The Falmouth model has failed – Mafessanti Carl Gilchrist “I think the real benefit is the NORMAN GRINDLEY/CHIEF Hospitality Writer perception that Falmouth is PHOTOGRAPHER benefitting from the pier, so what T ANN businessman Marino Marino Mafessanti, director, we have now is more people Mafessanti believes that the St Ann Chamber of buying premises in Falmouth. But Sdevelopment of the Falmouth Commerce. in terms of employment because of pier in Trelawny has failed to the pier, there is nothing like provide the expected jobs and that. Added to that, there is other economic hardly any local- benefits to the based business town. that benefits The Running Girlz of Canada. “The Falmouth either. It is really model has failed,” disappointing,” he Mafessanti told a lamented. Gleaner Editors’ Overseas groups, media The Forum in Ocho pier lost out big Rios last when the Falmouth pier opened for Reggae Marathon Wednesday. around four years ago. Several MORE THAN 12 groups, as well They will also be joined by two According to Mafessanti: “We ships changed their itinerary, as representatives of some 14 Canadian teams that run for have failed to have an cutting off Ocho Ocho at the media organisations from North charity; Lace Up for Liver from accommodating way to have guests inclusion of Falmouth. However, America and Europe, will be the Canadian Liver Foundation, travel comfortably from ships to last month, Ocho Rios was travelling to this year for and Joints In Motion from the attractions.” voted the ’s the annual staging of the Reggae Arthritis Society. One of the grouses that has Leading Cruise Marathon, Half Marathon and “A number of these groups are emerged from cruise passengers Destination, 10K on Saturday, December 6. not only repeat visitors, but that disembark at the Falmouth sparking hope Now in its 14th year, the committed Reggae Marathon pier, is the extended time they that it will Reggae Marathon event participants as reflected in their have to spend travelling the long lead to continues to attract overseas names,” said Francis. He also distances to attractions in the increase in participation and impressive added, “Some have also chosen neighbouring parishes of St Ann or arrivals at international media coverage, to support the community, and St James. the port. which, according to race director, this year, for example, Black Trelawny has very few Alfred ‘Frano’ Francis, is due Girl’s Rum & Reggae will be attractions to delight visitors, and mainly to “the strong overseas donating supplies to the children despite the pier being opened for marketing support of our main at the Negril All-Age School.” several years now, there has been a partners PUMA Running and the failure, on the part of both the ESTABLISHED MEDIA OUTLETS Jamaica Tourist Board, and the private and public sector, to success of our own digital “Reggae Marathon will also be develop additional attractions in marketing and new look and covered by a number of the town or even the parish. more user-friendly website, which established and respected media As a result, townsfolk are not facilitates effective online outlets and magazines including getting the desired benefit of registration for both local and Runner’s World from Sweden, having a port that is capable of international entrants”. Runner from Belgium, Get Out hosting some of the world’s biggest The groups and media, which There Magazine and Ottawa Life cruise liners. hail mainly from the United Magazine from Canada; Spiridon Falmouth resident, Brian Elliott, States of America and Canada, from Germany; the United while expressing disappointment also include representatives from Kingdom’s Running Fitness as that Falmouth is not benefiting Sweden, Germany, Belgium, the well as the Los Angeles Times, from the pier, believes the model is United Kingdom and Japan. Competitor Magazine, Women’s not yet a complete failure. With more than 91 members Health and Women’s Running “I think it is failing,” Elliott told strong, the US group, Reggae from the United States of The Gleaner last Friday. “And it’s Runnerz comprises the largest America,” said Francis. very disappointing.” overseas contingent at this year’s He indicated that a number of “There is no direct benefit to the event, and they will celebrate the media personnel will also be residents of Falmouth because the with a balloon release at the participating in the event, which town is being bypassed. The pier is Negril Tree House hotel to mark means, “They will not only be used primarily to sell tours outside their Reggae Marathon observing from the sidelines, but of Falmouth,” he argued. participation. Other groups will be active on the course. This “On a typical ship day, all the include: Quicksilver Striders, will help them to tell their stories hustle and bustle is of buses Run NYC, Yellowbird Reggae from the perspective of someone shipping out the tourists to other Runners, Easy Skankin, Andre’s who was involved in the race.” parishes. You can’t tell it’s a ship Crew and Black Girl’s Rum & A number of local corporate day by just looking at the town Reggae from the USA, as well as groups and other teams have also because there is hardly any activity Reggae Rebels, Running Girlz registered to participate in the relating to tourism outside of the FILE and Runners Mark from Canada. event. pier.” The Falmouth Cruise Pier.

