BAHAMAS: Meet Sherrexcia ‘Rexy’ Rolle A Black Woman Growing Western Air

Black women are making telling contributions to the aviation sector, an industry which is largely male-dominated.

The number of women working as pilots keeps rising and the interesting thing is these black women are now calling the shots in the industry.

Apart from owning some of these airlines, these women are also managers and operators.

Sherrexcia ‘Rexy’ Rolle is one of the youngest women to take up this role.

Coming from a small town called Mastic Point, Andros in the Bahamas, the 29-year-old is the Vice President of Operations and General Counsel for Western Air, a Bahamas-based black-owned aviation business.

Even though the company was founded by her parents – Rex and Shandrice Rolle, Rexy has been holding the fort for the business which started in 2001.

The company has since expanded thanks to Rexy. With a net worth of over $90 million, West Air is one of the largest privately-owned airline company in the Bahamas.

In an interview Rexy says her parents started the airline after realizing that some people in certain islands were finding it difficult to travel around as they would want to.

Even though we have a very efficient government airline in the Bahamas, there were certain islands that were not being targeted for our consumers to have a convenient way to travel.

This is where our airline comes in and once we recognized those gaps in the market, we were able to convince our investors why our airline is needed, she said.

Rexy’s parents did not have it easy setting up the airline though. Her father who was a pilot at the time and her mother had to save money and do research with various aircraft brokers.

My parents were eventually fortunate enough through faith, their persistence and dedication in their business plan to receive offers from two aviation investors from the U.S.

From that moment moving forward, Western Air Limited was a dream that is now a reality, she explained.

Touching on some of the challenges the company faced when it started operating, Rexy said their major issue was time management and delays.

What the company did was to find out why these issues were happening and come up with an amicable solution.

Once my team and I began fine-tuning arrival and departure times, our performance began to improve.

Our ticket sales increased also, she said.

Currently, there are various black women holding senior-level positions in so many companies but the worrying issue of sexual harassment and discrimination still persist.

Nevertheless, Rexy has been making strides in her field.

The minute I sense a meeting has turned beyond the level of business, I shut it down immediately.

I learned that if you want people to take you seriously, especially in this industry where I have to constantly negotiate claims and deal with serious regulations, you must be confident in what you know and only do business with people who are focused on the mission in sealing the deal, she explains.

Western Airlines has been increasing its routes across the Caribbean, and now has direct flights to Haiti, Cuba, and Jamaica.

For now, the company will be increasing its online and social media presence to increase its awareness and promote its services internationally, Rexy says.

Western Air Limited is the largest privately owned airline in the Bahamas.

Western Air has its headquarters on the grounds of San Andros Airport in Andros Island, Bahamas.

The airline was established in 2001 by husband-and-wife team, Rex J. Rolle and Shandrice Woodside- Rolle.

Currently, Mr. and Mrs. Rolle serve as president & CEO and COO respectively.

Their daughter, Sherrexcia 'Rexy' Rolle serves as Vice President of Operations and General Counsel. Western Air now operates from their new second hub at Grand Bahama International Airport.

Which will serve as its main northern hub. opening new direct routes to direct flights to Haiti, Jamaica, Turks & Caicos, and eventually Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, Florida.

The new $4 million state-of-the-art Western Air terminal will be housing Western Air’s terminal, corporate office and maintenance facility. Western said that their fleet will increase more rapidly due to the rising demand in airlift.

Western Air offers daily flights between Nassau and San Andros, Congo Town, Bimini, Abaco and Freeport on Grand Bahama.

It also operates corporate and touristic charters throughout The Bahamas, the Caribbean, including Haiti and Cuba, as well as South America.

Western Air has also taken over Air Jamaica routes to Nassau The carrier said it has been granted a charter licence by the Jamaican Government and the Jamaican Civil Aviation Authority to operate daily flights from Kingston and Montego Bay to Nassau.

In addition, it said that it was granted a schedule and charter licence by the Bahamian Government and its civil aviation agency to operate flights from the Bahamas to Jamaica.

It will fly between Kingston and Nassau from Sundays to Fridays and between Montego Bay and Nassau twice weekly, on Fridays and Sundays.

Flying direct, from Jamaica to Bahamas eliminates the need to travel through the United States and requiring a United States visa.the airline noted.

