brain. After taking pictures and chatting with other patrons, and was about to leave, I saw a book, lit up by rays of sunlight. My eyes popped. It was a Nola book, as we children called it then, from The Island Readers series. This one was Primer Three, Nola at Play. It was a basics/primary-school reader, whose main characters were Nola and Don. I have seen many a student get beaten when they struggled to read their Nola books. I could read, but I shook my head for my former classmates whose skin burned from the angry spanking by impatient, mean-spirited and unsympathetic ‘teachers’. In retrospect, I wish I had kept some of these personal objects for my archives, but we were not socialised to keep records and preserve the things we used in our daily lives. As soon as they had become old and useless, they were tossed into the garbage heaps of life. Nothing saved for posterity, nothing to tell our descendants about who we were, nothing to precipitate a rush of memories, pleasant and unpleasant. Now, they must rest. Travelling bags of yesteryear.

Who had their last supper in these? Bowl, mug, They can tell about the days and nights when tankard, wine bottle, platter and teapot. kerosene was king. Chamber pots for the ages.

14 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 It was by chance that Milton Brown of Mount Rosser in St Catherine became a An assortment of coconut fronds hats made by Milton ‘Hattie’ Brown. make of coconut frond hats. A hatter by chance

Paul H. Williams us, so dis mawnin, show mi, God, how fi start Hospitality Jamaica Writer dis, enuh.’” Shortly after, he put some of the fronds to OME TIME in 1986, young soak in water. When they became pliable, he Milton Brown, a farmer of SEwarton, St Catherine, was attempted three times to start the process, planting flowers for a friend when but failed. But he was determined, and upon a man acquainted with that the fourth attempt, he got it right. Jubilation! friend turned up. Yet, he was only able to make the rim of a The man was making hat; he did know how to make the top. something artistic from He wore the visor around the community, coconut fronds. Brown’s and caught the attention of people who interest was piqued, complimented his rare creation. But he was because he said he had still not satisfied. He wanted something with always loved craft. He a top. asked the man to show An acquaintance told him the process was him how to do what he A church hat. simple, and so, he said, he was forced to was doing. The man come up with the technique. He returned obliged. home, and he said he went into deep Brown learned quickly, thoughts. About a week after, the idea and he said the man was eventually came. He would make the top amazed. But, he did not show and the rim separately and then weave them Brown how to start the process. together. He got it right, after several trials. It was after he had left that Brown And he has been making hats since then. realised that, but he had never seen Recently, when Hospitality Jamaica the man before, and he has not seen chanced upon ‘Hattie’, as he is now called, him since. He said, with a broad smile, he had an array of coconut frond hats, some that the man was like “an angel”. of which he embellished with other parts of He saw where he could the coconut tree. There is the ‘Kangol’, the make a living making visor, the church hat, the Chinese conical, items with the coconut The oriental look. fronds. the traditional straw hat, the kufi (African- But frustration set inspired), and the topless sunshade. He has in initially. He did not A few months into his frustration, he said mastered the art of making coconut frond know how to start one Sunday morning he got some fronds; he hats, it seems. the process and his wanted to make something with them, but His biggest challenge, Brown said, is to friend would not take still did not know where to start. So, in his find a regular market, as hat-making is one of The African him to see the man desperation, he sent up a prayer. the things he does to make a living, as well as prince. even after several “A sey, ‘God, yuh know mi nuh have nuh selling fruits along the Mount Rosser main requests. trade, enuh, an’ yuh promise to provide for road in St Catherine.

HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 15 Sport tourism summit for World Travel Market London NEW GLOBAL sport recent years, with WTM London tourism summit will be championing its cause at the annual Alaunched at World Travel event. We are extremely excited to Market (WTM) London 2016, the announce the establishment of this leading global event for the travel major Global Sport Tourism industry, in association with sport Summit for 2016 and working with tourism company W2 Consulting. WTM London on this significant Taking place on the first day of WTM London (Monday, November summit. Sporting events are 7), the inaugural Global Sport continually in the headlines, Tourism Summit at WTM London offering huge opportunities to the will showcase the burgeoning host destination and tourism worldwide sport-tourism sector and stakeholders. The Global Sport provide a platform for destinations, Tourism Summit at WTM London events, academics, and respected will hear from international experts professionals in the field to discuss how destinations can exploit the best practices and future trends. potential available in what is the Following a summer of sport – fastest-growing sector in global with the European football championships in France and the tourism and win bids for major Olympics in Rio – the summit will global events.” feature keynote speakers from WTM London is the event where across the world to debate one of the travel and tourism industry the fastest-growing tourism conducts its business deals. Buyers industry segments. 3. Global Sport Tourism Awards decorated international rugby union bidding for major sporting events in from the WTM Buyers’ Club have The summit will have three key at WTM London – Award star who played for Ireland and the part due to the exposure and the a combined purchasing strands: presentations honouring excellence British and Irish Lions. positive impact it can have on the responsibility of US$22.6 billion 1. Sport Tourism Summit – in a range of categories including Simon Press, senior director, destination’s tourism industry. (£15.8b) and sign deals at the event Presentations from key figures, destinations, marketing, events, and World Travel Market London, said: Teaming up with W2 Consulting worth US$3.6 billion (£2.5b). events, destinations, and experts, charities. “I am delighted WTM London will means we will have top-flight WTM London 2016 will be along with networking The summit will be hosted by be hosting the inaugural Global speakers, insightful debates, and opportunities. WTM London in partnership with Sport Tourism Summit and Awards. astute analysis to help attendees get revamped as a three-day event from 2. Sport Tourism Data – Launch sport tourism consultancy W2 Sport tourism is an increasingly the most out of the summit.” November 7-9, with opening hours of the Annual Sport Tourism Consulting, which was founded by important segment within the travel Wood added: “The sport tourism from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. for all three Monitor 2016. Mark O’Connell and Keith Wood, a industry, with countries and cities sector has grown significantly in days.

UNWTO boss to make first-ever appearance at CTO conference SECRETARY GENERAL of the United fulfils our mandate to make leaders of the recovers. When we look at issues that tourism; hotel and airline executives; travel Nations World Tourism Organization global tourism industry accessible to our affect public health, security, terrorism, agents; students; the media; and persons (UNWTO)Taleb Rifai, head of the United members, to share information with us and economic shocks, all of these things affect directly and indirectly involved in tourism. Nations agency responsible for the exchange ideas on how to resolve issues the success and the sustainability of the It is preceded by CTO business meetings, promotion of responsible, sustainable and challenges, and how to take advantage tourism sector,” the CTO secretary general including meetings of the board of tourism, will make his first-ever of opportunities in tourism, globally,” Riley added. directors and the Council of Ministers and appearance at a Caribbean Tourism said. The session takes place from 9:45 a.m. to Commissioners of Tourism. Organization (CTO) event when he During the session titled ‘No Place For 11 a.m. on Friday, September 16, A number of other presenters have been presents at the State of the Tourism The Status Quo’, the tourism leaders will immediately following the feature address confirmed for SOTIC, which will explore Industry Conference (SOTIC) next month. delve into factors such as changing by Craig Landry, president of Air Canada subjects ranging from how to transition the Rifai will be joined by president of the demographics and attitudes, which drive Leisure Group. World Travel and Tourism Council the tourism industry into a state of constant The State of the Tourism Industry product and multicultural and emerging (WTTC) David Scowsill and CTO transition, and how to continuously align Conference, which has as its theme markets to create a luxury experience. Secretary General Hugh Riley on a panel to the product to consumers’ tastes. ‘Honouring Our Legacy, Defining Our This year’s conference at the Hilton discuss how to pilot an industry through a “There really is no status quo in the Future’, is the pre-eminent tourism Barbados Resort is organised in perpetual state of flux. tourism sector. Things are constantly gathering in the region. It brings together collaboration with Barbados’ Ministry of “The commitment of the UNWTO and changing. It’s a dynamic industry. It’s tourism decision-makers, including Tourism and International Transport and the WTTC to participate in this conference vulnerable to external shocks, but it always ministers, commissioners, and directors of Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc.

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