2 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2014 Tourism investments a major economic boost – Minister HE LOCAL economy continues to receive a major Tboost from billions of dollars which are currently flowing into the island through investment in the tourism sector. Minister of Tourism and CONTRIBUTED Entertainment Dr Wykeham From left: Hyatt Ziva Director of Sales Mureen James shows McNeill has indicated that ministers Dr Peter Phillips (centre), minister of finance; and Dr “current investment in the industry Wykeham McNeill, minister of tourism and entertainment stands at some $35 billion. This is drawings of the two resorts, Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara, which in keeping with a growing demand for rooms to satisfy the increasing are to open early December. interest in the country as a preferred tourist destination”. Following a tour with McNeill of four tourism investment sites in , Trelawny and Ocho Rios on the weekend, Minister of Finance and Planning Dr Peter Phillips expressed delight with the developments and their contribution to the Government’s General manager of the Moon Palace Jamaica Grande Resort growth agenda. and Spa, Clifton Reader (far right), is emphatic as he points out The locations visited on the tour the luxurious features that are being constructed to transform included the Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt the Ocho Rios hotel for its January 2015 opening. Obviously Zilara resorts in Montego Bay, pleased are (from left) Minister of Tourism and Entertainment Dr Royalton White Sands Resort in Trelawny, the Ocho Rios Cruise Wykeham McNeill, Minister of Finance and Planning Dr Peter Ship Pier and the Moon Palace Phillips, and executive director of the Tourism Enhancement Jamaica Grande Resort and Spa. Fund, Clyde Harrison. RIGHT DIRECTION Arias, said occupancy was now at hotelier, Clifton Reader, as general 100 per cent and this would With more “world-class brands manager. continue into the upcoming winter lining up to enter the sector”, Dr In a bid to retain valuable tourist season, which begins on Phillips said this was “proof that we members of the original workforce, December 15. are heading in the right direction”. the new operators have kept some Dr Phillips then got a first-hand He added that “what we have seen 500 employees on their payroll here in Ocho Rios, as well as in view of work being done by the during the hotel’s temporary Montego Bay and Trelawny, is that Ministry of Tourism and closure. More than 100 workers there is tremendous employment Entertainment through the have also been sent to Mexico for potential in the tourism industry”. Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF) training. The hotel will eventually It was outlined that over 1,000 and other stakeholders, to renovate have 1,200 permanent employees. construction workers are now the Ocho Rios Cruise Ship Pier and Dr Phillips noted that, “Along toiling round the clock to have the add amenities in the resort town to with other developments which luxurious Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt benefit both locals and visitors. may come later, what we’re seeing Zilara resorts ready for a soft MISSION TO TRANSFORM ‘OCHI’ is the extent to which the recovery opening soon. An additional 600 of competitiveness in the Jamaican Dr McNeill pointed out that this permanent staff is already on the economy, which has resulted from job. General manager, Carl investment was being made by both our economic reform programme, is Hendriks, said that figure will be the private sector and driving a new wave of investment, doubled when the hotel is in full Government. “Over the last year, generally. We are in an early phase operation giving guests “service we embarked on an initiative of this process, and if the early from the heart”. between the TEF, the Port phase looks as encouraging as we The hotel’s parent company, Authority of Jamaica and the have seen today, then we can only Playa Resorts, is spending some Urban Development Corporation, imagine the tremendous US$150 million to transform the and we’re working on a project possibilities which will exist for the former Ritz Carlton property with which will transform Ocho Rios.” country as a whole.” the addition to several new It was also outlined that the He was particularly encouraged features, including an additional Moon Palace resort is set to open that “almost every one of the 193 rooms. its doors in January 2015 and over investors and operators that we In Falmouth, the ministers were 2000 construction workers are met with has expressed an interest given a guided tour of the former engaged in the refurbishing of the in expanding beyond their existing Trelawny Beach Hotel, which has former Sunset Jamaica Grande properties, which, again, is an been extensively transformed into property. The hotel, which has over indication of the real prospects that the Royalton White Sands. 700 rooms, is being developed into await Jamaica as we complete this Resident manager, Alexander an elegant resort with Jamaican economic reform programme.”

HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2014 3 ‘ROYAL PALM ESTATE’: of promoting Ja’s tourism product 20 YEARS

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Carol Campbell-Williams, who plays the role of Jennifer Chambers, enjoys a bubble bath at the Royalton White Sands in Trelawny.

Claudia Gardner house with mattresses all over the from year one and we approached his Hospitality Jamaica Writer place. brother, Lee Issa ... we showed them “And it was a kind of pioneering how we could position the hotel and HEN CVM Television started spirit, because CVM had just started – I show off its attributes,” he said. airing the Royal Palm Estate was one of the original three people “So when they agreed to that, we Wsoap opera 20 years ago, little with CVM – and we made a found a way to always have somebody did they know that the programme commitment that we were going to do (in their role) staying in the hotel. And would have become a prime contributor quality Jamaican programming. So so it started with Breezes, Couples, and to the international promotion of there was a kind of enthusiasm where the different Superclubs properties; Jamaica’s tourism product. people didn’t mind roughing it ... three then Sandals got involved. People in “CVM went on the air in 1993, and people would sleep in a bed, et cetera, Kingston, like The Jamaica Pegasus and one year later, we put on the pilot and then we would pack up in everybody’s Terra Nova, were very supportive ran the series. The house that we shoot car and drive back to Kingston,” he because we had, for example, ministers at is in Runaway Bay – Belair Great added. of Government having secret affairs – House,” executive chairman, Little-White said as time progressed, our own scandals – and they would Mediamix, the show’s producer, Lennie the show’s crew and cast of the check into these hotels,” Little-White Little-White explained. programme (now The Blackburns of told Hospitality Jamaica. “The whole property, 3,000 acres that Royal Palm Estate), began to yearn for Over the years, the programme has the Government took over in the time more sophisticated accommodations. featured other hotels in Kingston, of land lease, and we happened to have “People wanted to be treated a little including The Knutsford Court, PHOTO BY CLAUDIA GARDNER access to the Great House. So, coming bit better than roughing it out with Morgan’s Harbour, Courtleigh, Beth Hyde, who plays the role of The Blackburns’ from Kingston, we used to drive down mattresses on the floor. Luckily, Paul Strawberry Hill, the former Wyndham villianess, Julia Blackburn, goes through her lines every weekend on a Friday, film Issa, who is a part of the Couples Kingston, Hotel Four Seasons and the ahead of a scene at the great house. Saturday and Sunday and sleep in the (resort) family, had been in the show Liguanea Club. In Ocho Rios, the