This was expected to be welcomed by travelers who would otherwise have no direct flights to and from Jamaica when Air Jamaica discontinued service to that country.

October 8, 2013 marked the inaugural Western Air flight from the Bahamas to Cuba, building what officials hope would be a bridge between the two countries to better facilitate trade and commerce.

The aircraft can seat 33 passengers and is expected to carry out one complete route, once a day, three times a week courtesy of a partnership between Western Air and Blue Bahamas Crossing (BCB).

Captain Wolf Seyfret, Western Air’s Director of Operations, said a demand for such a route does exist based on statistics from other airlines and past services that Western Air has done.

Our average load has been 22 passengers. We’ve had full flights, we’ve had flights with 19 passengers but the average load has been 22 passengers. So yes, from that I can say there definitely is a demand there he said.

He explained that Western Air and BCB have very diligently looked at the market and decided the two carriers that presently provide the service are not able to satisfy demand, leaving room in the market for Western Air to step in.

We can say from observing the current levels with Cubana and Bahamasair there’s a lot of passengers being turned away because of the load factors on both airlines so definitely there is a demand for that service he said.

Mr Seyfret added that the privately owned Western Air can definitely be more flexible than the two government-owned airlines.

Zena Burland, BCB chairwoman, explained that the creation of this new service is mainly geared towards encouraging business opportunities and trade relations between the Bahamas and Cuba.

She noted that transportation remains one of the major barriers that prevents the Bahamas’ movement for commerce, trade, and wider networking in the region.

Blue Crossing Bahamas saw this barrier to regional trade and initiated a strategic solution she said. To this end, it focused on its nearest trading and regional neighbor, the Republic of Cuba.

The Bahamas shares regional trade agreements with the Republic of Cuba. The goals then became to stimulate and encourage the flow of trade and commerce at all sectors of industry thereby creating opportunities for the citizen within the regional areas.

The success of these activities of course needs to be secured and supported by offering a scheduled air service to the republic of Cuba from the Bahamas

Therefore providing a bridge for Bahamians, Cubans, and those from the US with full complete approval to visit Cuba for vacation, education, health care and family visits.

Likewise for them to also visit the Bahamas and other regional areas. BCB is already engaged with businesses that are interested in the new service, Ms Burland said, adding that BCB and Western Air recognize the need for reliable air transportation service between the Bahamas and other countries in the region.

They are providing these air link services to provide the venue for large scale development and hotel development to reach its strategic goals by positioning itself to support these developments as we seek to create our strategic partnering program to enhance and promote regional developments.

The Western Air service leaves Nassau for Havana at 5:30 pm on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. It leaves Havana on its return trip to Nassau at 8:15 pm the same day.

Western Air unveiled its new 6 million dollar passenger terminal and maintenance facility on Freeport, Grand Bahama.

Due to high demand in airlift the airline will be introducing new destinations and reopening old ones.



Tourism Observer

JAMAICA: Negril, The Capital Of Casual Sun Bathers And Reggae Parties

Negril is in Jamaica.

Negril is a small but widely dispersed beach resort town located across parts of two Jamaican parishes, Westmoreland and Hanover.

Negril is about an hour and fifteen minute drive on the coastal highway from Sir Donald Sangster International Airport, in Montego Bay.

Westmoreland is the westernmost parish in Jamaica, located on the south side of the island.

Downtown Negril, the West End cliff resorts to the south of downtown, and the southern portion of the so-called seven mile (11 km) beach are in Westmoreland.

The northernmost resorts on the beach are in Hanover Parish. The nearest large town is Savanna-la-Mar, the capital of Westmoreland Parish.

Negril, Jamaica is home to miles of pristine sand beaches, crystal clear waters and dramatic rugged cliffs, a stunning combination of landscapes that cannot be found anywhere else on the island.

The locals have dubbed this city the Capital of Casual for its informal island vibe.

If you are to stay in an all-inclusive resort, you will probably have access to a courtesy van from the airport.

Otherwise, it is easy making your own way from Montego Bay the lobby of the airport hosts two companies operating minibuses to Negril.

The minibus departures are frequent and correspond to flight arrivals. But if you absolutely can't wait to start your tan, taxis await just outside the airport to wisk you to Negril.

