HospitalityThe Gleaner KEEPING YOU CONNECTED TO THE BUSINESS OF TOURISM WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2018 FAMILY RESORTS IN DEMAND FOR CHRISTMAS, but Jamaicans are late bookers!

Upgraded Lyssons Beach Passenger numbers could double officially opened to 8.2 billion in 2037 FAMILY RESORTS IN DEMAND FOR CHRISTMAS, but Jamaicans are late bookers!

Holiday Inn in Montego Bay Janet Silvera revealed that her resorts were Hospitality Jamaica Coordinator doing very well for Christmas. “Traditionally, there is greater AMAICANS ARE known to go into panic mode just before demand for the family hotels for JChristmas after being hit with this particular holiday than our the fact they are left with very few adults-only (AO), which is choices of accommodation for the understandable. However, we do holidays. see an increase in sales for the “Usually, persons tend to book AO closer to arrival date,” their Christmas stays about two stated Linton. weeks before and then start According to her, RIU is pacing panicking when they realise they ahead of last year in all seven don’t have much to choose from,” resorts on the island and has been travel expert Dave Chin Tung of fully booked for both Christmas Go Jamaica Travel tells and New Year in since Hospitality Jamaica. October. He says he is already seeing With Ocho Rios being the increased interest for resorts such obvious choice for vacationers, Moon Palace, Hyatt Ziva, Royalton Linton said the demand was being Riu Montego Bay PHOTO COURTESY OF RIU HOTELS White Sands, Holiday Inn, and diverted to their second favourite Hedonism II. “the hotels in Montego Bay”. “Even with the five-night This is not unusual for the brand, to and rest while the entire family percentages in the high 80s. date December 1-23, as the summer minimum stay at Moon Palace, the and in the past few years, she said, has fun.” That figure, she said, is coupled rates are still very attractive for the numbers are up for locals who are they have noticed consistent In Trelawny at the Meliá Braco with healthy rates from the family market over those dates. spending Christmas in a resort,” incremental business from the local Village, another favourite for international markets – USA, For the Couples group of resorts, said Chin Tung. market during this period. families, bookings for the holiday and Europe. although their most popular His comments were bolstered by “It’s a family affair, and the season, director of sales and According to Bennett, Meliá properties for locals are Tower Isle director of sales at RIU Resorts beautiful thing is that grandma and marketing, Angella Bennett, says, is Braco is anticipating the local market and Negril, Alex Ghisays, director Jamaica, Niurka Linton, who mama get the chance to be catered pacing very well, with occupany to start booking early, pre-Christmas of sales, said that for their four

2 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2018 CONTRIBUTED The Royalton White Sands Resort in Montego Bay.

PHOTOS BY DAVE RODNEY The new Moon Palace in Ocho Rios is sensational, colourful and exciting. resorts, including Sans Souci and cent,” said organisations group Swept Away, bookings look pretty manager, public relations, Sheryl good for Christmas, but all proper- McGaw-Douse. ties are showing some space until And it gets better at the Jewel December 28. and Hilton resorts, which are all “Our local business is mostly showing high occupancy for 10 per cent are locals, who are holiday and be catered to rather sold out for the Christmas holidays repeaters, so this is the norm for Christmas into the New Year, primarily booked over Christmas than to be in the kitchen or have since as early as October. this period,” she explained. according to Jewel and Hilton and Boxing Day for the family food prepared catered at home. “The only offerings we have Sandals Resorts is also Resorts director of marketing, resorts and a little less for the Many of the smaller hotels are available are day and evening experiencing and projecting very Charmaine Deane. adults-only,” said Deane. doing quite well as well, and this passes for persons wishing to spend high occupancies across all its “Over the years, we have seen an Being busy is normal for this time was evidenced by the response Christmas Day or have Christmas resorts, inline with traditional increasing number of Jamaicans for of year, she admitted, noting that from Sea Gardens Beach Resort’s dinner with us, and they are booking uptakes for the period. Christmas, especially the family- the number of local bookings has director of sales, Tricia-Ann limited,” added Bicarie. “Local to international bookings based ones, and this is no less. Of been growing steadily as it seems Bicarie, who told Hospitality are also in-line, with over 95 per our overall totals, between five and that persons prefer to enjoy the Jamaica that her hotel has been [email protected]

HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2018 3 Hotel Teams Jamaican seafarers gearing up for are in the highest Chairman’s Trophy demand in the cruise business, says Bartlett

