Graphic designer Joleen Grant did what designers do best – CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS create her own African-inspired The team that plays together stays together! Team members from Sandals Resorts International turned out in fine style on jewellery and shoes just for this Monday, February 26, to enjoy a private viewing of the blockbuster hit, ‘Blank Pather’. From left: Jonique Gaynor, Marcelles Lee, occasion. We say the girl’s got Sheryl Douse, Megan Martin, Staschell Fraser, Crissano Dalley, Daniella Allen, Joleen Grant and Nadine Dennis. skills, what say you? Sandals treats staff to private ‘Black Panther’ viewing Resort company rents theatre to say thank you to team F ALL work and no play later, expressing gratitude for the makes Jack and Jill dull, it’s gesture and reliving their Isafe to say there are no dull favourite movie moments. team members at Sandals Resorts Carmen Prout, company International, especially recently administrator, said, “This was when the company treated over such a kind gesture from the 100 staff members to a private senior executives and a good showing of the highly anticipated reminder that in the midst of a and much-celebrated Marvel hard work week, team members film, Black Panther. can actually take a break. The company, which has long Normally, in the corporate world had a tradition of celebrating its this would be considered an team members and investing in Wakanda Forever! Team members from the company’s unlikely act, but Sandals made it their development, rented a the- Accounts and Auditing departments were obviously having a a reality. This will forever be atre at the Palace Multiplex and good time at the private viewing of the hit Marvel film, ‘Black etched in my mind.” treated the team from its head- Panther’. In front with his best ‘Wakanda Forever’ pose is Her excitement and gratitude quarters to a night at the movies, Andy Roberts, while from left are Cordilyn Heaven, Yanique popcorn included, as a gesture of was shared by Cassandra Dou- Bailey, Sherifa Brown and Audi Cunningham. glas, local purchasing agent at appreciation for their hard work Gimmi mi African princess! These and commitment to the brand. Both were in the Turks and This is a great movie for us to see the company’s Procurement Division. She said, “This was a ladies from the company’s Procurement The event was dubbed ‘A Night Caicos Islands at the company’s together”, he said. “Tonight we Division pulled out all the stops and celebrate you ... tonight we very good idea. It brought in Wakanda’. annual general managers’ meet- were dressed to the nines to view the In a video message played to ing. DaCosta urged the team to celebrate you being here with us everyone together and it really the team, the company’s chief enjoy the night’s offerings, citing as great team members who go felt like a family affair. I was even hit film ‘Black Panther’ at Sandals’ pri- operations officer, Shawn the gesture as just one of the above and beyond every day. We telling someone who works at an vate staff viewing at the Palace DaCosta, apologised for his ways the company chose to show appreciate you,” he said. overseas hotel about it and she Multiplex on February 26. From left are absence and that of the chief its appreciation. “We wish we Excited team members raved was amazed that our company Vensea Hudson, Shantoya Fraser and executive officer, Adam Stewart. could have been there tonight. about the night’s event days did this for us.” Leccian Rowe.

2 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 2018 Make way for the ‘brothers and sisters’ Big push for African American tourists Camille Miller Bartlett added that in addition to Eight-five per cent live in urban Hospitality Jamaica Writer booking advertising spots in the centres, mostly the top 20 metro mainstream media, extra effort is areas. The African American medi- OR DECADES, tourism over- being made to target minority an age is 30, some six years younger seas interests have been frus- groups. than the total US population. tratingly noting that Jamaica F “There is a vast African Ameri- has not being doing enough to tap MORE IMPROVEMENT NEEDED can market out there, along with into the 35-million strong African other minority groups, that we Bartlett added that Jamaica’s American market. need to capitalise on,” the tourism share of the huge United States According to them, the island, minister noted. “We need to appeal market, while showing signs of with its rich diverse culture and to their passion points. We need to rapid improvement over the past world-class attractions, has been get our message of being the friend- year or so, is still too low and that a “missing the boat” by “seemingly liest and most relaxed destination telling and more organised effort is and foolishly” concentrating in the region to their doorsteps.” being made in going after minority almost exclusively on an already- A United States Census Report groups, including those with special clustered and competitive shows the African American popu- needs. “white-only market”. lation at 34,658,190, representing Andrew Young, a former United Well, that appears likely to over 12.3 per cent of the total States ambassador and former change! amount of persons living within the mayor of Atlanta, in a visit to Minister of Tourism Edmund continental USA. Jamaica as guest of the St Ann Bartlett, who is currently on a Almost half (43 per cent) are Chamber of Commerce several CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS European trip, told Hospitality homeowners, and nearly one years ago, raised the view then Black American tourists. Jamaica that the Jamaica Tourist quarter (23 per cent) hold that the “vast and untapped” Board (JTB) has been aggressively bachelor’s degrees or higher from African American market could Mexico,” Young pointed out. “If These are new opportunities for us using social media and other pro- US universities. As consumers, greatly enhance the tourism you put your ads where African to build on our product,” he added. motional means to “make a strong African Americans spend over fortunes of Jamaica. Americans can see them, I The tourism minister said tourists push” for what he readily admits is $500 billion annually, or a house- “The African American market, guarantee you will start usually have the innate desire to be a very lucrative, but vastly hold average of $23,442. African which is 35-million strong, is seeing results.” pampered and that “there is no place bigger than both Canada and untapped market. Americans are also no longer rural. United States Congresswoman in the world that does it better than Yvette Clarke, in a recent visit to Jamaica. Jamaica as guest of the Montego “We have an opportunity to go Chamber of Commerce, agreed. after these niche markets,” he She pointed to the fact that a lot of added. “We have to ensure that we Jamaicans are living in the United get our message out there in an States and that they should be used as part of the marketing tool to effective way so people can under- infiltrate the African American stand that Jamaica is the place to market. feel all right. If this is done right, there is no telling what our growing NEW OPPORTUNITIES potential could be.” Bartlett, in noting that “persons The African American travel to fulfil their passion,” is in community is also said to travel full agreement with the US officials. twice as often on packaged tours as “There are also a set of young the general population and they are people who travel all over the world led by the 2,500 travel planner to participate in activities such as members of the African American city runs and other health activities. Travel Conference. This market is There are also persons with open to new destinations and they disabilities who simply want a place book with the travel industry to go where they can relax and suppliers they meet and build where people are nice and caring. relationships with.

HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 2018 3 WENTY-ONE semi-finalists will vie for the Tourism Service Excellence TAwards (TSEA) later this month when the awards ceremony will be held. TPDCo announces 2017 The announcement and presentation of the qualifiers was conducted last month at the Marriott Courtyard Hotel in Kingston by the award’s implementing agency, the Tourism Service Excellence Tourism Product Development Company Limited (TPDCo). The 10 individual and 11 organisation qualifiers were selected from 126 nominees Awards semi-finalists and cover the regions of Ocho Rios, Negril, Kingston, the south coast, and Montego Bay. Ranging over various categories within the industry, including accommodation, ground transportation, attractions, and the craft industry, the semi-finalists were selected by a panel of judges through a series of evaluations and interviews. Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett in a video presentation, underscored the importance of creating a unique and responsive brand, which, he posited, is achieved through excellent service. “Service excellence is everything in today’s global tourism environment. The way a product or service is delivered to a visitor can make or break a destination. This is why I am passionate about building a service- excellence culture within the tourism sector and its value chain. I want to see Jamaica positioned as a globally competitive destination that provides quality service way CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS beyond our visitors’ expectations,” he said. Dr Andrew Spencer (third left), executive director, Tourism Product Development Company Limited (TPDCo), and He went further to say that the TSEA Dr Carrole Guntley (fourth left), chairperson for the Tourism Service Excellence Awards (TSEA) Committee, pose along- serves as a mechanism to develop the side the 2017 TSEA semi-finalists for the individual category. From left: Kevin Spence, Beaches Negril; Judy Henry country’s tourism offerings. “To maintain the Richards, Beaches Resort, Ocho Rios; Shanique Cunningham, Sandals Royal, Montego Bay; Janette Kaloo, Sunset high service quality for which Jamaica is Resorts and Villas, South Coast; Lennox Williams, Golden Eye Hotel, Ocho Rios; Winston Jones, Hyatt Ziva Hyatt Zilara, renowned, we sought to incentivise the Montego Bay; Hopeton Powell, Olde Craft Market, Ocho Rios; Michelle Sterling, Amstar DMC, Montego Bay; Romaine sector through the introduction of the Meggo, Sandals Negril, and Mikhailla Robinson, Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, Kingston. TSEA. Events such as these, which recognise and reward shining examples of tourism The semi-finalists for the individual cate- excellence, are important to the industry. They gory are Kevin Spence, Beaches Negril; Judy raise the bar in terms of enhancing the visitor experience and reinforce the value of our Henry Richards, Beaches Resort-Ocho Rios; tourism workers and the sector.” Shanique Cunningham, Sandals Royal-Mon- tego Bay; Janette Kaloo, Sunset Resorts and IMPORTANCE OF HUMAN CAPITAL Villas, South Coast; Lennox Williams, Speaking during the presentation, Golden Eye Hotel, Ocho Rios; Winston Dr Andrew Spencer, executive director of Jones, Hyatt Ziva Hyatt Zilara, Montego Bay; TPDCo, highlighted the importance of Hopeton Powell, Olde Craft Market, Ocho developing the human capital as this will ensure Rios; Michelle Sterling, Amstar DMC, Mon- that the tourism sector realises its full potential. tego Bay; Romaine Meggo, Sandals Negril; “People represent the strongest link in this and Mikhailla Robinson, Jamaica Pegasus tourism chain. We want to continue to lift hotel, Kingston. the standard of our already creative people, The semi-finalists for the organisation cat- therefore, we often create programmes that egory are Chukka Caribbean Adventures, place emphasis on our people. For example, Dr Andrew Spencer (second right), executive director, Tourism Product Montego Bay; The Judy House, Negril; our recently concluded District Constables Development Company Limited (TPDCO), and Dr Carrole Guntley, (third right), Island Car Rentals, Kingston; Sandals Royal programme, which incorporated TPDCo’s chairperson for the Tourism Service Excellence Awards Committee, join the Plantation, Ocho Rios; Beaches Negril flagship Team Jamaica training programme, 2017 TSEA semi-finalists for the organisation category. From left: Resort; Courtleigh Hotel and Suites, was designed to improve security, particularly representatives of Chukka Caribbean Adventures, Montego Bay, The Judy Kingston; Hyatt Ziva Hyatt Zilara Resort, in the resort areas. This (training) was House, Negril, Island Car Rentals, Kingston, Sandals Royal Plantation, Ocho important to achieve the goal of training a Montego Bay; Sandals Negril Resort; Dunn’s Rios, Beaches Negril Resort, Courtleigh Hotel and Suites, Kingston, Hyatt Ziva River Falls and Park, Ocho Rios; Beaches group of district constables who could have a Hyatt Zilara Resort, Montego Bay, Sandals Negril Resort, Dunn’s River Falls and firm hand, and a smiling face, which is Ocho Rios, and Sandals South Coast. Park, Ocho Rios, and Sandals South Coast. Missing from the photo is the repre- crucial in the tourism space,” he said. The TSEA recognises both individuals and sentative for Beaches Ocho Rios Resort. The occasion was the announcement Spencer added that these programmes, entities within the tourism sector that consis- of the 2017 TSEA semi-finalists. The event was held on Wednesday, February particularly the Team Jamaica training, tently provide exemplary customer service. would allow tourism workers to share their 28, at the Marriott Courtyard Hotel in Kingston. This year’s staging of the TSEA will be held skills and talents with visitors who are often heritage, thereby concretising the view that made possible by those who continue to on Saturday, March 17, at the Montego Bay keen on learning about Jamaica’s culture and the Jamaican experience is well rounded, operate at a high standard. Convention Centre in St James.

