Jamaica has recorded a buoyant first half for visitor arrivals into Jamaica,
according to latest figures from the Jamaica Tourist Board. Figures for June
are just in and have topped off a strong six months.
Jamaica Tourist Board’s Regional Director for UK/Europe, David Barber
welcomed the news and added that the increase in UK visitors is right on
target for June 2004.

“The UK arrivals figures for June 2004 were almost exactly on our target
figures. This is the culmination of a strong second quarter for 2004.  We
enjoyed a very strong first quarter for visitor arrivals, and the second
quarter has also performed strongly.  Early figures for July are looking
promising,” said Mr Barber.

Visitor arrivals from the UK increased 14% for the period January to June
2004 compared with the same period for 2003. This compares favourably with
increases from other countries over the same period with the whole of Europe
recording a 14.7% increase, the US on 8.4%, and Canada on 12.6%. For this
period there was a 9.4% increase in total tourist arrivals into Jamaica compared to 2003.

“The strong pound sterling against the US dollar continues to be a factor,
as UK travellers to Jamaica have increased buying power for hotels, car
rentals, shopping and sightseeing. However I think more and more people are
realising just what an amazing place Jamaica is for people seeking a holiday
destination with a difference.”

Barber continued, “Jamaica is already well known for high quality
accommodation and world-class cuisine, but it also has a wide range of
cultural attractions including Great Houses and historic plantations. There
are so many options to explore this wonderful country including horseback
riding, river tubing, jeep safaris and swimming with dolphins.”

Montego Bay has also just been confirmed as the venue for the Caribbean
Marketplace in January 2005.  Half Moon Resort, Montego Bay will act as host
hotel.  This event brings together Caribbean tourism suppliers from 36
Caribbean destinations to meet with qualified international buyers -
wholesalers, incentive buyers, meeting planners, group buyers and dive shop
owners - from around the world. 

“Jamaica will also play host to a range of leisure events over the coming
months, another reason to choose Jamaica as a destination. These include the
Tiger Woods Golf Foundation Clinic, the Caribbean Music Expo, the Port
Antonio International Marlin Tournament, and the National Art Exhibition.
There’s definitely something for everyone in Jamaica” Barber concluded.
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