The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) is looking forward to welcoming more UK and European MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Events) business to the island in 2005 and will be targeting visitors at IMEX in Frankfurt from 19-21 April.The JTB is continuing its reinforced marketing emphasis to attract UK and European meetings and incentive business to capitalise on the growing trend of the Caribbean as a preferred long haul destination for these markets.

JTB Regional Director for UK/Europe, Elizabeth Fox is spearheading this drive to position Jamaica as the preferred Caribbean destination for planners in the UK and Europe.

At IMEX 2005, the Jamaica Tourist Board, will be joined on its exhibition stand (F120), by a number of its partners including Half Moon Montego Bay; Sunset Jamaica Grande; Wyndham Rose Hall; Jamaica Tours Ltd; Caribic Vacations; SuperClubs; Great Vacations and Air Jamaica.

A number of initiatives will be rolled out over the coming months, including:

A UK regional (Manchester, Leeds and London) roadshow from 25-29th April following IMEX.Ê Joining the JTB on this roadshow will be representatives from Half Moon Montego Bay: Sunset Jamaica Grande; SuperClubs; Jamaica Tours Ltd; Wyndham Hotels; Great Vacations; Sandals, Ritz Carlton and Air Jamaica.

The JTB will also be extending invitations to UK/European planners and buyers to attend JAMEX (Jamaica Meetings Exchange) in Jamaica from 11-15 June.

JAMEX has historically focused on the North American market, but because of increased demand out of Europe, this year’s event is targeting planners and buyers from the UK and Europe.

JAMEX will present planners and buyers with the ideal opportunity to experience firsthand Jamaica’s extensive and sophisticated conference facility product which is supported by a diverse range of attractions, a rich cultural heritage and above all natural beauty.

The JTB will also launch a new CD-Rom highlighting Jamaica’s MICE offer.

Jamaica is an attractive destination for both UK and European offshore planners considering long haul destinations, due primarily to the diversity of the product, varied attractions and excellent airlift. Additionally, the strength of sterling and euro against the US dollar means that UK and Europeans availing of the island’s extensive MICE facilities will find their money goes further in Jamaica.

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