4 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2014 former Jamaica Grande, Crane Ridge, Hermosa Cove, and in Montego Bay, the Iberostar Suites and Sunflower Villas, Gran Bahia Principe in Runaway Bay and the Royalton White Sands in Falmouth, Trelawny. “We moved from hotel to hotel – the deal is, we come to the hotel for a week, so we write scenes for that particular hotel. After a week, we leave the property and go to the (great) house, but we still stay at the hotel. So we do a reconnaissance where we come and see the important things the hotel wants to show off – so if they want to show off their, their spa, or their mani and pedi, food or kids’ village, we write it into the script, and show them,” Little-White told Hospitality Jamaica. CUT COSTS He added that this was how they were able to cut down on costs, “We could set the scenes in a hotel room and we do a trade off Executive producer of ‘The Blackburns of Royal Palm Estate’, Lennie Little- with the hotel in terms of the exposure that White, watches as a scene is shot at the Great House. they are going to get. The hotels lend themselves for romantic scenes, so we try not to show anything negative from within the hotel.” According to him, the cast is shot in the various restaurants and his production team is able to show the customer relations by how they are greeted at the front desk and in the dining room. “So after a while, it caught fire, everybody wanted us to be at their property,” he added. Over the two decades that the programme has been running, Royal Palm Estate has focused on showcasing Jamaica in a positive Make-up artist and hairstylist Michelle light, incorporating the best of the island’s Clarke prepares Diane Clarke, who plays tourism offerings and excluding anything the role of executive chef Tiffany, for a that could be damaging to the product. scene at the Royal Palm Estate Great “I have said to people, we might show poor House recently. people, but we never show poverty; we don’t The Royal Palm Estate Great House. show any zinc fences. So it has a kind of glamour ... we show Montego Bay airport with all the gloss and the fancy things and the Kingston airport; we show shopping ... we have gone to the best attractions such as Dunns River Falls, Mystic Mountain and Dolphin Cove,” he said. The live streaming of the show on the Internet, which has attracted an international audience, is a feat with which Little-White is particularly pleased. He said many of the hotel’s house counts have increased due to Internet streaming. “When people realised it was being streamed live around the world, many of them became far more positive, because the Jamaicans who watched the show in London and New York or wherever were now seeing,” Little-White said. The show he said, mushroomed, and now that it has a wider international audience. “It has always been shown overseas, but on PHOTOS BY CLAUDIA GARDNER a selected basis – in Barbados and Trinidad Actress and production assistant Marguerite Tulloch is ... because it is now on the Internet, the all smiles after a day’s worth of work at the Great House, same time you see it here, you can watch it on the set of ‘The Blackburns of Royal Palm Estate’. anywhere in the world, so it has a much wider audience,” he stated. Little-White said the success of the show RIGHT: Jennifer Chambers (Carol Campbell-Williams) has been incredible, “We have not had one and Richard Blackburn (Adam Hyde) relax in the lazy hotel that does not want us to come back.” River at the Royalton White Sands.

HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2014 5 THE BUSINESS OF TOURISM Cybercrimes – a threat to Caribbean tourism David Jessop has the potential to become a Contributor significant problem. Although there is some public awareness of, for ARLIER THIS year, one of instance, fictitious cruise my colleagues booked offers, larger hoteliers, Ea villa holiday in a tour operators and banks coastal resort in Europe. are more inclined to She was late in doing so and quietly reimburse rather was surprised when just than allow their public JUTA transports guests from Island Routes’ clients such as , Beaches what she was looking for image to be damaged. Resorts, Grand Pineapple Resorts, the Hyatt Group, Bookit, and Air Canada Vacations to appeared online and However, in contrast, available. It was on the several local attractions. awareness of the danger of website of what she thought Internet fraud is having belonged to a reputable JESSOP an effect on smaller company; one known across Caribbean properties or Europe for representing owners those offering specialist services. wishing to rent out their properties. This is causing them to have to HIGH FIVES! She was pleased with the price reassure potential customers that and duly made the reservation. they are logged on to a legitimate However, she then received an site, can proceed to purchase in Island Routes, JUTA celebrate milestone email from the alleged company safety using their credit card, and saying that as it was a late booking, THE CARIBBEAN’S award-winning tour remember when they arrive, and the last when informing them what should be full payment would be required to company, Island Routes Caribbean Adventures, is they depart.” done if they are in any doubt. the owner’s account, so she duly set to celebrate its five-year partnership with A fully licensed tour operator since inception in Over the past decade, the made the transfer. JUTA with the launch of an exciting programme 2009, Island Routes now boasts over 200 Caribbean tourism sector has, A few days later when no of activities designed to strengthen their experiences, providing over 200,000 last year become reliant on digital confirmation or documentation was relationship and heighten standards throughout throughout Jamaica, including the recently forthcoming, she called the communications for everything the country. launched River Bumpkin Farm in Trelawny. Next legitimate company concerned, from sales, their day-to-day in- The programme, scheduled to commence next month, scores of JUTA, MAXI and JCAL drivers only to discover that the villa had house operations, stock control, the year, will incorporate a new awards scheme, will attend a day retreat courtesy of Island Routes. been fully booked for more than a link to the financial services centres enhanced customer service training, tour visits, as Adam Stewart, chief executive officer of Sandals year. Not only had she logged on to they use, and for their daily well as an inter-regional domino tournament. Resorts International, commented, “Our partnership a copy of the legitimate website, but communications. In 2009, following the launch of Island Routes, with JUTA is one based on mutual respect, and I unaware, had transferred thousands Despite this, not many JUTA landed the lucrative deal to transport guests would like to publicly thank them for their efforts of dollars to a criminal operation Caribbean hoteliers have to the company’s extensive range of local this past year. 2015 is set to be our biggest year yet, engaged in internet fraud. considered their financial or excursions and airport transfers which includes and we couldn’t ask for better partners to approach logistical vulnerability, let alone clients such as Sandals Resorts, Beaches Resorts, it with. Their professionalism and willingness to CYBERCRIME TARGET undertaken a full professional Grand Pineapple Resorts, the Hyatt Group, Bookit invest in their equipment and in the development of I note this as increasingly, tourism audit in this area. and Air Canada Vacations. their people is much the same as our own and has become the target of ever-more Moreover, few Caribbean Don Smith, Island Routes’ VP of Airport and ensures that standards are consistently surpassed.” sophisticated cybercrime. This is jurisdictions have the necessary Transportation, commented, “Our group’s strategic “Last year at Sandals, we spend spent over $720 because criminals recognise that legislation, regulations or alliance with JUTA has been a fruitful one and million on transfers and tours and I’m proud that travellers seeking their dream infrastructure to address continues to grow and strengthen with time. From this level of investment continues to not only vacation are more prone to making cybercrimes, making it punishable an operational standpoint, it is imperative that our build their supply chain, but through the JUTA rapid, emotionally led buying to violate a network. It is also far guests are transported efficiently, reliably and association, creates hundreds, if not thousands, of decisions without thinking about from clear whether regional law safely, and with JUTA beside us, we can be Jamaican business owners and entrepreneurs.” whether, for example, the site they enforcement agencies have the confident. We believe this new programme of Established in 1974 when tourism in Jamaica had have logged onto is legitimate or not. legal cover or capacity to co- activity will further heighten the experience of started to gain momentum, JUTA has grown to According to US and European operate with external law those that visit these shores and keep them boast over 3,000 members across the country police forces, vacation-related fraud enforcement agencies in this area, coming back time and time again.” supported by an expert team made up of mechanics, is growing rapidly, with those given that most cybercrimes are body shop technicians and administrative committing the crimes using fake extraterritorial in their effect. ISLAND ROUTES GROWTH personnel, ensuring the best service possible. websites, false advertising, bogus Borderless Internet fraud and Since its launch, Island Routes has grown from Charles Myrie, president of JUTA’s Ocho Rios phone calls and email scams. cybercrime have become the fastest strength to strength and with it, its partners such as Chapter, added, “This has a huge impact on our Related research shows that growing form of criminality. JUTA. It is estimated that JUTA currently moves members and the positive spin-offs are fraudsters are most likely to target Despite this, Caribbean 99 per cent of Sandals’ guests from the airport using immeasurable. Thanks to our nationwide network those booking airline tickets, governments, companies and police almost 60 buses per day, as well as 90 per cent of all built up over the last 40 years, no one can move as seeking package holidays – forces have yet to fully understand other clients who use Island Routes. many passengers the way we do at JUTA, but it’s especially those related to sports or the threat this poses to tourism, an “The more business we get, the more business not about volume for us. It’s about the high level religion – or self-catering villas and industry which professionals agree we put their way, it’s that simple. As a Jamaican of quality, personal care and attention to detail apartments. There is also a growing is now dominated by the need for company, it is extremely important to us that the that we possess within our fleet. This relationship number of fraud connected with constant connectivity, and which tourism dollar doesn’t just trickle down to the man started many years ago when Sandals Chairman online applications for foreign visas. has become dependent for its on the street, it flows. We believe that this Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart gave us a chance with one In the Caribbean, anecdotal survival on being able to market partnership continues to deliver on that promise. of his hotels in Negril, and almost 30 years later, evidence seems to suggest that this and sell online. JUTA drivers are a crucial part of tourism in we handle 99 per cent of all Sandals’ Jamaica; they’re often the first person visitors transportation needs.”