4 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 2018 Rasta Taco – for Jamaicans and tourists alike Carl Gilchrist food is fast, within 10 minutes, and Hospitality Jamaica Writer it’s Mexican with a Jamaican twist.” Manager Josee Lamontagne puts ASTA TACO had a quiet opening recently at Island it into perspective, adding: “It’s the RVillage in Ocho Rios, and best of Jamaica mixed with the already, its succulent mix of Mexican style, and the people, they Jamaican and Mexican cuisine has love it! We get a lot of people from created quite a buzz for Jamaicans the ships, and we also want to be and tourists alike. getting to the local people, for Its quesadillas have already Jamaicans to come, and taste what become a favourite of many, but so, we serve. We’re trying to make it too, its margaritas, guacamole, and very Jamaican-style so they can come and experience and enjoy.” other menu items such as burritos When he returned to California, Melendez also owns the world’s and Bami, including Jones herself, “When you come you can and escoveitch fish tacos. however, he started taco catering only margarita truck in California. before opening its doors officially expect to get great food and The secret is all in the sauces, so under the brand Rasta Taco, and Next stop was Jamaica. After and is ready to serve Jamaicans and great margaritas, of course.” think chipotle, teriyaki, jerk, garlic, the business took off. As the brand searching, he found a spot at Chris the world. and Scotch bonnet sauces and you Owned by Mexican-American, grew in popularity, Meléndez Blackwell’s Island Village shopping Rasta Taco is still a work in begin to get the idea. Mario Meléndez, Rasta Taco’s started learning more about the centre and established the second progress and is more than a “The sauces are what really make genesis dates back to 2006 when Jamaican culture and decided he Rasta Taco restaurant in the world, business venture for Melendez, it kick and what people will Meléndez first came to Jamaica and would open a branch in Jamaica. in the land of Rasta. Muller explained. It’s not just remember Rasta Taco by,” thought of opening a taco stand But first, he tried it at home, open- At the end of January, Rasta about making money. He wants to explained Nazma Muller, assistant after purchasing the domain ing the first Rasta Taco restaurant Taco served patrons at the Grace support the Rastafari culture, manager at the restaurant. “The www.rastataco.com. in Laguna two years ago. Jones documentary: Bloodlight which is one of his missions in life.

HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 2018 5 LTHOUGH YOU may THE BUSINESS OF TOURISM draw international moviemakers to never have read J. R. choose where to film. ATolkein, you are probably Jamaica, for example, has not one of the tens of millions of people seen any major foreign investment around the world who have seen at in film production since 2013, the least one of the three Lord of the year in which the Government, Rings movies. If you are, you will Moviemaking is under IMF pressure, ended all fiscal almost certainly remember the incentives. Although the island’s stunning scenery that provided the new Fiscal Incentives Act offers backdrop. capital allowances and relief on the All were filmed in New Zealand importation of ‘tools of trade’, with support from that country’s good for tourism nothing has been put in place to tourism board and government and replace the island’s Motion Picture caused hundreds of thousands of my. It brings foreign exchange; sig- budget movies in particular that Encouragement Act to sway travellers to visit the country from nificant short-term local expendi- offer more significant, lasting international moviemakers to use around the world. ture; offers employment to a wide opportunities, particularly if the the country as a location. At a quite different level, a range of individuals from carpenters location chosen or offered then Speaking about this recently, relatively obscure but historic small to fashion designers, caterers, comes to be seen by moviegoers as Diane Edwards, the president of town in England’s south-west and lawyers and accountants; draws in a must-visit destination. JAMPRO, said that encouraging its dramatic nearby coastline now other film, TV and commercial moviemaking again in Jamaica will DYNAMIC CHANGE receives visitors year-round because makers; and through exposure to not only bring direct economic of a hugely popular television best practice, helps enhance local As a fascinating on-line benefits and help tourism, but will series, Broadchurch, so that today skill levels, develops talent, and academic paper, ‘Tourist See also secure more jobs for Jamaicans there are associated vacations, supports the creation of a sustain- Tourist Do: The Influence of working in the film industry, help -Hollywood Movies and Television tours, a trail, and quite literally able domestic movie industry. sell the country’s creative outputs, on Tourism Motivation and dozens of websites promoting the It is also brings significant short- and enlarge international aware- locality as a mini-destination. Activity Behaviour’ points out: ness. Her hope is that a private and long-term gains for tourism. moviemaking has brought with it a Surprisingly, the Caribbean has equity fund now being discussed In the short-term, movie makers “dynamic change in the world in yet to fully embrace the idea that might become the vehicle for a create a substantial demand for terms of fashion, social status, rebate system that would once moviemaking, whether for cinema, accommodation, catering and behaviour, marketing, and tourism”, again put the island back on the television, or commercials, can transport. Those who work in the bringing with it a new marketing help deliver significant numbers of industry note, for example, that DAVID JESSOP channel for consumer goods and map for moviemakers. additional visitors, if the relevant there must be quality hotel and services such as tourism. To date, the tourism sector in the sensitive requirements of a high- ministries, agencies and local villa accommodation available to For the most part, attracting region has said little on the topic at industries are prepared to work house, often for weeks and some- budget production. Good quality international moviemakers either a national or regional level. with those who make and times months, the expensive talent transport is required to reach the involves government developing a This should change. The value of finance movies. involved and the crew. An able and sites where the movie is to be shot package of incentives and rebates. film-induced tourism, aligned with Attracting international efficient local service industry and there also has to be quality on- Despite this, some in the national incentives, has a strong productions to film on location is in partner is essential to look after the location catering. Caribbean are reluctant to under- pedigree. It requires the industry’s general good for a country’s econo- complex, demanding and time- But it is in the longer-term, big- stand the value, or the factors that serious study and support. 2016 TSEA national champion enjoyed prize trip to Barbados