OURISM MINISTER, maritime tourism – one to come to programme in cruise shipping and Edmund Bartlett says there Port Royal and the other one in the marine tourism. Tis currently a demand for Montego Bay area. One thing that The minister also took the 5,000 Jamaican seafarers in the Jamaica has not yet developed opportunity to encourage the cruise industry. properly is marinas for yachting and graduates to consider enrolling in Speaking last Tuesday (Novem- maritime tourism – this is a high- the Ministry of Tourism’s training ber 20) at the graduation ceremony income and special demographic arm, the Jamaica Centre for for the Blue Ocean Servidores pilot area of tourism. It is an area where programme, offered at the the rich and the famous particularly Tourism Innovation (JCTI) for Caribbean Maritime University, the control,” he stated. additional certification to attain minister said, Jamaica, he argued, has not been management roles in the industry. “I have been told by the cruise able to dominate, but was looking “The course that you have done lines that Jamaican seafarers are in forward to do just that. and the degree that you will get the highest demand in the cruise “We are also talking to our cruise after you have completed the four- business, but they have labour ship partners in a very strong way year period, is a start to qualify you market arrangements which need for you,” said Minister Bartlett. for higher levels of placement in tweaking,” Bartlett told the The aim of the Blue Ocean Servi- the tourism sector. The JCTI is a Runners enjoying the race course at Reggae Marathon. graduates. dores is to equip students with the “As we speak, there is a demand pathway institution to certify you skills and knowledge required for a for leadership,” said the minister. HOTELS IN the resort areas of the the promotion of the races locally for 5,000 seafarers. Therefore, gradu- smooth transition to the cruise ating from the Maritime University, He further emphasised that “once island are gearing up to compete and overseas. tourism sector as professionals. focusing on tourism is a very posi- you have been trained, certified and for the Chairman’s Trophy in this He said the prize purse remains Training took place with 10 tive area with immediate demand.” year’s Reggae Marathon, Half- at approximately J$1 million. In competent, then you are at the The minister also noted that students over an eight-week period, Marathon and 10K, set for Sunday, addition, there will be a special with classes on basic safety; ship vanguard of the prosperity agenda of there are plans in place to further Jamaica. I encourage you to December 2. prize purse, which was instituted in develop the marine tourism indus- security awareness; crowd and crisis understand that knowledge is to be The trophy was introduced last 2015 but has never been utilised, try so that more Jamaicans will management; protocol; business year in honour of Ewart Barclay, for Jamaicans who break any of the benefit from increased earnings etiquette; résumé writing; and used as a tool for engagement and the late chairman of the Reggae three race records. The from the sector. managing your IT footprint. All empowerment and to add value. If Marathon, Half-Marathon and Jamdammers Running Club will “We are just finishing discussions participants were students enrolled you are able to so use the knowledge, 10K. The inaugural trophy was double the prize of any Jamaican with two of the largest investors in in the bachelor of science degree then prosperity will be yours.” awarded to Negril’s Rock House breaking any of the established Hotel on the Negril’s West End, records held to date, as follows: which had the winning hotel team REGGAE MARATHON in the 10K. “The trophy is again up for grabs Male record holder: Pamenos Ballentyne, St Vincent, 2001 – this year among Jamaican hotel 2:21:05 teams and word is that those from Female record holder: Ramilia Negril, as well as Montego Bay and Burangulova, Russia, 2001 – other resort areas are training hard 2:42:25 to win it,” said Alfred ‘Frano’ Francis, race director. REGGAE HALF-MARATHON In addition, Francis noted that Male record holder: Moses the IAAF certification of the race Macharia, Kenya, 2001 – 1:08:32 course along the Negril main road Female record holder – Jackline remains in effect for another three Toror, Kenya, 2001 – 1:16:12 years and can to be used by runners Reggae 10K wanting to qualify for the Olympics Male record holder: Shawn Pit- and World Championships, or to ter, Jamaica, 2012 – 29:55 enter marathons such as the Female record holder: Carrie prestigious annual Boston Marathon Tollefson, USA, 2011 – 36:17 or London Marathon events, which So far only one Jamaican, Shawn Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett (5th right) and VP of university advancement and development require a qualifying time. Pitter, has set a record in any of the at the Caribbean Maritime University, Evron McLean (left), join graduates of the Blue Ocean The reminder was given by three races and his was in the 10K Servidores pilot programme, offered at the Caribbean Maritime University, for a photograph after Francis, who has been ramping up event. receiving their certificates.

