KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaica will become even more accessible for travelers from South Florida with the commencement of twice daily non-stop flights from Fort Lauderdale to Kingston on JetBlue Airways. The new service begins April 30, 2012 and runs through October 22, 2012.
“JetBlue’s new service from Fort Lauderdale is a welcome addition, especially as the destination celebrates its 50th Anniversary of Independence this summer,” said John Lynch, Director of Tourism. “We’re calling Jamaicans overseas and non-Jamaicans alike to visit and help us celebrate. The south Florida market includes a large Diaspora community that we hope will take advantage of the new flight and JetBlue Airways’ competitive pricing.”
The twice daily service departs Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport (FLL)
at 7:00 a.m. and 4:50 p.m., arriving at the Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston (KIN) at 7:45 a.m. and 5:35 p.m., respectively. The return flights depart Kingston at 9:00 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., arriving Fort Lauderdale at 11:45 a.m. and 9:15 p.m., respectively.
Below is a sampling of events in the Kingston area for visitors to take part in this summer.
SPORTS
JN Jamaica International Invitational, May 5: Sports lovers are in for a treat in what could be seen as an Olympic preview. Usain Bolt will lead a host of Olympic and World champions to the capital city for the IAAF World Challenge JN Jamaica International Invitational Meet. The event will be held at the National Stadium on Saturday, May 5. The meet will feature the likes of World 100m men’s and women’s champion Yohan Blake and Carmelita Jeter of the USA, defending Olympic 100m champion Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Olympic 400m hurdles champion Melaine Walker, and former 100m world record holder Asafa Powell.
FASHION
StyleWeek Jamaica/ FashionBlock, May 23 – 30: Fashionistas from around the world will make a statement in the entertainment capital as organizers Saint International stage its 6th annual Style Week Jamaica. Style Week Jamaica/Fashion-Block, has become a major event on the Jamaican entertainment and fashion calendar. The three-day extravaganza includes multiple after parties, VIP cocktail receptions, fashion seminars and glamorous runway shows.
Caribbean Fashion Week, June 7 – 11: The region’s premier fashion and style event, will again be held at the National Indoor Sports Centre in the nation’s capital highlighting the “best of the best” in fashion as they celebrate over ten years in the industry. Truth be told, the fashion collections continue to take centre stage, but the added performances, not to mention the parties, are fun and fabulous.
MUSIC
Live Music Nation, Yearlong: Those eager to check out Kingston’s music scene can experience Live Music Nation, by attending one of the city’s weekly live music events, free to the public. Each week music-lovers can enjoy 90-minute sets of Jamaican beats while enjoying the island’s signature cuisine and beverages. Visit the Live Music Nation website for venues as they change weekly.