6 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2014 ADVERTISEMENT HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2014 7 State minister in the Ministry of Tourism and Tourism Outlook Entertainment Damian Crawford (left) and Pulse Entertainment Seminar hailed CEO Kingsley Cooper peruse a section of the ‘Tourism as huge success Reader for the FTER SEVERAL riveting presentations by an Agency, Jamaica’s Ronald Jackson; assistant US attorney Caribbean’. impressive cadre of local, regional and from the Department of Justice, Jared Strauss, who Ainternational experts, the sixth staging of the focussed on cybercrime; emergency and crisis Tourism Outlook Seminar (TOS 2014) has been hailed management expert, Miguel Rico Diener and the by participants as a tremendous success. Caribbean Tourism Organisation’s communication The seminar was hosted by the Ministry of Tourism specialist, Johnson JohnRose. and Entertainment, the Jamaica Tourist Board and the While commending the panellists, Bloomfield said, Tourism Enhancement Fund in association with the “While many of us have been treating with these issues United Nations World Tourism Organisation over the decades and have it ingrained, it’s always good Director of Tourism Paul Pennicook (left) and Clive (UNWTO). to have a fresh perspective as we become more aware of Sustainable tourism expert Dr Donald Hawkins (left) engages Caribbean Tourism Organisation Forbes, general manager at Caribbean Airlines The seminar seeks to enable tourism partners to share and in tune with not only the challenges, but the senior specialists Winfield Griffith (centre) and Johnson Johnrose in a conversation during the (Jamaica), in a brief discussion during the opening of the ideas, examine best practices and discuss strategies for channels that are best used in mitigation.” opening of the 2014 staging of the Tourism Outlook Seminar, held at the Montego Bay Convention 2014 Tourism Outlook Seminar. advancing tourism. Staged from November 20 to 21 at Independent consultant, tourism educator and Centre between November 20 and 21. the Montego Bay Convention Centre the seminar was adjunct lecturer at the University of the West Indies, held under the theme, Tourism: Enhancing Social and UWI, Western Jamaica Campus, Margaret Lawrence LEFT: Presenters at the 2014 Tourism Outlook Seminar, Economic Impact. It attracted more than 250 delegates, said, “As someone who has been in tourism for so long, I Grammy award-winning held at the Montego Bay Convention Centre between including a wide cross section of tourism stakeholders think this has been a very interesting seminar with lots producer Winston Harriott November 20 and 21, Johnson Johnrose (left), including hoteliers, owners of attractions, government of information, lots to take home, I am really very happy (left) with tourism experts communications specialist at the Caribbean Tourism officials and university students. that I came.” Robert Singerman Organization, and Dr Donald Hawkins, tourism specialist, Veteran hotelier and general manager of Sunset Beach For UWI Mona student, Rochelle Gordon, “it was (centre) and Carlos unwind at the close of the seminar. Resort & Spa, Evatt Bloomfield, considered the seminar really informative” and fellow student, Kay Williams, Vogeler. They were at a a success, citing that it was “quite instructive and agreed, adding, “It was a good seminar; it was welcome dinner last Deputy director of tourism Sandra informative”. He got from it “information that I think informative.” She was particularly interested in the presentation by Wednesday at the Scott presents a gift package to was very enlightening, which certainly will help me as a hotel manager in looking at various aspects of my UNWTO regional director for the Americas, Carlos Montego Bay Yacht Club Washington-based tourism expert operations, such as access to market channels”. Vogeler on Enhancing Competitiveness through Travel to mark the start of the Dr Donald Hawkins after he made He noted that a critical consideration was the session Facilitation. 2014 Tourism Outlook his presentation at the opening of on disaster risk management. That session titled The “I leant a lot about the aspects of data being collected Seminar, which was held the 2014 Tourism Outlook Seminar. Management of Natural and Manmade Crises had a by them, how it relates to the Caribbean, and how the at the Montego Bay panel of experts that included the executive director of ministry here can use that data to better inform their Convention Centre on the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management marketing strategy,” she said. November 20 and 21.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS President of the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association Nicola Madden-Greig holds the attention of Alvaro Valeriani (left), regional vice-president, sales and marketing at Hyatt Hotels Corporation; and Carlos Vogeler, a director at the Communications specialist, Marline Stephenson-Dalley United Nations World (left), accepts a pictorial book of Jamaica from Sandra Tourism Organisation. Scott, deputy director of tourism at the Jamaica Tourist They were attending the Board. Stephenson-Dalley was the emcee at the closing opening of the 2014 session of the 2014 Tourism Outlook Seminar, held at the staging of the Tourism Montego Bay Convention Centre between November 20 Outlook Seminar, held at the Montego Bay Jason Hall, deputy director at the Jamaica Tourist Board, with and 21.This was the sixth convening of the event in Carlos Vogeler, a director at the United Nations Tourism expert, Dr Donald Hawkins, reasons Convention Centre responsibilities for cruise shipping, and Carole Beckford, film Jamaica. It is geared towards positioning the region’s World Tourism Organisation, addresses with the audience during a question and answer between November 20 commissioner at JAMPRO, in discussion during the closing session of the tourism product to take better advantages of attendees at the opening of the 2014 Tourism session at the opening of the 2014 Tourism and 21. 2014 Tourism Outlook Seminar. opportunities in the marketplace. Outlook Seminar. Outlook Seminar.