4 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2018 Sandals recruits new batch of trainee managers WENTY-SEVEN YOUNG people are to Intern Lennox Speid, a recent university people across the region,” he said. benefit from hands-on training and graduate, speaking of the programme, said that He continued, “This programme is an Tregional travel as part of the company’s he was enjoying learning the ropes of an investment in our team members, an signature Management Trainee Programme industry he was desirous of making his mark on investment in the young people of the Committed to investing in the development and had big dreams of one day holding a perma- Caribbean, and, ultimately, an investment in of young people across the Caribbean and nent position within the Sandals chain. the region’s hospitality sector. We are resolute continuing to strengthen its succession-planning A Jamaican national, Speid is among three in our commitment to developing our human strategy, Sandals Resorts International (SRI) trainees who will be immersed in the operations resources, and I am excited for the new trainee has, since 2012, recruited over 100 trainee man- of the company’s Butler Division. He hopes to managers who have embarked on this life- agers to participate in its Management Trainee become a butler manager and to one day move changing journey.” Programme. into the operations division. Excited about the Life-changing is exactly the word that best Most recently, 27 new trainees were selected journey, he said, “I think this programme will describes what the experience means for from among 138 applicants across the region to help me to achieve my goals through the rigor- Sheudy Henry, a St Lucian national who started Devron McFarlane, manage- join the competitive and robust programme. ous training that will allow me hands-on with the company as a hospitality trainee. ment trainee at Sandals. Some will be trained for two years, others three. experience and prepare me for my career path. I Henry hopes to become a food and beverage The MTP prepares both new hires and have already been impacted and changed in manager, and eventually, the company’s chief many ways over the course of the orientation.” existing team members for exciting management operations officer. and leadership roles throughout the company. IMPRESSIVE TALENT Devron McFarlane, who has worked as an Management trainees are exposed to strategic Adam Stewart, SRI’s deputy chairman, said AC and refrigeration technician at Sandals hands-on training through rotations in various the programme was illustrative of the company’s Montego Bay for 11 years, took a leap of faith departments at a number of the company’s commitment to investing in and providing oppor- in his quest to better himself. resorts throughout the region. This year’s tunities for young people across the region. “The “Personal development and growth have trainees, the fifth cohort to benefit from the talent that exists in our resorts and our communi- always been important to me. I have a love for programme since its reintroduction in 2012, ties is impressive. We are committed to identifying air conditioning and refrigeration, but I am include nationals of Jamaica, The Bahamas, these talented young people, providing them with also multifaceted. I like chemistry, plumbing, Barbados, and St Lucia. opportunities for growth and development, and and electrical work, and I just want to create They will be trained in the divisions such as helping them to find and pursue their passions. The things.” McFarlane hopes to become a chief butler, Club Sandals, engineering, entertainment, Management Trainee Programme is one of the engineer within the chain and also harbours watersports, food and beverage, housekeeping, initiatives I am most proud of because I have seen dreams of being the first Jamaican to create sales, resort shop, Red Lane Spa, and weddings. how it has changed the lives of countless young his own brand of refrigerator for the market.

St Lucian Sheudy Henry, management trainee at Sandals.

Lennox Speid, management Group of trainees on the Sandals management trainee programme. trainee at Sandals.

HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2018 5 experienced marathoners and enthusiastic volunteers. According to Francis, there will also be cooling stations with misters and iced towel 30 countries already wraps, as well as inspirational reggae music at every mile to help in motivating the participants to keep going. In addition, medical stations and fully equipped ambulances will be registered for positioned along the course, ade- quately manned by medical teams. “We look forward to another great staging, where our participants will not only enjoy a sporting event of the highest Reggae Marathon international standards, but will get an opportunity to see our beautiful S PROMISED, this year’s island and what it has to offer our 18th staging of Reggae visitors,” said Francis. AMarathon, Half-Marathon The testimonials over the years, and 10K will be held on a Sunday, from persons who have come to December 2, and the location remains Negril, again starting at Jamaica to be a part of the event, Long Bay Beach Park on the have been glowing. Norman Manley Boulevard “It was a pleasure for myself and promptly at 5:15 a.m. my mate to run in the Reggae Already, participants from 30 Marathon. It was fabulous as countries have registered, with the always. It was our fifth run and we largest group set to come from the are ready for next year. Thank you Reggae Runnerz club out of the for putting on such a spectacular USA, which has a contingent of event!” wrote Cordell. over 400 runners and supporters. Gerd, a 2016 participant, said: “The event has earned the “A great experience I will not forget reputation of being an this race. The organisation was international event, known for its perfect. Thank you to all who made seamless execution, with elements the race possible.” of fun and music; perfect for those runners who use the opportunity to Persons wishing to participate in visit the island for a ‘runcation’, the race can register on line at specifically to be a part of this great www.reggaemarathon.com or by sporting event,” said Alfred ‘Frano’ mail sent to Reggae Marathon, 87- Francis, race director. From left: Alfred ‘Frano Francis, race director, Reggae Marathon; Donovan White, director of 89 Tower Street, Kingston. Mail He said the race, which is tourism; Diane Ellis, sponsorship director, Reggae Marathon; Ryon Chambers, participant of the entries must be postmarked organised by Jamdammers Running November 23, 2018, at the latest, HiLyte team; Aileen Corrigan, president, Jamdammers Running Club; Ali McNab, adviser to the Club of Kingston, boasts a course while on-line registration will close minister of culture, gender, entertainment and sport; and Ian Kelly, chairman, Reggae, Marathon. that is certified by the IAAF, which on November 28, 2018. There will also serves as a qualifier for any be no registration or package international event requiring collection on race day. qualification for a world record, or Swept Away Sports Complex from from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. they begin until they cross the Among the partners of this year’s to enter such events as the Boston 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on the first day, Immediately following the run on finish line. event are The Jamaica Tourist Marathon, which need a qualifying and from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. on the Sunday, the organisers have Although the run begins at time for participation. second day. planned a Victory Beach Party and 5:15 a.m. on December 2, the Board, Negril Chapter of the Participants in the Reggae On Saturday, December 1, the Awards Ceremony at Long Bay course will remain open for six Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Associa- Marathon, Half Marathon and 10K Negril chapter of the Jamaica Hotel Beach Park, beginning 7 a.m. hours. “However, marathoners must tion, Jamaica Athletics Administra- will need to pick up their packages and Tourist Association will again As in the past, plans have been reach the halfway mark in three tive Association, the Ministry of on both Friday, November 30, and host the signature World’s Best put in place to ensure the comfort hours,” said Francis. There will be Health, and volunteers from Negril Saturday, December 1, at Couples Pasta Party at Couples Swept Away of the participants from the time aid stations every mile, manned by and Green Island, among others. Bartlett appointed to African tourism board TOURISM MINISTER Edmund Bartlett has the hospitality sector in Africa. as leading African travel and tourism companies. sustainable growth, value, and quality of travel been appointed to the board of sitting minis- Other members include Hon José During the unveiling ceremony, the and tourism to, from, and within Africa. ters and appointed public officials of the newly Gonçalves, Cape Verde’s minister of tourism; initiative received endorsement from former The association will provide leadership and formed African Tourism Board association. Hon Minister Mahmoud Kombo, Zanzibar’s secretary general of the United Nations counsel on an individual and collective basis to Bartlett received the appointment while in minister of information, tourism and heritage; World Tourism Organization, Dr Taleb Rifai, its member organisations. It is also expanding London recently, during the official unveiling Pascal Viroleau, CEO, The Vanilla Islands and president of the World Travel Awards, on opportunities for marketing, public relations, of the multinational body at this year’s World Organisation; and Hon Dr Memunatu Pratt, Graham Cooke. investments, branding, and promoting and Travel Market (WTM). The organisation, Sierra Leone’s minister of tourism & culture. The African Tourism Board provides aligned establishing niche markets. which is part of the International Coalition of The leadership of the group also includes a advocacy, insightful research, and innovative The official launch is scheduled to take Tourism Partners, was developed to promote number of international travel journalists, as well events to its members. It aims to enhance the place in Cape Town, South Africa, April 2019.

