Jamaica Tourism ‘In A Good Place’

Jamaican Tourism Minister Wykeham McNeill gave an upbeat assessment on the state of Jamaican tourism Sunday during the opening of Jamaica’s tourism show, JAPEX in Montego Bay.

McNeill cited numerous new hotel openings on the island – including Riu, Melia, Blue Diamond and Karisma properties – and the refurbishment of others.

Last year, Jamaica topped the two-million mark in stopover arrivals, leading McNeill to declare, “We’re in a good place in tourism in Jamaica… We continue to grow out of every source market to Jamaica.”

Visitations are up 2.4% to date this year. Tourism officials are increasingly citing adventure and cultural activities in a destination that has traditionally attracted beach tourists. They are also promoting city tourism.

Pictured at JAPEX are tourism consultant Carrole Guntley, McNeill and Carol Burke of Jewel Resorts.