Jamaica is encouraging Americans to get their passports through a series of value added and educational programs created in response to the new U.S. passport regulations. Two programs are being announced by the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) and the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) offering incentives for travelers who obtain new passports, and providing opportunities that make it convenient for potential travelers to sign up for their passports.

Jamaica’s new “Passport to Rewards” Program

Visitors who travel to Jamaica after January 8, 2007 with new passports and have Jamaica as the first port of entry stamped in their new passport, will receive special credits during their stay that equal the standard amount spent on applying for a U.S. passport. These incentives may include hotel services such as spa treatments, golf greens fees, attraction tour fees, room upgrades, extra nights, gift shop and photo shop purchases, and more.

Participating hotels will offer the various incentives through December 2007. Services and amenities provided by hotels will equal the U.S. dollar amount spent on each new passport: $97 per adult and $82 per child for new passports. Details for participating hotels will vary. For more information go to http://www.visitjamaica.com/rewards.

Jamaican Morning Coffee Breaks

On November 15, The Jamaica Tourist Board will launch a series of Jamaica Morning Coffee Breaks to be held at major commuter terminals in New York, Chicago and Washington, D.C. Consumers can actually apply for their passports on-site or collect the necessary forms. Free Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee will be offered as well as information on Jamaica travel and new passport requirements. Commuters will need to have all necessary documents if they want to apply at the events. This program will continue in additional major U.S. markets through mid-winter 2007.

Jamaica For Honeymooners and Families

Jamaica is a popular location for honeymooners, those planning destination weddings, and families. The Jamaica Tourist Board encourages couples and families to include getting their passports on their “must do” list as they plan honeymoons and family vacations.

“Jamaica realizes how important it is to educate Americans about the new passport regulations, and to encourage travelers to apply for their passports as soon as possible,” said Hon. Aloun N’dombet-Assamba, Minister Of Tourism, Entertainment and Culture, Jamaica. “These initiatives are designed to make the application process easier, as well as to provide an incentive to make Jamaica the first stop upon receiving a passport.”

For more information about the passport requirements and Jamaica’s passport initiatives, go to http://www.visitjamaica.com .
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