6 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2018 ADVERTISEMENT HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2018 7 AROUND JS WITH PAUL H. WILLIAMS PHOTOS BY PAUL H. Moon Palace Foundation WILLIAMS A captivating view of the Caribbean Healing in Sea from the Ni Mala Wellness sends workers’kids to Centre in Johns Disney World the east Town, St Thomas. Carl Gilchrist Gleaner Writer WO CHILDREN, whose parents are employed to Moon Palace TJamaica in Ocho Rios, recently People go to the Ni Mala returned to the island after spending their Wellness Centre in Johns Town, prize trip of 10 days at Disney World in St Thomas, “to restore and Florida, USA. The children, Gianna Goldbourne who ascend”. attends St Hilda’s Diocesan High School, WHETHER IT is to the balm yard or to esteem/self-worth, wealth, financial and Adrian Gore, of Ocho Rios High, Bath Fountains, people are always stability, knowledge about your body. It is thoroughly enjoyed themselves, accord- heading to St Thomas to get some also to restore your connectedness to ing to Natalie Boreland, manager, Moon healing. Now, there is another place your spirit, to Earth, the ecosystem, fam- Palace Foundation, which was responsi- that people can travel to, to get a ily, friends, career, and life path. ble for the trips. variety of resuscitations. The transition (death and dying) ses- Each year, the foundation offers the The Ni Mala Wellness Centre is sion is one of many services offered by prizes to the children of members of staff located on the Source Farm at Johns Ni Mala. Others are massages, Reiki, who contribute to the foundation. Town in Paul Bogle’s parish, and meditation, detox, hiking, sweat lodging, recently, I visited a death-and-dying fire ceremonies, bathing, ora cleaning, coaching session there. Not that I am chocolate ceremony, forest bathing, dying, as far as I know, but I attended herbal tours, and hot-mud treatment. Adrian strikes a pose in front the Universal globe. out of curiosity. The session really It also hosts yoga, spiritual, food, plant helped me to understand some of the medicine, meditation, birding, men, sensibilities and philosophies about women, mother-and-daughter, father- death and dying. and-son, birthing, drumming, music, “Ni Mala means igniting the soul,” writers, and artist retreats. The property the Source Farm said, “It is through on which it is located is one of the places igniting the soul that we can align or I go to reconnect to nature when I slack realign to our purpose on Earth. For we off. It is truly one of those away-from- Adrian and Gianna with Mickey and Minnie Mouse. travel here with divine gifts and talents the-madding-crowd spaces, where to fulfil a great purpose for ourselves, nature could be your only companion. “It was awesome!” said Boreland, who, “I was so excited I couldn’t eat my our human family and the Earth. Nia Yet, the healing starts with the along with the parents, accompanied the lunch because I wanted her to go to Mala is a place that will support our breath-stopping views of the sea, and Patrons going through a death-and-dying training session at the Ni Mala children. Disney so much. When I heard that I expansion and remind us of our personal the mountains. You feel like you want to Wellness Centre at Johns Town, St Thomas. “Each day, they went to a different won, oh God, oh God, oh God!” mission and promise.” soar. I wish I had wings. For at Ni Mala location – Disney Park, Universal Studios, Her daughter was just as excited when The idea is to restore your health, self- you “restore and ascend”. Islands of Adventure, Magic Kingdom, she broke the news to her. Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, “She jumped, she screamed, she was so Epcot Centre, Sea World. It was fun for excited. And the trip was great. Now, she them,” Boreland revealed. wants to go back.” Adrian told Hospitality Jamaica that At the same time, a group of five from he was sick on the day when the draw was Palace Foundation in Mexico was also made to select the winners. there on a prize trip. “All the kids bonded “I was sick that day but when I heard I well and I’m sure Gianna and Adrian won, I was instantly better,” he said. would have made lifelong friends,” Gold- It was a dream come true for me bourne added. because I was always telling my parents to carry me there. It was terrific! I was able to For the past three years, transportation meet a lot of people from different cultures. for the trip has been provided by Delta I enjoyed seeing some of my favourite char- Airlines, and this year, Gianna and Adrian acters. Thank you, Moon Palace Jamaica were able to take a photograph with one and Miss Natalie Boreland.” of the airline captains, much to their Gianna’s mother, Beverly Goldbourne, satisfaction. Adrian and Gianna at Universal said that when she heard she had won the The hotel’s vacation club sponsored A section of the gift shop at the Ni Mala Wellness Centre in Johns Town, Natalie Boreland with Adrian and Gianna. Orlando Resort. trip, she was very excited. accommodation for the group. St Thomas. The Ni Mala Wellness Centre in Johns Town, St Thomas.