2016 TOURISM Service Excellence Awards (TSEA) CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS individual champion Simone Folkes, while on her Simone Folkes (left) prized trip to Barbados, met with the country’s poses at the former Minister of Tourism and International Transport home of international Richard Sealy. pop star and native Sealy congratulated Folkes on her achievement Barbadian Rihanna, and highlighted that, like Jamaica, excellent customer service was crucial to the growth of the while on her seven- tourism sector in Barbados. day trip to Barbados. He also provided information on tourism in She participated in a Barbados, a country that also relies on its heritage and range of activities and culture to appeal to potential and repeat visitors. met with the country’s As part of her prize for providing exceptional Minister of Tourism customer service within the tourism sector, Folkes and International received a seven-day trip to Sandals Barbados; Transport Richard spending money, courtesy of the National Export- Sealy. Sharing in the Import Bank; and air travel from Caribbean Airlines, all of which are sponsors of TSEA. Simone Folkes enjoyed a Valentine’s moment are Pete Folkes returned to the island on Sunday, February 18. Day event at her recent Tourism Carter, chaperone, The 2017 awards ceremony will be held on Service Excellence Awards prize trip to and Folkes’ mother, Saturday, March 17, at the Montego Bay Convention Sandals Barbados. She spent seven Marlene McCormack. Centre in Rose Hall, St James. days at the luxurious resort.

6 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 2018 ADVERTISEMENT HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 2018 7 From left: Nersibilis Rodriquez, Sheryl Kaye Thompson, Angella Bennett, Kitanya Mirander and Belinda Blake, who received the special award for Most Outstanding Performance from a Sales Team.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS Department of the Year – Kitchen. Here, team members pose with their award.

Coreen Chin from the Food and Beverage Department won Leader of the Year; Latoya Pusey from Human Resources for Supervisor of the Year. Melia goes Other winners were Davian Fuller from Maintenance for Smile and Courtesy; Chad Waugh from Entertainment for Most Improved; Denache John- son from Spa for Revenue ALL IN Earner; Christopher from Food and Beverage was given a From left: General Manager of Melia Braco Village Dimitris Kosvogiannis and Minister special award, and Underwood of Tourism Edmund Bartlett present the Employee of the Year 2017 award to Carlton Simmonds from Human Walters. Sharing in the occasion is the 2016 winner, Homroy Thompson. Resources rounded off the for staff proceedings by copping the “It is also what keeps visitors Gem Awarded. From left: General Manager of Melia Braco Village Dimitris Kosvogiannis; Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett; Miss coming back again and again. HARD WORK AND SERVICE Universe Jamaica Davina Bennett; and Custos of Trelawny Paul Muschette. It is no accident that Jamaica ALLING THEIR hotel a In addition, there were other has a repeat visitor rate of over quality entity “run solely gifts ranging from an all- Minister of Tourism Edmund programmes like these are a 40 per cent.” by Jamaicans,” the expense paid overseas trip, C Bartlett, while lauding the great way to say thank you to Bennett, whose grand management of the Melia inclusive of accommodation awardees, said it was through those who every day create entrance as well as onstage Braco Village, Trelawny, went and airfare, to a three days/two their “hard work, dedication exceptional experiences for our presence drew loud applause all out in honouring their own nights all-expense paid- and exceptional service” why visitors.” from the audience, also praised at the resort’s annual staff vacation getaway, as well as Melia continues to be “an Bartlett also commended the awardees for their awards recently. smart televisions, microwave, award-winning hotel. Melia for “recognising and achievements, noting that “I, With a mixture of glitz, gift baskets and plaques. “Your commitment to service encouraging” its team members too, am a strong supporter of glamour and, yes, pageantry, When the dust settled, excellence has contributed with its annual awards pro- programmes that reward the ceremony which kicked off crowd favourite Carlton significantly to Jamaica’s appeal gramme, adding that “it is very excellence. at approximately 8:15 p.m. and Walters from The Level as a premier tourist important for everyone in “It is good when hard work is which had Miss Jamaica Uni- Department copped the Most destination,” he noted. tourism, from the most senior both recognised and verse 2017 Davina Bennett as Guest Nominated as well as “I wish to express my sincere person to those who work at appreciated,” she noted. “It is one of the main presenters, saw Associate of the Year awards; gratitude to you for being sterling the most junior level, to under- only natural that persons will Anthony Walters, executive chef, pres- staff members walking away O’Shane Holmes from Enter- tourism ambassadors. Service stand that doing a great job give of their best and will be General Manager of Melia Braco Village Dimitris ents the runner-up Associate of the with a combined US$1,900 in tainment won the General excellence is the bedrock of Camille Seaton (left), room division manager, presents Latoya Pusey with her adds value to the product that motivated when they know Kosvogiannis and Leader of the Year Coreen Coreen Year 2017 award to Ramona Wray. cash prizes. Manager’s Special Award; tourism success, and awards Supervisor of the Year 2017 award. our visitors pay to enjoy. they are being appreciated.” Chin, banquet manager.

