JAMAICA AND other countries in the Caribbean have been receiving increased attention at this year's World Travel Market Trade Show being held at the ExCel Centre in the Docklands, London this week.
"One of the interesting things about the show this year is the focus that is being given to Jamaica and the Caribbean. There seems to be a lot more people interested in the region," said State Minister for Tourism, Dr. Wyke-ham McNeill.
Dr. McNeill said that while some of the increased interest could be attributed to the fall-out affecting some Asian destinations caused by the bomb attack in Bali last month, Jamaica and the region had a good product to market.
He said this year's world travel market show has been positive for Jamaica, and from all indications, the sector should benefit.
"Things are looking up for tourism for next year and although we are keeping our eyes on developments in the world... such as Iraq, there should be an upturn for the island," Dr. McNeill said.
The State Minister said that with the new Chairman of the Jamaica Tourist Board now in place and a new Board before Cabinet for approval, the island's overall marketing strategy would be given priority attention.
He said it was important that Jamaica participated in international shows such as the World Travel Market Trade Show, and expressed satisfaction at the level of this year's private sector participation from Jamaica.
In addition to the all-inclusive chains such as Sandals, Couples and SuperClubs, which have booths at the travel show, several other resorts and smaller hotels, including Half Moon and Round Hill, are participating.
The World Travel Market is the second largest and most important tourism and travel trade show in the world. This year's show, which ends on November 14, has attracted more than 5,000 exhibitors from 183 countries.
