Travel Advisors Play a Vital Role in Jamaica’s Tourism Development

Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett, recently highlighted the invaluable contribution of travel advisors in driving the growth of Jamaica’s tourism industry. During a special luncheon held to honor top travel advisors in Northeast America on April 13, Minister Bartlett commended the dedication and resilience of these advisors, particularly during the challenging times brought about by the pandemic.

Reflecting on the impact of the pandemic on the travel industry, Minister Bartlett emphasized the crucial role played by travel advisors in promoting Jamaica as a safe and desirable destination for travelers. He praised their efforts in selling the destination and reassuring clients about the safety measures in place, which ultimately helped Jamaica to reopen its borders on June 15, 2020.

Minister Bartlett credited the United States for playing a significant role in Jamaica’s tourism recovery, with one million visitors welcomed within a year of the destination’s reopening, 800 thousand of whom were from the US. He highlighted the impressive statistic that out of the 4.1 million visitors received last year, 3 million were from the United States, showcasing the strong partnership between Jamaica and its US visitors.

Furthermore, Minister Bartlett revealed that the market share of US visitors to Jamaica has increased from 63% to approximately 74% between 2020 and now, indicating a growing demand for the destination. He attributed this success to the efforts of travel advisors who continue to champion brand Jamaica and promote the country as a top travel destination.

Overall, Minister Bartlett’s remarks underscored the vital role that travel advisors play in driving Jamaica’s tourism growth and success, highlighting their dedication and commitment to promoting the destination to travelers from around the world.