8 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 2018 9 JTB recognised as Expedia Media Solutions 2017 Partner Award winner HE JAMAICA Tourist Board (JTB) is pleased to announce that it has been recognised by Expedia TMedia Solutions, the advertising arm of Expedia, Inc, as a winner of its annual 2017 Partner Awards programme. The Latin America Destination Campaign of the Year award was presented at the annual Expedia Partner Conference, which acknowledges partner campaigns that demonstrate innovation, creativity, and CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS achievement in travel marketing. “We are thrilled to have been recognised by Expedia to highlight the island destination and all that it has to Minister Edmund Bartlett is ‘Caribbean Minister of the Year’. Media Solutions as the Latin America Destination offer across Expedia, Travelocity, Orbitz, Hotwire, and Director of Tourism Donovan White (left) presents Edmund Campaign of the year winner for 2017,” said Donnie CheapTickets. The campaign that ran in June Bartlett, minister of tourism, with a ceramic plaque during a Dawson, Jamaica’s deputy director of tourism, sales. “We generated 3,500 room nights to the destination within Jamaica Tourist Board-hosted cocktail reception. The event cel- are truly proud of our team and the many a three-week period. To date, these campaigns have ebrated Bartlett’s recent designation as the ‘Caribbean Tourism accomplishments garnered through this campaign and generated a combined return of advertising spend Minister of the Year,’ 2017, by the ‘Caribbean Journal’. will continue our efforts to promote Jamaica as a top (ROAS) of 126:1. destination for the Latin American market and beyond.” “This year’s partner award winners demonstrate the The JTB has been a longstanding Expedia Media remarkable work of our valued partners who have JTB Flight Centre Solutions marketing partner, and in 2017, it enacted a produced successful campaigns through the use of multipronged strategy that would competitively creative content, groundbreaking technology, and position Jamaica against other popular beach strategic targeting,” said Hari Nair, senior global vice- Travel Group USA destinations. The team worked together to develop president, Expedia Media Solutions. “We’re excited to two joint marketing campaigns, which involved a honour this year’s award-winning campaigns and look variety of hotels to drive demand for Jamaica. The first forward to continued work with our partners to help Fiscal Award winner was a year-long co-op campaign with Expedia Media them execute targeted campaigns and achieve their goals THE JAMAICA Tourist Board (JTB) is celebrating the recognition and Solutions that started March 2017. The second was through Expedia’s platforms and valuable insights.” achievements it continues to receive from industry partners for its stellar the Great Jamaica Winter Sale Joint Marketing cam- The JTB was one of 12 brands recognised by Expe- work in selling and promoting Destination Jamaica. Recently, the JTB was paign, capitalising on Black Friday and Cyber Monday dia Media Solutions at the 2017 Partner Conference. acknowledged for its Jamaica Travel Specialist One Love Rewards and the new trend of gifting travel experiences. For more information, visit https://info.advertising. Program by Flight Centre Travel Group USA, which presented the agency In addition, the team produced a display campaign expedia.com/2017-partner-awards. with the 2016-2017 fiscal award for ‘Top Travel Consultant Training Program for Tourist Boards’. The Travel Specialist programme serves as a dedicated training platform for the travel agent community to become certified experts on selling the destination. For the past eight years, Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) has been awarding its partners for their exemplary service to the industry, as voted by FCTG the Americas, with Jamaica winning numerous awards. Flight Centre Travel Group is one of the world’s largest travel agency group, and has company-owned operations in 23 countries.

Jamaica Tourist Board’s Donnie Dawson, deputy director of tourism, sales, US; and Francine Carter- Henry, manager, tour operators and airlines, proudly display the award received from Flight Centre CONTRIBUTED Travel Group USA From left: Betty Estrada, senior business development manager, Caribbean, Expedia Media for ‘Top Travel Consultant Solutions; Francine Carter Henry, manager – tour operators and airlines, Jamaica Tourist Board Training Program (JTB); Ana Paradela, director, advertising sales, LATAM, Mexico and Caribbean, Expedia Media for Tourist Boards’. Solutions; and Kristopher DaCosta, digital marketing manager, JTB.

10 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 2018 FILE PHOTOS The Hip Strip

