KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Jamaica Tourist Board is reporting a strong 2011 in tourism arrivals from the Latin American region with a record 23.4 percent increase in stopover arrivals compared to 2010.
Last year, Jamaica welcomed over 16,000 Latin American visitors with the majority coming from markets such as Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, and Panama. In December alone, Jamaica recorded a 36.6% increase in visitor arrivals, attributable in part to the new airlift from Copa Airlines, which started that month.
The Jamaica Tourist Board also credits the increase to the lifting of visa restrictions for travelers from Panama, Venezuela, and Colombia. Expectations are that this will result in continued growth from this market in 2012.
“Jamaica’s steady tourism growth is a testament to our continued dedication to providing the best value for our visitors,” said John Lynch, Jamaica’s Director of Tourism. “With new and refreshed accommodations and attractions, plus enhanced infrastructure and quality service, we are ensuring that our diversified product will continue to attract both new and repeat visitors. We look forward to another year of tourism growth in Jamaica, as we continue to foster a strong relationship with Latin American travelers and boost airlift from this region.”
Jamaica’s accommodations range from luxury resorts to charming cottages and inns, all focusing on top-notch service, and restaurants to fit any taste and price point. The destination includes more than 120 rivers, stunning waterfalls and white sand beaches. A year-round vacation destination, some of Jamaica’s other diverse activities include hiking the Blue Mountains, bird-watching, award-winning festivals, caving in the Cockpit Country, zip-lining, horseback riding, cliff diving, rainforest bobsledding, deep sea fishing, bicycle tours, dog-sledding, dolphin and shark encounters, world-class golfing, duty-free shopping, and more.