The weather is remarkably consistent year-round, highs in the mid-80s, lows in the low-70s F. During the summer, the beach is less-crowded and hotel rates are twenty to forty percent lower than in the winter.

The October hurricane season in the Caribbean typically has a minimal effect on Jamaica.

Negril has a huge assortment of accommodations, ranging from all-inclusive resorts costing several-hundred dollars a day, to guarded campgrounds where you can pitch a tent under the stars.

The pros and cons of the multitude of lodging options are a major topic of conversation among Negril tourists, many of whom continue the discussion virtually at the Internet Negril Message Board.

It is good to have the names of a few hotels in mind, but you don't need to make a decision before arriving in Jamaica.

Even during the busy winter season there are plenty of empty rooms to choose from. The tourist office in the arrivals lobby of the Montego Bay airport before you go through customs can suggest accommodations and can make a reservation for you.

For a typical Jamaican breakfast try fried ackee and saltfish. Ackee is a fruit transplanted from West Africa. Saltfish is, well, a salty fish. The combination tastes better than it sounds.

If you are staying at one of the expansive all inclusives at the northern end of Negril, you will find it very easy to stay within the pampered confines of your resort.

Jamaican culture is friendly and interesting, you will be rewarded if you venture out to meet local residents.

If you are staying at one of Negril's other beachfront hotels, be aware that you will be facing a constant stream of sun bathers during the day and reggae parties at night.

For more secluted quarters consider staying at West End, the inappropriately named area immediately south of Negril beach. The West End is famous for its excellent snorkeling and for its hotels which hug the cliff sides.

The Negril beach is only a 5 minute taxi ride from here.

Consider making a quick trip to Cuba. Several companies in Negril offer two day tours that include air transportation and one night hotel.

Beingee's Negril Jamaica Today lists current events happening in Negril, gives details on some of the accommodations options, and hosts a lively forum.

The Jamaica Tourist Board site is most useful for its accommodations search engine. You can also request brochures online.

The name Negril is a shortened version of Negrillo or Little black ones, as it was originally named by the Spanish in 1494. The name is thought by some to be a reference to the black cliffs south of the village.

Another theory holds that because there was a vast population of black eels along Negril's coast, the Spaniards called the area Anguila Negra which was shortened to Negrillo and then to Negril.

Although Negril has a long history, it did not become well known until the second half of the twentieth century.

Negril's development as a resort location began during the late 1950s, though access to the area proved difficult as ferries were required to drop off passengers in Negril Bay, forcing them to wade to shore.

Most vacationers would rent rooms inside the homes of Jamaican families, or would pitch tents in their yards.

Daniel Connell was the first person to create more traditional vacation lodging for these flower children when he set up the first guest house in Negril,Palm Grove.

The area's welcoming and hospitable reputation grew over time and the first of many resorts was constructed in the mid to late 1960s. The first hotel in Negril was the Yacht Club by Mary's Bay on the West End.

When the road between Montego Bay and Negril was improved in the early 1970s, it helped to increase Negril's status as a new resort location.

It was a two-lane paved road that ran approximately 100 yards (91 m) inland from two white coral sand beaches, at the southern end of which was a small village.

The long paved road from the village ran north to Green Island, home to many of the Jamaican workers in Negril, and was straight enough to double as a runway for small airplanes.

Tis was why there were lengths of railroad track standing on end along the side of the road to discourage drug smugglers from landing on the road to pick up cheap cargos of marijuana.

After Negril's infrastructure was expanded—anticipating the growth of resorts and an expanding population, a small airport, the Negril Aerodrome, was built in 1976 near Rutland Point, alongside several small hotels mostly catering to the North American winter tourists.

Europeans also came to Negril, and several hotels were built to cater directly to those guests.

The geography of Jamaica is diverse. The western coastline contains the island's finest beaches, stretching for more than 6 km (3.7 mi) along a sandbar at Negril.

It is sometimes known among tourists as the 7-Mile Beach although it is only slightly more than 4 mi (6.4 km) in length, from the Negril River on the south to Rutland Point on the north.

On the inland side of Negril's main road, to the east of the shore, lies a swamp called the Great Morass, through which runs the Negril River. Within the Great Morass is the Royal Palm Reserve, with protected wetlands and forest.