8 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2018 9 From left: Senior Adviser/strategist to the tourism minister Delano Seiveright; Jamaica Tourist Chef Wenford Simpson’s Escoveitch Whiting Fish with Curry Board’s Regional Director Odette Dyer; JHTA President, Omar Robinson; Jamaica’s Minister of Succotash at the Toast of Brooklyn, hosted by the Jamaica Tourism Edmund Bartlett; and Jamaica’s Director of Tourism, Donovan White (second from left), Tourist Board. welcomed Captain Matthew Galla, and First Officer Joseph Maniscalco of the Frontier Airlines new flight from North Carolina to Montego Bay. Toast of Brooklyn THE JAMAICA Tourist Board (JTB) showcased the island’s flavourful Jamaica welcomes new cuisine at the 11th annual Toast of Brooklyn Wine & Food Festival held in the Williamsburg neighborhood of Brooklyn. The JTB partnered with Celebrity Chef Wenford P. Simpson, a Walkerswood ambassador who served up an open-face Jerk Chicken Taco with Mango Chutney and service from North Escoveitch Whiting Fish with Curry Succotash that were a big hit with attendees. Toast of Brooklyn is an annual fall event that combines the distinctive, Carolina to MoBay eclectic taste of Brooklyn’s culinary experience with wines and spirits from around the world. For this year’s event, organisers partnered with the Caribbean Tourism Organisation to bring chefs from the Caribbean to on Frontier Airlines highlight signature dishes. AMAICA’S MINISTER of Tourism, the Hon Edmund JBartlett, and Director of Tourism Donovan White were on hand to officially welcome Frontier Airlines’ inaugural flight between North Carolina and Montego Bay on Saturday, November 17. Flights are scheduled to operate twice per week – Saturday and Wednesday – using an Airbus A320 aircraft with a seating capacity of 168. This means that the destination Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett greets a passenger has the potential to welcome an Marcia Sinclair, district sales manager, Jamaica Tourist Board, from North Carolina at the Sangster International Airport. additional 336 passengers in a and celebrity Chef Wenford P. Simpson share a taste of Jamaica given week as a result of this with patrons attending the 11th annual Toast of Brooklyn. new service if loads perform at 100 per cent capacity. The Frontier’s RDU/MBJ service, contributes significantly to the 38,000 additional seats that will serve Jamaica for the upcoming peak season. In addition to the RDU/MBJ service, Frontier is also set to introduce scheduled services Jamaica’s Director of Tourism Donovan White welcome passen- from Philadelphia to MBJ this gers on the new flight from North Carolina to Montego Bay with winter with their inaugural necklaces shortly after the Frontier Airlines Flight Airbus A320 flight slated for Sunday, Chef Wenford Simpson open-face Jerk Chicken Taco with touched down at the Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay. February 10, 2019. Mango chutney at the Toast of Brooklyn.