8 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2014 9 Tourism minister hosts industry partners at Tourism Outlook Seminar

Minister of Tourism and Entertainment Dr Wykeham McNeill (left) was the consummate host for a special welcome dinner for JTB, British speakers of the recently convened Tourism Outlook Seminar (TOS) Airways 2014. His guests included Carlos Vogeler (second left), director executive secretary of Member showcase Ja Relations and regional director for the Americas, United Nations World Tourism Organization; and to UK’s top Professor Don Hawkins (right), chairman and principal, Solimar agents International; and Mrs Hawkins HE JAMAICA Tourist Board (JTB), in (second right). They represent the partnership with British Airways, slate of eminent academics and Ttreated some of the United Kingdom’s tourist industry professionals who (UK) top-selling travel agents to an all- addressed attendees at the two- inclusive familiarisation (FAM) trip to Jamaica day TOS event. TOS is coordinated from September 10-15. The trip highlighted by the Ministry of Tourism and the best of the island’s tourism product. It also Entertainment and the Jamaica showcased the new North-South Highway, Tourist Board, with funding from the which takes visitors who land in Kingston to Tourism Enhancement Fund. Ocho Rios in around 90 minutes. The FAM trip allowed the group of seven Jamaica travel specialists to be updated on all the latest developments as the group participated in site inspections at several properties, including Couples Tower Isle, Sandals Grand Riviera and Half Moon, A RockResort. The new section of the highway has created a shorter journey time for travellers arriving in Kingston on a British Airways flight while simultaneously making it easier for travellers in Montego Bay and Ocho Rios to experience all the arts and culture that the capital has to offer. This expansion of the road network is great news for visitors looking to explore Ocho Rios and experience some of Jamaica’s must-visit tourist spots such as Mystic Mountain, Dunn’s River Falls and Dolphin Cove, whether they are staying nearby or to the south of the island. This group of travel agents were the first from the UK to experience the new North- South Highway. Floyd Walcott, from Sackville Travel said, “I have travelled to Jamaica many times before, but this was my first time on the new highway. I was impressed that the new route made our trip from Kingston to Ocho Rios much faster, Creating opportunities to boost our creative industries and the panoramic views from the highway added additional enjoyment to the journey. Carole Beckford (left), film commissioner/manager, Creative This route is quicker and more comfortable, Industries, JAMPRO, engages the audience as she responds to but my travel clients who like to stop at the questions during Tourism Outlook Seminar 2014. Beckford was roadside stalls can still enjoy the original a panelist who presented on the topic, Opportunities for route if they choose to.” Partnership with the Entertainment and Creative Industries. Since May 2014, the JTB has hosted four FAM trips to the island for the UK and has further trips planned for 2015. To register on the Jamaica travel specialist A number of participants, including director of tourism, Paul online training programme, visit Pennicook (front), seized the opportunity to ask pertinent www.jamaicatravelspecialist.co.uk. For questions of the presenters. TOS was held at the Montego Bay more information on Jamaica, visit Convention Centre from November 20-21. www.VisitJamaica.com.