In 1990, the Negril Coral Reef Preservation Society was formed as a non-profit, non-governmental organization to address ongoing degradation of the coral reef ecosystem.

The Negril Marine Park was officially declared on March 4, 1998 covering a total area of approximately 160 km2 (62 sq mi) and extending from the Davis Cove River in the Parish of Hanover to St. John’s Point in Westmoreland.

Scuba diving and snorkeling are especially good in the protected reef areas.

The West End Road is also known as Lighthouse Road as there is a Belgian engineered lighthouse protecting seafarers from the dramatic cliffs.

There is beautiful scenery on this western tip of Negril, near Negril Lighthouse. You can mingle with locals at beer shacks like Sexy Rexy's and others out West.

For years, Negril's beach has been rated as one of the top ten beaches in the world by many travel magazines.

The beach's length is the stuff of legends, the two bays Bloody Bay to the north, and Long Bay to the south comprise the Seven Mile Beach.

The beach is actually little less than 7 miles in length, with Bloody Bay being around 2 miles, and Long Bay being just under 5 miles.

Bloody Bay is home to the large, all-inclusive resorts, and Long Bay has all-inclusives and smaller, family-run hotels. This combination gives the Negril area a large variety of rooms, services and prices.

South of downtown Negril is West End Road, known as the West End, which is lined with resorts that offer more privacy.

These areas offer easy access to waters good for snorkelling and diving, with jumping points reaching more than 40 feet (12 m) high.

Many vendors and shops are located around the beach resorts; however, they are predominantly located on the south end of the beach, where there are fewer all inclusive resorts.

That Negril is still fairly underdeveloped remains a significant factor in its charm, but this may not last, as a new highway from Montego Bay and an improved infrastructure may bring more tourists.

As a result, more hotels and tour operators continue to develop new attractions and excursions in Negril.

Since the 1980s, it has also become a popular location for U.S. college students to visit during spring break or just a regular vacation in Jamaica.

The last few years have seen major development along the beach.

The resorts include Couples Swept Away, Couples Negril, Sandals, Beaches, Samsara Hotel, Legends Resort, the Grand Lido, Riu Palace Tropical Bay, Riu Club Hotel and Hedonism II.

The Hedonism II resort is one enduring hotel/resort that has been saved from bankruptcy and remains an adult destination.

A franchise of Jimmy Buffett's chain restaurant and bar, Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville, and a duty-free zone have also been added.

In recent years, a large development has been constructed consisting of ocean front villas, 2 or 3 bed townhouse developments and studio apartments.

This development is known as Little Bay Country Club and is home to some of the wealthiest Jamaican families.

Currently under construction is the huge new Royalton Negril Resort.

The early development of Negril as a resort is featured in Ian Fleming's 1965 novel The Man with the Golden Gun.

One of the schemes of the novel's antagonist Francisco Scaramanga was to open a hotel called the Thunderbird on the beach.


Negril is famous for its 7 miles of cool, white sand beaches and another 7 miles of 40' cliffs.

One of the most beautiful towns in Jamaica, it has a more laid back atmosphere than that of Montego Bay and is more touristy than Ocho Rios.

When you stay at a hotel on the beach you are literally on the beach when you walk out of the beachside of your hotel. You have probably never seen water this clear or warm.

You will be amazed at how far out you can walk in the water before it gets up to your neck. The water is gentler and the sand is whiter smaller grained aka softer the farther down away from town you are.

The end of the beach down by the all-inclusives is the whitest. The region is also known for its foreign janes or female sex tourists who visit.

Fly into the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay. Take a 60-90 minute shuttle van ride to Negril.

Amstardmc.com A highly recommended Airport transport company and Excursions with more than 20 years of service.

Travel Around Jamaica Tours specializes in providing safe and reliable 1st class private airport transfers from Montego Bay Airport and Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston, Jamaica, which includes private transfers to any hotels or villas in Jamaica.

Travel Around Jamaica Tours also provides private transfers to many great Jamaican sightseeing and adventure tours.

Thriller Tours provides airport transfers and shuttles to all locations in Jamaica. If you are looking for a pickup, drop off, or round trip from Montego Bay to Negril or Kingston to Negril they can provide transportation.