10 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2018 PSRA graduates, representing 14 entities and one individual party, gather for a photograph with (from left) Julian Patrick – director of product development and Community tourism, TPDCo; Floyd Green, minister of state in the Ministry of Education, Youth and Information; and Dr Andrew Spencer, executive director, TPDCo Ltd. Treasure Beach positively impacted by the seismic shift in Tourism HE PARISH of St Elizabeth was pleased with the outcome that observes another milestone “This is the thrust two licensed entities that participat- Tas the Tourism Product of an organisation ed will become compliant after Development Company Ltd. obtaining certification. (TPDCo) celebrated 25 that understands Four of the 12 unlicensed entities representatives from 14 entities and are in the process of obtaining the one individual completing the what a developed outstanding documents to apply for a Jamaica Tourist Board licence, Private Security Regulation Authority Newly PSRA certified Jermaine Baker of Jakes Holdings Ltd, nation ought to and eight remaining entities will be (PSRA) training programme the receives his certificate from the Honourable Floyd Green, minis- facilitated by the TPDCo until they Treasure Beach community. look like.” are formalised. ter of state, in the ministry of education, youth and information, Executive Director of TPDCo He pledged to continue working at the graduation ceremony held at Bred’s Sports Complex on Dr Andrew Spencer, in his keynote with the entities so that none of November 22, 2018. address at the graduation ceremony, worldwide. “We have to be pre- pared,” he argued. them would be left behind. said that there was a seismic shift in The PSRA training programme, Green, in his remarks, said that only way forward in the industry Mecca of community-based tourism Jamaica owing to the strides being a by-product of the Spruce-Up the initiative was important was through partnerships. “We are initiatives, in Treasure Beach. made in the tourism sector. Jamaica campaign, is an because the best way to build a fostering an industry that strives for The initiative falls under the “This is the thrust of an amalgamated initiative with the tourism product was to start with boundless inclusivity across the hand-holding services exercised by organisation that understands island with all individuals who con- TPDCo and Minister of State, in the human resources. the TPDCo in an effort to ensure what a developed nation ought to He noted the importance of tribute, even in the minutest man- the Ministry of Education, Youth that all tourism entities in the look like.” and Information Floyd Green. ensuring that all the entities are ner, to the tourism product, and, by He lauded Minister of Tourism The project is aimed at licensed and have certified extension, Brand Jamaica.” sector are compliant with the Edmund Bartlett for his foresight, improving the compliance rate in employees in their establishment. The TPDCo will maintain the various laws and regulations that particularly at a time when the south coast properties. Spencer lauded the collaboration, relationship with Minister Green to are complementary to the Tourist ground is shifting in the industry Spencer also said that the agency stating that it was evidence that the continue to further develop the Board Act.

HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2018 11 The recently upgraded Lyssons UPGRADEDUPGRADED LYSSONSLYSSONS Beach in St Thomas. BEACHBEACH OFOFFICIALLYFICIALLY OPENEDOPENED

Paul H. Williams Hospitality Jamaica Writer T WAS all smiles as the ribbons were cut to signal the official Iopening of the upgraded Lyssons Beach in St Thomas on Thursday, November 15. Officials witnessing the opening were Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett, executive director of the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF) Dr Carey Wallace, Eastern St Thomas Member of Parliament Dr Fenton Ferguson, Dr Michelle Charles, Tourism Product Development Company (TPDCo) executive director Dr Andrew The bar at Lyssons Beach. Spencer, Mayor of Morant Bay Councillor Michael Hue, and Jamaica Labour Party candidate for Eastern Portland Ann-Marie Vaz. The beach was part of an old sugar estate whose factories were operated by a windmill. The estate was last owned by Custos Tony Phillips, who sold it to the Govern- ment many years ago. Phillips is A rehabilitated walkway at the recently upgraded Lyssons buried in a private cemetery not far Beach. from the beach. Ten acres, including a fishing and staff. The eastern bay became a the bathing beach, was abandoned beach, were made a public beach, fishing village.The then St Thomas for over 30 years. It became covered while a section of the western bay Parish Council took over the by bush and garbage. was given to The University of the management of the property but Some parishioners tried to lease failed to care it. The middle section, it to restore it as a public beach, Shower facilities at Lyssons Beach, St Thomas. West Indies to be used by students