10 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2014 Awardees at the recently held Round Hill Hotel & Villas 2014 Long Service From left: Tracy Christie-Smith, chief financial officer; Josef Forstmayr, Awards. It was a celebration of a collective 555 years of outstanding and managing director, who was awarded for 25 years of service to the Round Hill impeccable service to the vision, mission and policies of the resort coupled Hotel and Villas; Hillary Stewart, director, food & beverage; Nathalie with extremely hard work. It was a modish mixture of housekeepers, front office Saunders, director, human resources and training; and Omar Robinson, agents, stewards, tennis pros the kids club co-ordinator, and the fitness general manager. The occasion was the Round Hill Hotel Long Service instructor, who have proudly earned their awards to augment to the rich history Awards ceremony held recently at the Resort where Josef received his award of the hotel. Posing with the awardees are Josef Forstmayr (front row, right), from Nathalie Saunders for 25 years of committed and transformational managing director; Omar Robinson (front row, left), general manager; and leadership service to the development of Round Hill Hotel & Villas. Members Nathalie Saunders (back row, right), director, human resources and training. of his executive team shared the achievement.

JESSICA WHYTE: From cool office to fiery kitchen Karrie Williams paint, the frying pan my brush, and sees the culinary arts as one of the Hospitality Jamaica Writer the plate my canvas, and with these I most sustainable industries, and as make edible masterpieces,” Whyte such, suitable for a happy and INCE CHILDHOOD, Jessica Whyte has always had a passion has for many years carried on her profitable career. Sfor being in the kitchen. So it own baking business, which even saw “Food is dynamic, ever evolving, was only natural that after studying her earning the nickname ‘Betty sexy, fluid, and interchangeable. It for a degree in international relations Crocker’, after the famous American can represent so many things for so at the University of the West Indies, cook, during her tenure at university. many people, it can be culture, it can Mona, she headed straight back to Her products, comprising chocolate be anything! The best part is that her first love. chip cookies, oatmeal cookies, mini people will always need to eat, so it’s “As far back as I can remember, I Oreo cheesecakes and spiced sustainable. Who could ask for a have always loved being in the plantain tarts, were favourites of both better career? I’m grateful that God kitchen, a trait which I can definitely her lecturers and fellow students. has blessed me with a passion that say I inherited from my mother and EAGER TO LEARN can be profitable,” she said. my grandmother ... reading The budding chef hopes to achieve cookbooks was a must, of course, as Whyte has earned the admiration the distinction of being named World also experimenting in the kitchen of countless persons who have Master Chef, following in the where I developed a special penchant become acquainted with her culinary footsteps of her culinary idols, chefs for baking,” Whyte told Hospitality skills, the latest being Hilary Stewart, Gordon Ramsey and Oji Jaja. Jamaica. Round Hill’s director of food and “Professionally, I am inspired by Serious about taking her love of beverage. chefs Gordon Ramsey and Oji Jaja. cooking to the next level, in 2013, “Jessica is very enthusiastic and Both of these amazing chefs, though Whyte enrolled at the HEART she’s eager to learn. She’s doing quite different, focus on taking food in its College of Hospitality Services in well, we’ve actually had her on simplest, most natural forms and Runaway Bay, St Ann, to pursue an functions where we have flambé serving it with no fuss or superfluous associate degree in food preparation. stations, so she’s learning how to additions. Now on the final leg of her studies, interact with the guests while “Round Hill embodies this Whyte is currently serving as a food preparing items ... she’s a very good mentality, sophisticated simplicity, and beverage intern at the Hanover- candidate, and if this is what she and I consider myself incredibly based Round Hill Hotel, which is wants to do, she’s going to go very fortunate to be granted the where Hospitality Jamaica got the far,” said Stewart. opportunity to do my work opportunity to observe her at her craft. Whyte, who said she was greatly experience at such a world-class WHYTE Living by the mantra, “food is my inspired by her mother, Karen Weir, hotel,” she said.

HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2014 11 HolisticHolistic livingliving atat StSt Thomas’ eco-village

Paul H. Williams and is the habitat for many species Hospitality Jamaica Writer of birds. There is also a stream and a N 63 acres at John’s Town, small waterfall. Coconut trees and St Thomas, there is The lemon grass are in abundance. OSource Farm Foundation From various points, cloud-covered and Learning Village, a place where mountains and sections of the St the preservation of the Thomas coastline can be seen. And environment and the holistic the weather is cool and relaxing. development of its residents are the “The Source Farm provides a essence of life. healing retreat for residents and “This multicultural, guests, and a spiritual sanctuary for intergenerational, self-sufficient them to experience serenity and village is committed to natural tranquility,” Nicola Shirley-Phillips, living, holistic health and one of the partners at Source Farm, spirituality, ecological and social told Hospitality Jamaica sometime stewardship, educational sharing ago. (learning and teaching),” is how In this place of great tranquility, The Source Farm textualises what the destruction and pollution of the happens there. environment is strongly prohibited. One of its main features is a Everything is done in consideration PHOTOS BY PAUL WILLIAMS terraced farm on which only of the environment. The intention Volunteer Shireen Noort of Holland wiping sweat from her brow while harvesting fever grass nourishing, organic substances are is that it is “an innovative model on the Source Farm in John’s Town, St Thomas. used. community that is dedicated to The property’s vegetation is lush TOP: A breathtaking view of a section of the St Thomas coastline from the Source Farm Ecovillage.