PPJTours & Airport Transfers provides Private Airport Transfers including Helicopter transfers from the Montego Bay Airport.

Jamaica Airport Transfers provides private airport transfer for individual and group going to Negril from Montego Bay Airport.

Clive's Transport Service is a great way to get from the airport to Negril, for $20 per person in a nice, air-conditioned van with really positive staff to meet you off the plane, provide you with refreshments & very safe, friendly, accommodating drivers.

Cross Jamaica Tours provides island tours, pick up and transfers from and to Montego Bay and Kingston airports and guaranties a service which will take you from and to airport with minimum fuss and maximum contort.

The professionalism and wide experience of its drivers will make you experience in Jamaica a special one.

Kingsley James of Take Care Tours, is reliable and available for private or group transportation throughout the island, in a clean and comfortable van. Based in the West End, with 20 years experience.

Dudley Warren's Big Ship Tours will take excellent care of you; tours and airport transfer to and from Negril with a/c, cold drinks and great company.

The least expensive way to get around is to hire Route Taxis. There are two types, charter red plate, and red plates route taxis.

Red plate taxis are official and you can bargain with them. Route Taxis, for example, from the Rui Resort on Bloody Bay to downtown Negril will charge about $2 per person. From Rui to Ricks Cafe is about $4 per person.

Be sure to set your price with the driver before you enter their taxi. Current rates seem to be 130 Jamaica dollars along the beachfront road to the roundabout in Negril township.

130 more for any point past this i.e. around the cliffs, you will have to change taxis at the roundabout and catch a different route to the cliffs. Double this if you are catching a route taxi at night.

Non red plate taxis can be anyone owning a car. It is illegal and these drivers are not insured nor licensed to carry passengers.

Some will show their Jamaican tourism ID which is still not official unless their license plate on the car is red. Many drivers will attempt to get you to hire them for tours or just to one location.

Many of them are very expensive, even if you try to negotiate with them. They will double and triple the cost of a route/red plate taxi.

Drivers who are not Route Taxis often charge over $10 per person and will tell you that Route Taxis aren't safe which is not true, it's just a way to get more money from tourists.

In non larger or locally owned hotels, they might have official drivers which still does not mean you will get a good price, these again are non-red plate taxis. Stay away from drivers with white plates.

Rick's Cafe, is known for the cliffside it is built upon, where tourists can take a courageous leap into the Caribbean Sea below.

During Hurricane Ivan, the cafe slid off the cliffside into the sea below, but it has since been rebuilt and is now bigger than ever and has been rated one of the Top Ten Bars in the World, according to some publications.

Rick's Cafe has undergone extensive refurbishing since Hurricane Ivan, and is about the biggest tourist trap in which to view a gorgeous Negril sunset.

Cliff diving is available from a sturdy concrete slab perched high atop the sea cliffs, higher than before.

There, visitors can test their mettle or leave it to the professionals, people have been killed and seriously injured/maimed when cliff jumping including the so-called professionals.

If you do not have experience cliff jumping and want to jump, then jump from the lower jump first to practise and reduce chance of injury. Just remember that if you watch the show, you're expected to tip the professionals.

- Appleton Rum Estate

- Walk the Martha Bray River

- Negril Jamaica Vidia - a visual encyclopedia of Negril

Taking a snorkeling tour in one the glass bottom boats is highly recommended. Watch the famous Negril sunset, it is the sunset to remember .

You can spend American dollars almost anywhere on the island. Most of the roadside stand sellers have a calculator and know the exchange rate.

Although the roadside sellers are quite savy they can be honest to a fault when it comes to bargaining. If you want a better price you can get it. Just try to avoid upsetting the locals by killing their tourist tax.

In touristy areas items will double in price, if you feel that something is expensive, you're probably right.

There are several grocery stores in town with many items such as Jamaican coffee, rum, tea and other local products.

These are typically more reasonable in price. This can also save money in food or alcohol costs while vising Negril.

The tourist crafts market at the edge of town is a great place to pick up souvenirs and nick nacks. The sellers are willing to bargain especially if you want more than one thing. Do not be afraid to bargain.

Just like other touristy Jamaican cities, you can purchase cigars from Jamaica or specifically Cuba. Due to the US trade embargo, it's a popular item sold in gift shops in Negril.

