The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) began its inaugural European trade show with a dinner at the Moon Palace Hotel in Ocho Rios, St Ann on Thursday (September 15).

Jamaica is looking to eastern Europe to attract even more visitors to one of the world’s top tourism destinations.

The COVID pandemic drastically reduced the number of visitors coming to Jamaica. The second half of this year has seen a most encouraging rebound and as many as 200,000 tourists are expected for the month of September, which bodes well for a bumper winter season

Here is Chairman John Lynch’s full address:

It is with a great sense of pride that I greet you today and welcome you to Jamaica.

Welcome to the place that gave the world Reggae music!

Welcome to the place that gave the world the ‘Jerk’ cuisine!

Welcome to the place that boasts the fastest man-Usain Bolt and fastest woman alive-Shelly Ann Fraser Pryce!

We at the Jamaica Tourist Board are always very happy and delighted to expose visitors and partners to the beauty and essence of Jamaica. Your presence in Jamaica is a signature opportunity for the building of a mutually beneficial relationship. It is important to state that you represent the first group of tour operators from Eastern Europe that we have hosted.

I know you are here because Jamaica has piqued your interest, and you will not be disappointed. I have perused your company stories, and there are many areas of collaboration. Our track record of solid relationships with our European partners in decades in the making. Jamaica is ready made for your clients.

You have been very enthusiastic in your pursuit of doing business with us as you believe that Jamaica will be a valuable addition to the destinations you sell your clients.

I couldn’t agree with you more. Yes Jamaica ticks many of the boxes on the bucket list of your clients such as golf, destination weddings, sustainable activities, boutique properties, off-the-beaten track experiences, community-based experiences and more.

During your time with us, you will understand why people around the world talk highly about our culture, our music, our food, our language, our beaches, our topography and our warm and unforgettable people.

Tourism has been one of the leading industries for our economy. We are fully aware that the success which we enjoy is due in part to the impact of the hard work of our partners. Tour operators like yourselves, have been very supportive in spreading our message to the wider audience. We are truly appreciative of your support.

The next few days will be very dynamic, not only will you engage in business-to-business meetings with partners in our tourism sector, but you will also be getting immersed into all things Jamaican.

I know this trip will not only be enjoyable, but that your experiences here will also empower you to promote destination Jamaica even better. I encourage you to work hard, but also play hard, and soak up our cultural diversity and unparalleled beauty.

We look forward to working with all of you, and again, welcome to Jamaica.