12 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2018 Ainsley Henriques of Eastern Attractions managed the Swimmers Bay Beach at Lyssons for 14 years before it was handed back to the Government. Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett plays lifeguard for a moment as he chats with (from left) Dr Michelle Charles; Dr Andrew Spencer, but it was not until the National Land Agency took it over that the executive director of the Tourism Product Development Company; and Eastern St Thomas Member of Parliament Dr Fenton Ferguson. TPDCo became the main lessee. Then, an entity, Eastern Attractions, a not-for-profit company, led by Ainsley Henriques and made up of St Thomas residents, sublet and undertook the restoration of the beach. With millions of dollars raised from the Environmental Foundation of Jamaica, Eastern Attractions turned a quarter mile of beach and some seven acres of land into lawns. There were three roofless building shells on the site. One was trans- formed into a bath and changing room, another into an office and a From left: Dr Carey Wallace, executive director of the Tourism bar. A shed was also restored and an Enhancement Fund; Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett, Member of old toilet block destroyed. Parliament for Eastern St Thomas Dr Fenton Ferguson; Dr Michelle For 14 years, Eastern Attractions Charles; Dr Andrew Spencer, executive director of the Tourism managed the beach, known as Product Development Company; Mayor of Morant Bay Councillor Swimmers Bay, without charging Michael Hue; and JLP Member of Parliament Ann-Marie Vaz. A gazebo at Lyssons Beach admission fees. The main source of income came from parking and economy, minimise the rural urban tourism in the parish. changing-room fees. A few years the lower driveway and parking area embarked upon phase two of the drift, and drive inclusive and A total of $49 million was ago, when the Government were rehabilitated; and an outdoor project, which included the con- sustainable development. We can provided by the TEF for the embarked on a policy to provide shower was put in place. struction of a wooden perimeter agree that the parish of St Thomas upgrade of Swimmers Bay under its funding for the upgrading of public However, Eastern Attractions fence and the fabrication of a needs this at this time. In fact, the National Beach Development beaches, Eastern Attractions would have to be responsible for chain-link fence for demarcation Government of Jamaica has Programme. Other beaches wanted Swimmers Bay to be the future repairs, but knowing that the purposes. Seats were constructed targeted the parish for special upgraded through the programme second beach to access the funds, beach could not generate revenues around the trees on the beach, and developmental focus, and tourism are Marking Stone Beach in St and under its supervision, work for such repairs, it decided that the the parking lot and driveway were has been selected as a key driver for Mary and Burwood Beach in started on the upgrade. lease would have to be modified or completed. that development.” Trelawny. Salem Beach in Runaway Restrooms were renovated; the terminated. The latter happened, In addressing the gathering at Thus, the minister said that his Bay, St Ann, is next on the list, sewerage was upgraded; five but the beach continued to be man- the opening ceremony, Minister ministry has commissioned a while another 12 beaches are in the gazebos, a footbridge, a guardhouse, aged for free by Eastern Attractions. Bartlett said, among other things, tourism destination assessment of design stage for this financial year, and walkways were constructed; Last year, TPDCo took over the “Tourism development is a means St Thomas with a view to under- according to a release from the three lifeguard stands were erected; management of Swimmers Bay and by which we can diversify a local standing the current state of Ministry of Tourism.

HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2018 13 A ‘wedding’ TO REMEMBER Paul H. Williams Hospitality Jamaica Writer HERE WAS a blushing bride (Mockalea Gordon) dressed Tin white; a doting groom (Sedayne Samuels) with an ear-to- The ‘bride’ and ‘groom’ kiss shortly after ‘exchanging vows’. ear smile; a maid of honour and two bridesmaids, one of whom marched down the aisle alone because one of the two groomsmen was late; and a best man. A flower girl sprinkled blue petals; a proud giveaway father handed over his daughter to the groom; the couple exchanged wedding vows and rings; the bride and groom kissed passionately in front of the officiating minister, Witcliffe Doyley, whose utterances and shenanigans gave the witnesses stitches. But it was the kiss, rather the kisses, that sent the gathering into an uproar. And that last one, when the bride embraced the groom and closed her eyes, is one that Samuels will never forget. Minutes before the nuptials, it seemed like the knots were not going to be tied under the mango tree. The skies were dark, and water droplets fell from them on to the chairs and the white carpet on which the bridal party was to march. Horrors of horrors! It was going to rain on their parade. But, the organisers were spared the hassle of putting plan B into action. The rain held up, and under the watching eyes of onlookers, the couple exchanged vows and rings. They were now husband and From left: ‘Bridesmaids’ Trinel Commrie and Chantel Punanay, wife.Through a guard of honour, and maid of honour Dacian Meade. the young husband carried away his new wife to sign the register as unveiling and a cutting of the cake, who played the role of bride and guests cheered wildly. after which the bride and groom fed groom were not legally married. In the reception hall, decorated each other, much to everybody’s The mock wedding, which they in blue, orange and white motifs, delight. There was much fun and and their second-year classmates elegantly dressed guests waited for games, the tossing of the bouquet, planned and executed, was in the bridal party to appear. When it and a proposal to the young woman partial fulfilment of the did, there were more cheers and who caught it by the groomsman requirements for passing their flashing cameras. At the head table who came late. meetings and events management the party sat, and the formalities It all took place on the Camp course in pursuance of their were continued by an emcee, who Road campus of St Andrew’s Excel- associate of science degree in should not sing, but who did a good sior Community College on Friday, tourism hospitality and job of engaging the diners. November 16, only that it was not a entertainment management. The ‘groom’ escorts the ‘bride’ down the aisle. There was a serenade, and an real wedding, and the two students According to their lecturer,

14 HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2018 Guests cheer as the ‘bride’ and ‘groom’ enter the reception.

From left: Best man Brad Gooden, and groomsmen Devonte Palmer and Tajee Brown.