12 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2014 respecting and restoring Mother Earth”, PHOTO BY PAUL WILLIAMS Shirley-Phillips said. A ‘bubble’ house under Even some of the structures, such as construction at the Source earth-bag houses, are built with the Farm Ecovillage. environment in mind. The earth-bag houses are made of soil-filled bags, which are encased by mesh wire and a layer of concrete. Some rooms are lit up in the days by ceiling-embedded light tubes BELOW: An eco-friendly which reflect the sun’s rays. house at the Source Farm There are also beams made of coconut Ecovillage at John’s Town, St trunks and bamboo, and other wood Thomas. fixtures. All of this fits into the whole notion of environmental preservation, and the building of eco-friendly, cost- effective structures. Rainwater is stored and purified for domestic use, while electricity is partially generated by wind turbines. While there are facilities to accommodate visitors and guests, the Farm is essentially a residential community in which lots can be leased for 99 years. “At the core of the Source Farm Foundation and eco-village ... is family, and The Source Farm is currently seeking some new members to join our family. We are seeking responsible adults who share the vision of stewarding the The Source Farm Earth, being ‘solutionaries’, assisting to guide our next generation to a full Foundation and eco-village understanding of who they are ... ,” The Source Farm said. learning community has, since INTENTIONAL COMMUNITY its inception in 2005, evolved These new members ought to know “ that The Source Farm is an intentional community, which means it’s about into a dynamic, creative and living in harmony with the members of the community and the environment. innovative model community Everything is done with a purpose and after consultation with community that is pursuing members. Decisions concerning the treatment of the environment, the sustainable living. disposal of solid and human waste, and other matters that impact the environment are based on consensus. There is a protocol for communicating with one another, and how meetings are conducted. Decisions are made at these ” meetings. There are also conflict resolution protocols Shirley-Phillips said. “We have created processes by which we can live through in good times and bad times. We will foster personal growth and development and empower our community to be ambassadors of natural The Source Farm eco-village in John’s and progressive living.” Town, St Thomas, is an intentional “The Source Farm Foundation and community. It’s about living in harmony eco-village learning community has, since with the members of the community its inception in 2005, evolved into a and the environment. Everything is dynamic, creative and innovative model done with a purpose and after community that is pursuing sustainable living. This outcome is grounded in consultation with community organic and natural farming, community members. development initiatives and a variety of approaches directed at improving LEFT:The school at Source Farm personal, intra and inter-personal and Ecovillage in John’s Town, St community relationships,” the Source Thomas. Farm said. Some 12 adults and children live on The Source Farm.

HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2014 13 AROUND JA WITH PAUL H. What a year it has been!

Paul H. Williams After 10 hours of walking, I refused Gleaner Writer F ALL the years I’ve been to go any further, and slept at a riverside travelling around the in despair, utter misery, with my big Oisland, I think this one has PHOTO BY PAUL WILLIAMS been the most exciting yet toes burning. The road to Old Nanny Town in the Blue and John Crow challenging, so far. Exciting because Mountains is rugged and brutal to the uninitiated trekker. I finally got the opportunity to go Island; hiking to Sambo Hill; to places I had always dreamt of canoeing on the Blue Lagoon and visiting, and I was challenged by around Princess Nina Island; the some rugged terrains. Most of it brutal trek to Old Nanny Town; unfolded in the parish of Portland. the tour of Stewart Town, There were poignant as well as Trelawny; and the ancestral wail at exhilarating moments, ones that I Sligoville, St Catherine. will never forget, so today, I am The year started out excitingly reflecting on the abandoned wild with the prospect of catching wild hog hunt; my crossing the sea on hogs in the hills of Bangor Ridge, foot from Folly Ruins to Monkey Portland. My colleagues and I

One of the many old buildings in Stewart Town, Trelawny.

This is the type of landscape Hospitality Jamaica writer Paul H. Williams and some colleagues who went to hunt wild hogs in January were previleged to view. After descending a dangerous ridge for two hours, they turned back. This man, called ‘Cricket’, guided Hospitality Jamaica writer Paul H. Williams one dark Friday night in June down the rugged terrains of Sambo Hill, Portland.

14 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2014 On his way to see this old slave house in Sligoville, St Catherine, earlier this year, Hospitality Jamaica’s Paul H. Williams had a very strange moment under a mahoe tree.

We waited until five when it was still pitch black, but the young hunters with whom we were going were eager, and Returning from Monkey like sure-footed mountain goats, led us Island, off the Port Antonio coast, on foot earlier this year. down narrow, rugged ledges in the

The Blue Lagoon in Portland dark. When daylight revealed what I is one of the most was walking atop, I was scared out of mesmerizing spots in all Jamaica. my wits.