SILVERA’S PICKS NO ROSES (this week) for tourism industry HIS WEEK, I find it difficult to award any roses to the Ttourism industry. I am forced to highlight a mushrooming situa- tion on Montego Bay’s Hip Strip (Gloucester Avenue), which has fast An aerial view of sections of Montego Bay’s Hip Strip. become the home of the mentally ill. Montegonians will tell you that Jamaica’s biggest and most authorities have not removed the that they don’t have to abandon the Hip Strip, being a relatively safe important source market. It is large contingent living in the area members of their families because haven, is one of the main reasons for enough that these same tourists are because of the ‘street people’ of this sickness. Mental illness is a the migration of the mentally ill being bombarded with offers of scandal, which saw us chronic condition, just like heart from downtown Montego Bay, cocaine ganja, sex, and harassment (Montegonians) forcibly removing a disease, diabetes and hypertension, where they are known to be beaten, from robot taxis and unregistered number of mentally challenged and can be treated. raped, and even burnt, by It needs the same type of family heartless persons. tour guides. persons to St Elizabeth, where they JANET SILVERA To now face the wrath of an were left stranded. support as these other conditions. At least 10 mentally challenged A system needs to be put in men and women, abandoned by and has been known to attack locals unsound mind must be quite dis- Obviously, we feel that another heartening. On many occasions, I mass removal will result in an out- place so that healthcare is offered their families and ignored by the and tourists. to mentally ill persons who have have called the ambulance service to cry by the citizens, but what well- authorities, have taken over the Two months ago, she had a big nowhere to live. no avail. The response is always “We thinking person want to see is a section of the strip between Burger brawl with several prostitutes who are March 25-29 is Psychiatric don’t have an ambulance available.” structural plan to facilitate the King and Dead End Beach. also competing for the space. Two Nursing Aides Week, and I implore As comfortable as their new home It is also obvious that there is decrease in the number of people days before that incident, she asked a families and the community at large is to them, this cannot be allowed to inefficiency with regard to the turning up on the streets. tourist for a cigarette, which she didn’t to get involved in helping to continue. In fact, the situation is presence of an equipped community Family support is going to be very remove the stigma attached to get. So she hit the person, reportedly untenable as one of the females who mental health team. Their job is to critical. Public education, as well as mental illness. has taken up residence close to the visiting from the USA, in the head. deal with aggressive behaviour. one-on-one education, is necessary St James Plaza is extremely violent Lest we forget, the USA remains I am also convinced that the so that Jamaicans will understand [email protected]

HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 2018 11 Record year for Barbados tourism ARBADOS MINISTER of market share. Arrivals from this Tourism and International market were flat compared to 2016, BTransport Richard Sealy has totalling 222,322. The United Sandals Royal Barbados’s General Manager Fernand Zievinger (right), welcomes Shaunagh and announced that Barbados enjoyed States followed, contributing 28.4 Thomas Anderson as his very first guests when the resort opened its doors on December 20, 2017. a record five per cent increase in per cent of business with 188,970 stayover arrivals last year, an all- arrivals for the year. Canada con- both maintaining our current airlift, hotels being refurbished and time high for the destination. tributed 12.8 per cent of the busi- while adding new, enticing services reopening just ahead of the winter Over the course of 2017, the ness, and recorded an increase of to our repertoire; for example, the season; hotels such as Sea Breeze, Grantley Adams International Air- 7.9 per cent or 85,209 arrivals. new Copa partnership which I Fairmont Royal Pavilion, Treasure port (GAIA) welcomed 663,441 Of special note is the United announced last month,” Sealy said. Beach, The House, and so on.” visitor arrivals – 31,308 more than States, which, while being the sec- Barbados’ new partnership with Sealy also welcomed the new 2016. The Bridgetown Port Inc ond-highest producer of business, Copa Airlines will see a twice business that the recently opened (BPI) also observed tremendous grew by a whopping 11.7 per cent weekly Barbados-Panama service Sandals Royal, located on Maxwell growth, recording 818,752 cruise over 2016. The United States’ 2017 commencing this July 17, and Beach, has already brought to arrivals over the previous year’s performance was the highest for that tickets are already on sale on the Barbados. 725,020, for a total increase of 12.9 market in three decades – since con- airline’s website. Late last year, the Describing the island’s new per cent. Of these 818,752 cruise tributing 175,093 arrivals in 1987. BTMI also joined with GAIA in attractions as “integral” in differen- arrivals, some 137,541 passengers Sealy attributed the destination’s FILE PHOTOS welcoming Virgin Atlantic’s new tiating destination Barbados, Sealy noteworthy performance to a said “I am happy to say that a num- stayed over in Barbados, above Richard Sealy London Heathrow twice-weekly 2016’s total of 130,924. -number of strategic and integrated service to Barbados, which com- ber of new attractions have come “I am delighted by this news and marketing initiatives which were Festival and the Barbados Cycling menced December 12, 2017 until on stream, attractions that will dif- what it says about Barbados’ tourism deployed across Barbados’ top Festival. Receiving positive February 24, 2018; and later, the ferentiate the product offering we source markets. “I must commend product,” said Sealy. “It is never easy feedback and displaying strong Thomas Cook new weekly flight have here in Barbados. There’s the our tourism teams, both here and as a mature tourism destination to potential for further development from London Gatwick, which com- Nikki Beach club that opened at in our global offices, whose efforts maintain growth at these levels in and accomplishment, Sealy menced December 16, 2017 and Port Ferdinand, and, of course, in were instrumental in us achieving the competitive business landscape announced that Barbados Tourism will run until March 17, 2018. 2017 we christened the new Rihan- this record five per cent growth.” in which we operate, but I am Marketing Inc (BTMI)will once na Drive, which has already gar- Some of the marketing efforts EXCITING NEW ATTRACTIONS pleased that through strategic nered much international media Sealy referenced included: again host the two events in 2018. marketing efforts we have once AND ACCOMMODATIONS attention following our ceremony NEW AIR SERVICES again proven Barbados’ value as NEW NICHE EVENTS “Considering the numerous new last November. If you’ve been to shown by the record number of Continuing to position Barbados “One of the key components in and increased services, we also saw Speightstown, you’ll also see that arrivals at both the air- and seaports as a formidable player in sports achieving positive tourism perform- it important to ensure that we had there’s a buzz around the new throughout 2017.” tourism; two new events were ance is, of course, the accessibility adequate and quality accommoda- restaurants that have opened there The United Kingdom was once created for the traditionally softer of the destination to visitors around tions available to the additional ... but overall, there are a lot of again the top producer of arrivals to period of September – the the world. Bearing this in mind, we arriving passengers,” Sealy said. positive new developments Barbados with a 33.5 per cent Barbados Beach and Wellness have worked to ensure that we are “We therefore saw a number of happening across the island.” St Lucia tourism arrivals register record-breaking increase for 2017 THE 2017 tourism performance saw St Lucia arrivals at 386,127 and the cruise sector important and vital part of the St Lucian challenges faced by Hurricanes Irma and breaking all records with total visitor arrivals recording a 14 per cent increase, reaching economy. We are happy with the levels of Maria, ensuring all markets that the desti- climbing to an all-time high of 1,105,541. 669,217, an additional 81,264 visitors despite growth witnessed and as we continue our nation was safe and available for travel. The island also recorded the highest growth the eight-month closure of the Pointe marketing efforts, we as well look to At the close of 2017, the Association of in 2017 among the Caribbean Tourism Seraphine Berth 1. maximising the impact of tourism on British Travel Agents in Travel Trends Organisation (CTO) member countries, Commenting on the figures, Minister of our economy”. Report for 2018, the most important registering an 11 per cent increase. Tourism Information and Broadcasting The St Lucia Tourism Authority worked document issued in the UK travel The year 2017 was characterised by sus- Dominic Fedee said: “The tourism assiduously with the CTO and trade industry, selected St Lucia as one tained growth in the industry, with stayover industry continues to be an incredibly partners to overcome the indirect of the top 12 destinations for 2018.