The ‘groom’ and ‘bride’ cut the cake.

their weight; there was a lot of support she needed, and there were The ‘groom’ puts on the ring while the ‘officiating’ minister, cohesiveness and team work that some fundraising challenges. Witcliffe Doyley, looks on. made the function what it was, However, she said, “I am so glad it which was awesome, and I liked it,” was a success. Apart from the rain Marsha Gowie-Phillips, they were programme, the flow of the activities, Gowie-Phillips said, when asked to messing everything up at the provided with the “prerequisite food services, etc. They were also give a feedback. beginning, I really think we wowed knowledge”, which they were required to evaluate their own efforts. In her assessment, manager of the lecturers. expected to apply. “I was very impressed, to start the event, Sashana Christie, who And as for the ‘bride’ and The students were evaluated on with. My expectations were at a also serenaded the ‘couple’, said she ‘groom’, if for whatever reason they pre-event activities, the relevance of particular point. I am proud of had mixed feeling at certain points do not get married in real life, they Otelia McPherson serenading the presenters, the event’s them. I feel like everybody pulled as she felt she was not getting the have got a ‘wedding’ to remember. the ‘bride’ and ‘groom’.

HOSPITALITY JAMAICA | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2018 15 Passenger numbers could double to 8.2 billion in 2037

HE INTERNATIONAL Air This February 23, 2011, file photo shows Transport Association United Airlines planes taxiing at San (IATA) revealed that present T Francisco International Airport in San trends in air transport suggest that passenger numbers could double to Francisco. 8.2 billion in 2037. The latest update to IATA’s 20- Year Air Passenger Forecast shows that an increasing shift Eastwards in the centre of gravity of the industry is behind the continued strong growth. Over the next two decades, the forecast anticipates a 3.5 per cent compound annual growth rate (CAGR), leading to a doubling in passenger numbers from today’s levels. The association warned, however, that growth prospects for air trans- port, and the economic benefits driven by aviation, could be cur- tailed if protectionist measures are implemented by governments. “Aviation is growing, and that is generating huge benefits for the world. A doubling of air passengers in the next 20 years could support 100 million jobs globally. There are two important things that stand out about this year’s forecast. First, we are seeing a geographical reshuffling of world air traffic to mid-2020s. The rebalancing of globalisation’ scenario, aviation protectionism will see and cutting CO2 emissions to half the East. And second, we foresee a China’s economy towards would continue to grow but at a opportunities lost,” said de Juniac. 2005 levels by 2050. significant negative impact on the consumption will support strong slower pace and deliver fewer “Commercial aviation is one of growth and benefits of aviation if passenger demand over the long economic and social benefits. INFRASTRUCTURE AND the only global industries to take tough and restrictive protectionist term. Under a liberalised environment, SUSTAINABILITY on such comprehensive environ- measures are implemented,” said India will take third place after connectivity would generate No matter which growth mental targets. With mandatory Alexandre de Juniac, IATA’s the US, surpassing the UK around significantly more jobs and scenario comes to pass, aviation emissions reporting beginning on 1 director general and CEO. 2024. GDP growth. faces an infrastructure crisis. January 2019 under the Carbon Indonesia is forecast to be a “Global prosperity depends on Governments must work closely Offsetting and Reduction Scheme Eastward shift in standout performer, climbing from air connectivity. Aviation is with the industry to be more for International Aviation, this will the world’s 10th largest aviation sensitive to policies that either ambitious in developing efficient help rally the industry to invest in aviation’s centre of market in 2017 to the fourth largest support or undermine growth. And infrastructure, fit for purpose, and more fuel-efficient aircraft and sustainable aviation fuels,” said by 2030. these seem to be pointing in the offering value for money. gravity continues de Juniac. Thailand is expected to enter the wrong direction. Dampening “The world stands to benefit The Asia-Pacific region will top 10 markets in 2030, replacing demand for air connectivity risks greatly from better connectivity. KEY FACTS drive the biggest growth, with Italy ,which drops out of the high-quality jobs and economic However, at this rate, airports and Fastest-growing aviation markets more than half the total number of air traffic control will not be able to ranking. activity dependent on global in terms of annual additional O-D new passengers over the next 20 handle demand. Governments and mobility. passengers from 2017 to 2037 years coming from these markets. infrastructure operators must strate- “This forecast is a cautionary (constant policies scenario): Growth in this market is being Globalisation reversed gically plan for the future. Decisions warning to governments. First, the China: 1 billion new passengers driven by a combination of made now will have an impact on for a total of 1.6 billion or liberalisation industry will grow, but they must continued robust economic growth, the value created by aviation for US: 481 million new passengers increased? clear the infrastructure bottlenecks improvements in household their regions,” said de Juniac. for a total of 1.3 billion incomes, and favourable population The 3.5 per cent CAGR to 2037 to bring that growth to their home The increased demand to fly India: 414 million new passengers and demographic profiles. assumes an unchanged policy markets. And second, governments creates a responsibility to expand for a total of 572 million China will displace the United framework over that period. Policy must understand that globalisation in a sustainable manner. The Indonesia: 282 million new States as the world’s largest aviation shifts, however, are likely over has made our world more socially aviation industry remains passengers for a total of 411 million market (defined as traffic to, from, time. Should protectionism and economically prosperous. committed to its goals of carbon- Thailand: 116 million new pas- and within the country) in the continue to expand in a ‘reverse Inhibiting globalisation with neutral growth from 2020 onwards sengers for a total of 214 million

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