Jamaica Tourist Board Underscores Authenticity Of The Jamaican Travel Experience at Caribbean Tourism Conference

KINGSTON, Jamaica – The 30th Annual Caribbean Tourism Conference & Trade Exhibition (CTC-30) in Puerto Rico concluded on October 24. In presentations and discussions, the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) reinforced Jamaica’s leadership position as a culturally rich destination that delivers an authentic travel experience, and identified the Jamaican people as the country’s greatest asset.

High-Quality Experiences

Minister of Tourism The Hon. Edmund Bartlett emphasized the destination’s capacity for providing an on-island experience that fully represents the Jamaican culture with genuine sincerity in every detail. “We are seeing a concentration of growth in the luxury market,” he remarked, “and gimmickry has no allure for the luxury traveller.

Visitors pay for high-quality experiences that are unique, spectacular and authentic. In Jamaica, they enjoy interaction with local residents, then go home with real adventures to recount and enduring memories of special moments that distinguish their stay.”

Echoing this observation, Director of Tourism Basil Smith commented: “The Jamaican travel experience is shaped by our exceptionally rich history and cultural legacy. Visitors come for much more than our beaches. They return again and again to enjoy the authentic Jamaica, with our music and dance, our art and literature, and a distinctive cuisine. And of course, they come to enjoy the warm hospitality of the Jamaican people.”

A Genuine Welcome

Director Smith identified the people as the destination’s most valuable asset. “The inimitable Jamaican joie de vivre radiates a genuine welcome,” he said, “and is the catalyst for so many activities that have become a magnet for visitors.”

Among the on-island festivities that echo this Jamaican warmth and upbeat lifestyle are many annual events now enjoyed by locals and visitors together. They generate a spontaneous camaraderie and reflect the spirit of everyday life in Jamaica. Highlights include:

 Air Jamaica Jazz & Blues Festival
 Jamaica Invitational Pro-Am
 Calabash International Literary Festival
 Kingston Restaurant Week
 Reggae Marathon
 Ocho Rios International Jazz Festival
 Carnival
 Fun in The Son