## Jamaica’s Sustainable Tourism Leadership Earns Global Acclaim: Hon. Edmund Bartlett Wins Prestigious Award
Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, has been recognized for his visionary leadership in sustainable tourism, earning top honors at the International Tourism Investment Conference (ITIC). The award, presented at the ITIC Global Tourism Investment Summit held in London, is a testament to Jamaica’s commitment to fostering responsible and resilient tourism growth.
The ITIC summit, a key event in the World Travel Market (WTM) lineup, brings together tourism ministers, industry visionaries, and top leaders in travel and hospitality, creating a platform for connecting with prospective investors. Minister Bartlett’s commitment to sustainable tourism and resilience has placed Jamaica at the forefront of the global tourism conversation. Through his initiatives, the nation has successfully integrated environmental sustainability and community empowerment into its tourism model, setting a global example in tourism resilience.
Jamaica’s Unprecedented Growth and Thriving Cultural Scene
With 3 million visitors to date in 2024, Jamaica is experiencing unprecedented tourism growth. The nation is poised for even stronger performance in 2025, fueled by exciting new luxury hotel launches and a vibrant schedule of cultural events showcasing Jamaica’s unique heritage and culinary diversity.
Luxury Retreats and Expanding Accommodation
This year, Jamaica’s reputation as a premier travel destination has been elevated with the addition of new luxury hotels, including the Princess Senses The Mangrove, Princess Grand Hotels, and Hotel Riu Palace Aquarelle. The exclusive Trident Hotel in Portland Parish also made its debut, featuring 11 secluded villas nestled around a private cove, perfect for those seeking a luxurious, intimate retreat.
These new developments have added 2,000 more rooms, supporting Jamaica’s growing demand for accommodations. Further contributing to the high-end landscape, Diplo’s luxury retreat, Pompey, opened in Portland, Jamaica, providing a tropical haven designed for relaxation and creativity. Pompey’s blend of private and shared spaces, surrounded by lush landscapes, includes an architectural marvel with a fully outfitted production studio and spaces for water sports, mountain biking, and nightlife.
The luxury offerings in Jamaica continue to expand with new developments at established properties. Montego Bay’s Round Hill introduced Villa 14, a stunning estate with three high-end villas and staff quarters, while Half Moon is set to reveal its multi-bedroom Prestige Ocean and Ocean Villas in November 2024, enhancing its seaside property in Rose Hall.
Looking ahead, new accommodations in Montego Bay’s Unico Hotel 18°77°, as well as the Planet Hollywood Royalton in both St. Thomas Parish and Trelawny, will add an impressive 1,600 rooms, bolstering Jamaica’s hospitality scene.
Immersive Cultural Experiences and Vibrant Events
Cultural attractions also continue to thrive. Falmouth has unveiled The Artisan Village, a lively cultural hub with shops, daily performances, and complimentary access, where visitors can experience Jamaican crafts, cuisine, and digital experiences.
Jamaica’s dynamic events lineup showcases the island’s cultural and culinary richness. Highlights include the highly anticipated Rebel Salute in January and Reggae Month in February, honoring the island’s iconic music, including a tribute to Bob Marley on his 80th birthday on February 6.
Spring will bring the vibrant Carnival in Jamaica, with its spirited parades and festivities culminating in a grand street march on April 27. Summer highlights include the Calabash Literary Festival from May 23-25 and Montego Bay’s Reggae Sumfest in July, a week-long celebration of reggae music. November sees the return of the Jamaica Food and Drink Festival in Kingston, a culinary celebration filled with fine dining experiences, live entertainment, and the best of Jamaican flavors.
To close the year, the Negril Reggae Marathon in December invites participants to a unique marathon experience set against an energizing reggae beat on Negril’s scenic route.
Jamaica’s Future: A Leading Global Destination
With new attractions, world-class accommodations, and a vibrant cultural calendar, Jamaica is set to reach new tourism milestones, solidifying its place as a leading global destination.