12 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 2018 ADVERTISEMENT HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 2018 13 BA invests in new catering for world CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS

vegetables, or a vegetarian tomato, Jamaican sweet potato stew, bar- traveller customers farfalle and vegetable dish. Dessert beque and jerked chicken with kid- is a Pots & Co salted caramel and ney beans (red peas) and rice, and RITISH AIRWAYS has chocolate mousse, followed by vegetable stir fry with jasmine rice. announced a multimillion- biscuits and cheese. The meal is Passengers going beyond London Bpound investment in its accompanied by a bread roll and a on British Airways can enjoy meals World Traveller (economy) bottle of water. like chicken in spicy chung du catering, introducing an exciting sauce on flights to and from China, A REAL DIFFERENCE and expanded new menu which Hong Kong, Japan and Korea; curry provides more quantity and quality Carolina Martinoli, British Air- and dhal meals on flights to and to both meals and great snacking ways’ director of brand and customer from Indian cities; and chicken in options throughout the flight. experience, said: “Our customers tell spicy Arabic sauce on flights to the Previously, customers travelling us that when they’re taking a long- Middle East. in the cabin were served a compli- haul flight, great food and beverages On shorter daylight long-haul mentary snack, a three-course make a real difference to them. It’s a flights from London to destinations meal or a light meal, depending on huge driver of customer satisfaction, from New York to Dubai, customers the time and length of their flight, so we want to make sure we deliver a also have typical British options like as well as a complimentary bar great experience. With this multi- egg and cress sandwiches. The popular meal options for service of hot and cold drinks. million-pound investment, we’ve focused on introducing more quantity customers with special dietary The new catering introduced drink. Once they are settled in, followed by a main course of and quality to the catering, deliver- requirements will continue to be recently sees airline customers they are served a four-course meal chicken casserole with an ale ing tasty meals and great snacking available to book on ba.com/man being welcomed with pretzels and a such as a starter of couscous salad, sauce, olcannon mash and seasonal options throughout the flight. agemybooking more than 24 hours “Our new four-course main meal ahead of their flight departing. has been developed by our team of British Airways is investing £4.5 chefs to be full of flavour at billion for customers over the next 35,000ft and we’ve created regional five years, covering the installation options, depending on the route. of the best quality Wi-Fi and power The second meal option is either a in every seat, fitting 128 long-haul tasty sandwich or a more aircraft with new interiors and substantial pizza wrap, both served taking delivery of 72 new aircraft. with additional snacks, depending The airline is also investing £600m on the length of the flight.” specifically in Club World, British Airways has, for many including outstanding catering and years, gone the extra mile in luxurious White Company bedding catering for Caribbean tastes with – plus, from 2019, a new seat with menus like coconut curry chicken, direct aisle access.

14 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 2018 Rebel Salute says thank you to hotels Camille Miller St Ann for the time leading up to Hospitality Jamaica Writer the festival,” she further pointed out. RGANISERS OF the 25th “Therefore, the partnership with staging of the International OReggae Festival, Rebel hotels in St Ann is extremely Salute, are still raving about the important. The additional support overall support they received from received came from other proper- the local hotel sector, notably in ties such as Beaches Boscobel the resort town of Ocho Rios. (member of The Sandals Group), Team member Marcia Lawrence, Jamaica Inn, Moon Palace, Sky who had the responsibility of seek- Castle, Executive Inn, Old Fort ing support from the hotels for the Village, Club Ambiance, Cardiff festival, described the partnership Hotel, the Jamaica Pegasus hotel, as invaluable, adding that it made and Marriott Courtyard in for the continued overall success of Kingston, as well as the Hilton the event. Rose Hall Hotel in Montego Bay. “While we are happy with the Lawrence said that the festival support from all our partners, we also received support from have to single out host property, Caribbean Airlines, Knutsford Jewel Dunn’s River, for the amazing Express, and Jamaica Tours Limit- way they handled all aspects of the ed, adding that it is the intention of partnership,” Lawrence noted. “From providing rooms for our the festival through various travel staff and also the performing partners, to provide Rebel Salute artistes, the Jewel Dunn’s River packages that will include airline team was simply outstanding and seats, accommodation, attractions, first class. It must also be noted shuttle service, Rebel Salute mem- that the property also hosted the orabilia, and tickets to the festival. festival’s International Media “We are actually in discussions Launch, among many other now to make that a reality,” things.” she added. BEYOND THE CALL OF DUTY Rebel Salute is an annual music festival that is held over two days in Lawrence added that the St the month of January. Conceptu- Ann-based property “went beyond alised by artist and promoter the call of duty” to ensure that Patrick ‘Tony Rebel’ Barrett, it is everything ran smoothly for the one of the country’s biggest music festival, noting that “they were just absolutely amazing”. festivals, which is known for its “One of the key elements of focus on roots and conscious music. hosting a two-day festival of this Rebel Salute 2019 will be held magnitude is to ensure that suffi- on January 18 and 19 and is cient accommodation is available expected to continue its tradition to staff, performers, and even PHOTO BY LIONEL ROOKWOOD of providing a family-oriented patrons who desire to remain in Patrons and visitors to the island alike, enjoy the experience at Rebel Salute 2018. entertaining package.

