International Tourism Revenue Registers An Increase
 

According to Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) chairman John Lynch, statistics from the World Tourism Organisation (WTO) have shown that international tourist arrivals went up by seven percent during the first half of this year, 2010.

Lynch was speaking last week at the 19th Caribbean Media Exchange for sustainable tourism, staged in Kingston. He said that despite the growth, there was a need to identify diverse opportunities for change to ensure the survival of the respective territories, as well as the region.

"These include new trends in travel, an understanding of its importance to our livelihood, plus a renewed commitment by all stakeholders," he said.

Responding to questions regarding the future of Caribbean tourism in relation to individual messages from each tourism authority, Lynch replied that much more could be done with regards to the region promoting together.

Lynch also felt that tourism could get a boost if Caribbean nationals were able to travel freely in the region without the need for visas and passports. At present, Caricom nationals have to present passports to enter territory of other member states.

Jamaica continues to do well in the tourism front and received its one millionth visitor in August. The number of visitors is on the increase and the island is well prepared to meet its target of two million visitors a year.

What makes Jamaica a special destination in the Caribbean, apart from the sites and attractions and endless opportunities for outdoor and water activities, is the fact that the island offers a wide range of Jamaica accommodation and vacation rentals comprising private villas, cottages and apartments to give the visitors a unique holiday experience.