Never on another rugged trip I another Trelawny district, when I But the most would venture, I had told Cricket. stumbled upon this place that Yet, only a week after, I was to looks like it was in a time warp. It psychologically undertake the most brutal trek in my has more old buildings than daring thing I have life. It was to Old Nanny Town, in modern ones: ancient graves and the Blue and John Crow Mountains. ruins and historical points of accomplished in my Nothing seriously prepared me for reference. That is a place I must this super-mountainous landscape on revisit. entire life was crossing which I huffed, puffed, cussed, I am not sure I will revisit the old collapsed, hyperventilated, swore, slave house in Sligoville, St the waist-high sea slid on my backside down stony Catherine. In this the first free from Folly Ruins to paths, scaled down a rope, walked on village in Jamaica, I had a strange arrived at the point of departure at 4 the ledges more dangerous. I ledges, trembled on precipices, and experience on my way to visit the a.m. when it was pitch black. We clawed, scrambled and rolled back Monkey Island ... . struggled up steep inclines. house. Being led by a resident, I waited until five when it was still to the top, where we waited for SLEPT AT A RIVERSIDE couldn’t pass a certain tree. As I pitch black, but the young hunters hours for the hunters to return. approached it, a wail welled up in with whom we were going were When they did, they actually had a interlocking spurs and a After 10 hours of walking, I my gut. As much as I tried to keep eager, and like sure-footed mountain hog, portions of which I devoured meandering river to the right. refused to go any further and slept the scream in, I couldn’t, and it was goats, led us down narrow, rugged eventually for all the trouble it But on the way back, night at a riverside in despair, utter when I released it under the tree, I ledges in the dark. When daylight caused me. Never again. caught me, and had it not been for misery with my big toes burning. was able to move on. What was revealed what I was walking atop, I Never again also was what I said a man called ‘Cricket’, I would Yet, the trek and those idyllic days that? Goose pimples! was scared out of my wits. after returning from Sambo Hill perhaps have had a different story at base camp near a refreshing river But the most psychologically After all the trepidation, when near Charles Town in Portland. A to tell. Cricket, who lives on the are one of the things I will always daring thing I have accomplished we reached a dry riverbed in a very film crew and I had gone there to hill, joined the crew when he heard treasure. The big toenails, which in my entire life was crossing the narrow valley. Our excitement was get footage. The paths for the most us calling some people who took a fell out a week after the perilous waist-high sea from Folly Ruins to shattered as we were told we had a parts were rocky and rough. It was work path. When I saw him, I felt quest, I will keep for posterity. Monkey Island, once owned by the hillside to climb up and another to a steep climb through the like I had known him for years, Speaking of posterity, I will also family that built the Folly mansion. descend. That was it! We chose not disgusting scent of rotting mangoes. even embracing him. It turned out tell my grandchildren of how Even now I believe I am dreaming. to go farther. The real hunters At the top, the views were to die he was the one to guide me pleasantly surprised I was, when I For a non-swimmer who has a continued on their quest. Then the for; the Portland northern coast to through the dense, dark night came upon Stewart Town in morbid fear of deep seas, it was rains came, making our return on the left, and the valley with when everyone else had long gone. Trelawny. I was on my way to Alps, insane.

HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2014 15 The SJF supports National Parent Awards N WEDNESDAY, November 19, The OSpanish-Jamaican Foundation (SJF) again joined forces with the Ministry of Education to recognise parents of children from early childhood through to the secondary levels, who, through their actions, have clearly demonstrated their full commitment to the holistic development of their children. Each year, 24 parents who have shown outstanding parenting skills are selected from the Ministry of Education regions across the island. These parents, along with their families, are hosted at a luncheon by one of the SJF member hotels. The ceremony has become a highlight of National Parent Month activities. COMPLIMENTARY HOTEL PASSES Group awardees with Ambassador Aníbal Jiménez Abascal and Spanish-Jamaican Foundation general manager, Dr Rebecca Tortello. The awardees are not only feted, but they also receive passes for SJF general manager Dr to create strong links between should be commended whenever The SJF was established in 2006 complimentary visits to four Rebecca Tortello explained that, home and school.” possible. This is why the to foster partnerships between world-class Spanish Hotels and “At the SJF, we believe that SJF president, Ambassador foundation is happy to host this Spain and Jamaica through SJF member companies: Gran positive parenting should be Aníbal Jiménez in one of his first event every year, and we again educational, cultural, Bahia Principe Clubs and Resorts, commended whenever possible. official duties representing the congratulate the Ministry of environmental and community Iberostar Hotels and Resorts, RIU As a result, we are pleased to foundation, acknowledged in Education on working to elevate development initiatives. To learn Hotels and Resorts, and Grand once again show support and congratulating the parent awardees recognition of parenting as an more about the SJF, please visit Palladium Resort and Spa, hosts recognition for these parents who that “thoughtful and responsible important factor in national www.spanishjamaican for this year’s ceremony. put their children first and work parenting is extremely difficult and development”. foundation.org. Anse Chastanet named Best Value in Caribbean Luxury ST LUCIA’S storied Anse Chastanet resort blossom festooned balconies that lean into has been recognised as the best-value the stunning scenery.” experience in the Caribbean for the New Also recommended were the resort’s PADI Year. five-star scuba centre, miles of hiking and Recognition of St Lucia’s iconic resort is mountain biking trails to explore within the embedded in the 2015 Conde Nast Johansens 18th Century plantation which is part of the Awards for Excellence, created to resort’s 600-acre estate. Invigorating couples acknowledge, reward and celebrate massages, yoga, bird-watching, non- outstanding hotels in the high-end sector. motorised water sports, walking, hiking and “We know we have something really tennis are all available at Anse Chastanet, special for discerning travellers, and we are while guests benefit from a variety of pleased that both travellers and sellers of restaurants offering Caribbean fine dining, travel have given us the thumbs up,” said vegetarian, East Indian-Lucian fusion and a Karolin Troubetzkoy, executive director of relaxed beachside grill. The resort also has a Anse Chastanet. private helipad. She also reported that sister resort, Jade From the publishers of Vogue, GQ, Mountain, received top honors in the Best Traveller and Glamour, Conde Nast for Romance category. Johansens is a leading reference guide for The annual Conde Nast Johansens Awards independent travellers. Whether searching for Excellence are a trusted mark of quality, for a luxury hotel, spa, country house, recognised by luxury consumers and travel boutique retreat, celebratory venue or professionals alike. somewhere by the beach, Conde Nast The winners and finalists were determined The colourful Anse Chastanet in St Lucia. Johansens provides inspiration and by the combined results of online voting, assistance in finding the perfect place for guest feedback and local expert reports. down to beach level, Anse Chastanet is the The Conde Nast Johansens website every occasion. According to its website, “The colourful creation of architect owner, bon viveur and continues, “Vibrant interiors are dressed with For bookings at Anse Chastanet, call Anse Chastanet on St Lucia oozes romance eco-warrior Nick Troubetzkoy who came to jolly Matisse-inspired paintings and Nick’s 1-800-223-1108, email ansechastanet@ throughout its airy open-plan spaces. St Lucia in the 1970s and never looked beautiful designs pay homage to the island’s ansechastanet.com, or visit Perched at different heights on the hillside back.” curvaceous volcanic landscape such as the www.ansechastanet.com.

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