Sunwing Travel Group, Planet Hollywood create partnership SUNWING TRAVEL Group, North television, music, and sports, the Planet track record of successfully operating and Costa Rica will be the first resort under this America’s largest vertically integrated travel Hollywood brand has been successful across rapidly expanding premier hotel brands.” new agreement, where customers can company, has signed a deal with iconic the gaming, restaurant, lodging, retail, As master hotel franchisor to the world- ‘Vacation like a Star’ and interact with lifestyle brand Planet Hollywood to leisure, and entertainment sectors. renowned Planet Hollywood brand, Sunwing Hollywood memorabilia, enjoy dramatically increase the footprint of Planet Travel Group intends to establish a dominant entertainment-themed facilities, purchase PERFECT OPPORTUNITY Hollywood’s hotel operations globally. position for Planet Hollywood in the luxury popular brand merchandise, and maybe even Initially, Planet Hollywood Beach Resort “The Planet Hollywood brand has always accommodation space. In addition to building catch a view of a vacationing starlet. Costa Rica will open in the fall of 2018, and been about delivering unique and memorable and operating new resorts, Sunwing Travel The new Planet Hollywood resorts will be Planet Hollywood Resort Cancún will open experiences that translate into lifelong mem- Group will offer management services and using technology to heighten the resort in late Spring of 2019. These two properties ories for our guests,” said Robert Earl, Planet franchise opportunities to prospective Planet experience, from interactive touch-screen mark Planet Hollywood’s first foray into the Hollywood’s founder and chairman. “I am so Hollywood Resorts worldwide. “Robert Earl is digital displays narrating the memorabilia in-demand luxury all-inclusive category. excited to partner with Sunwing Travel a visionary that knows how to create exciting experience to PHTV in-suite and throughout For more than 25 years, the Planet Group and cannot wait to get started with and engaging experiences”, said Stephen the resort, keeping guests up to date with live Hollywood brand has been positioned as the the first spectacular locations in Costa Rica Hunter, president and CEO of Sunwing streaming of events and activities. The brand authority of entertainment and popular and Cancún. This is the perfect opportunity Travel Group, adding that “it’s all about is investing in details from music architecture culture. Capitalising on its close celebrity ties to bring ‘fame’ a lot closer to all customers by capturing the little details that others miss.” to help set the mood to Hollywood lighting to and the universal appeal of movies, leveraging Sunwing Travel Group’s proven The new Planet Hollywood Beach Resort make sure everyone looks fabulous.

HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7, 2018 15 CONTRIBUTED A scene from the panel discussion on ‘Exploring links between Africa and Jamaica in the 21st Century’, held inside Africana House, Great Huts, on Saturday, February 10. Great Huts resort observes Black History Month Paul H. Williams the music of the Hospitality Jamaica Writer reggae icon, and REAT HUTS Paradise on others, in a session the Edge is an Afrocentric, called ‘Marley Magic’. eco-friendly resort located In speaking about the G purpose of the events, in Boston, Portland. The units, called huts, are designed and Director of Cultural accented to look like some Programmes, Events and structures in an African village. Public Relations Vivene But apart from the physical Levison told Hospitality manifestations and aesthetics, the Jamaica, “The essence of resort promotes and hosts events Great Huts is a respect for that speak to the importance of mother nature and a celebra- embracing and preserving the arts tion of Motherland Africa. and culture of Jamaica in Our Black History Month particular, and the African PHOTOS BY PAUL H. WILLIAMS events are a very diaspora in general. There is a Nadia Lowe, singer/songwriter at Wilks Bay Resort in Portland, important aspect of our educational mission cultural show every Saturday performing a Bob Marley song. night in which guests are asked to and cultural events participate. Traffickers filled the Safari Deck programme. “These experi- This year, the telling of the black with a selection of eclectic music. ences have been story went up a notch with the The panel discussion for the meaningful to our hosting of two events to observe second evening, Saturday, local educators, Black History Month. The evening February 17, was themed, ‘Dem a go tired fi si mi face, celebrating community of Saturday, February 10, was billed members, and our Jamaica’s global icon Robert Nesta ‘Pamoja (oneness): Exploring links international Marley’, in which a panel and between Africa and Jamaica in the guests, who some guests at the resort discussed 21st Century’. It started with a learned, but were discussion on ‘reversing the slave the global reach and impact of Bob also entertained triangle’ and ‘issues of reparation Marley’s music. during Pamoja Later in the evening, spoken and repatriation’. and our tribute to CONTRIBUTED An African fashion show and word performer Ras Rod of Dub the great Robert A model shows dance party climaxed the evening. Traffickers, in a very interesting Spoken word performer Ras Nesta Marley,” off an Afrocentric The African clothes on show were outfit he designed, reeled off some Rod of Dub Traffickers in a Levison piece by Aya provided by Aya Wear, while Dub of his ‘poemtry’, before spinning very intense moment. further said. Wear.

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