Remembering that Cuban Cigars are illegal to import back to the United States. If you purchase cigars, unless you are an expert, there is a chance you are buying fake cigars with the label added.

These shop owners know that Americans can not have them, so they will offer exorbitant prices. Referencing prices in Europe where it is legal you can pay 3-15$ a cigar, depending on the brand.

You should do your research beforehand, and if possible bring someone who knows cigars. Just because an item is in a Cuban Cigar box, it doesn't mean they are authentic.

Try eating Sugar Cane, Coconut Jelly/Meat, and Jerk Chicken.

Quality's Sea Breeze Restaurant, Top of the cliffs, across and down a little from Canoe. Best seafood hands down. Great little place, Quality's seafood is the best, and prices are very reasonable.

Guinep Corner (West Land Mountain), West land Mountain Road, just by the famous Guinep Trees. early am till late.

Local food at a local Jamaican bar, cooked & served by Jamaican couple Janice & Rasta Martell. From pieces of fresh fried fish and chicken to full breakfasts of Ackee & Saltfish or dinners of goat curry and other Jamaican dishes.

Ambiance is truly Jamaica, with domino games, great music, Jamaica TV and wonderful street life. Very local, Jamaican street life at its best set in a really friendly community with strictly no harrassment & total enjoyment. 400JMD.

Eddie's De Bar and Grill Jerk chicken plus all the traditional Jamaican dishes, goat, fish and lobster. The bar has great vibes, excellent music, nightly bonfire; truly a Jamaican yard. Just past The Rockhouse Hotel on the left.

The Rockhouse Hotel. A beautifully set restaurant and hotel on the cliffs. They will collect you for free from your hotel and drive you there.

Three Dives Restaurant an eatery on the west end that is just past Xtabi Resort. Expect jerk chicken, pork, lobster and snapper - all locally sourced.

LTU Restaurant a locally-styled restaurant perched high on the edge of the cliff, just 200 yards from Ricks on the cliff road. The menu offers high quality and a wide range, including vegetarian, and there is a specials board for fresh 'catch of the day' offerings such as Marlin, Kingfish and Mahi mahi.

Royal Kitchen a vegetarian/Ital restaurant on the west end past the M&L Market. $250 J gets you a great combo that usually consists of soy chunks, rice and peas, veggies, plus often stew or ackee.

Sweet Spice Restaurant, most locals will recommend the place and with good reason, the oxtail is great and the lobster is cheaper than at the beach.

Coconut Water - best straight off the tree, just cut open the coconut with a machete and drink,if you're picky, you can use a straw. You can also buy bottled coconut water basically anywhere on the island, but not as good as getting it fresh from the green coconuts. Good for your heart.

Rum Fruit Punch or Red Stripe Beer are Jamaican concoctions. Guinness and Heineken can also be purchased pretty much anywhere that sells alcohol.

The SamSara Hotel also located in the west part of Negril past the rock house has a very nice buy one get one free happy hour from 4-7 every day!

Red Dragon. In Red Ground. World Class Jerk Pork. Locals also refer to it as Ragabones. Monday afternoons is a big time for tourists.

The Jungle Night Club. A night club set on the main road which runs parallel to the 7 mile strip. Plays RnB/Rap/Reggae music. Note that this club is known for its Thursday nights ladies night when all ladies enter free. Very fun spot to be. Admission costs $700J.

Judy House Cottages, West Land Mountain Road off One Love Drive West End Road. This is really living life in a Jamaican community just minutes away from Negril's beautiful beaches, local cook shops, fantastic restaurants.

Two cosy, fully equiped cottages or Sue's One 4 the Road Backpacker Hostel rooms, nestling in the back of Sue's amazing tropical garden. 15 to 75 USD.

Riu Tropical Bay, Norman Manley Boulevard. Victorian-style resort is in Bloody Bay. 416 rooms offer deluxe accommodation, including a mini-bar and liquor dispenser in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

Array of buffet dishes and a la carte options at the resort or take advantage of exchange programnme privileges at the Riu Negril. Live music and Riu's theme shows.

Riu Negril, Norman Manley Boulevard Bloody Bay Beach. 420 deluxe rooms, a beautiful stretch of white sandy beach just minutes away from shopping area and nightlife. The resort offers renowned mini-bar and liquor dispenser, along with a complete programme of daytime activities and nightly entertainment.

Dine at any of the tempting buffets and the a la carte specialty restaurants or enjoy a drink at one of our cosy bars.

The Cliff Hotel, West End Road. The Cliff Hotel, located along the coast in Negril, Jamaica, combines 33 suites and villas to include two one-bedroom villas, a four-bedroom, and a five-bedroom villa. All of our guest rooms offer unhindered views of the Caribbean Sea sunsets.

Rock House, Rockhouse combines natural beauty, strong architectural design, local materials and craftsmanship, excellent service, and a relaxed Jamaican experience. The hotel has an interesting history; when its first room was built in 1972, it was one of the first hotels on Negril's cliffs.

Early guests included Bob Marley, Bob Dylan and the Rolling Stones. In 1994, the property was purchased by a group of Australians.

Beaches. All inclusive family resort.

Hedonism Resorts. All inclusive resort with adults only fare nude resort.

LTU Villas. Large, spacious rooms at reasonable prices. Free WiFi access and cable TV throughout.

Negril Yoga Center. $30-65 USD (double occupancy). Quiet & peaceful collection of small cozy villas. Has daily yoga lessons for $10 USD. Kitchen provides vegetarian fare.

Negril Tree House Resort, Phone: 876-957-4287, [18]. Not an all inclusive but close enough with room service, a bar/restaurant, pool, hot tub, towels for the beach at the front desk, and a free buffet breakfast.

The two bedroom suites at the top of the treehouse-style rooms have a master bedroom with a bide and double sinks in the master bath, a full size fridge, a washer, cooking utensils, dining room table, DVD player with cable in the living room, cable, tv in both bedrooms, remote controlled serious air conditioners and ceiling fans in all rooms.

The cleaning service washes all the dishes and will do your laundry if you are feeling too lazy to use the washing machine. There are also a hammock, and a little hammock-like swing on the private open air covered deck at the entrance to the room. They also have one bedroom suites at ground level.

Great Huts. Ecotourism beach bed and breakfast uniquely composed of treehouses and African Huts. Hostel rooms also available.

Blue Cave Castle, Lighthouse Road. A castle built 50ft above an old pirates cave, on the cliffs. The views are incredible and all of the rooms face the ocean. The rooms are large with a veranda.

The superior rooms have cable TV, CD players, remote control air conditioning, fans, and refrigerators. From $50US, to the huge $120 castle-top penthouse, with its 360 views of Negril.


Moon Dance Cliffs Resort and Spa (Moon Dance Cliffs), West End Road. checkin: 2pm; checkout: 12pm. Moon Dance Cliffs is a 22 room boutique hotel with four royal Villas that overlook the Caribbean Sea. The on-site restaurant and bars feature Jamaican and American cuisines.

The spectacular 5,000+ sq ft pool includes waterfalls, islands and bridges. The Resort also features an on-site modern Spa. The Royal Villas range from one to five bedrooms.

Xtabi Hotel, Built on the historic Xtabi cliffs. The labyrinth of caves beneath the hotel have served as hiding places for pirate's treasure and film locations for major motion pictures.

The Xtabi hotel consists of 24 rooms located on the cliffs and in its beautiful gardens. The hotel also has an award-winning restaurant and large open-air bar.

Idle Awhile Beach, Norman Manley Blvd. checkin: 3 p.m.; checkout: 12 p.m.. A beach chic design blends rustic elements and local art with contemporary comforts, seamlessly combining indoor and outdoor living.

Sixteen Caribbean-style suites feature low slung wood beds, large louvered windows, and a private veranda — complete with lounge chairs or hammocks.

Use common sense, especially at night. Negril is generally considered safer than most large American cities.

Jamaicans are very friendly people. In touristy areas though, be aware there are many people who will welcome you, ask you where you're from and offer advice are looking for money.

Especially people who go out of their way to say hello. Many will be willing to walk you to a recommended restaurant or offer to show you around.

These people will always ask for money in return. Even after giving a few dollars, they will even ask for more. Don't be afraid to say no, and to avoid these people from the start.

When walking down the street, people looking for money will look for ways to grab your attention, such as a fist pound or handshake.

Do not be afraid to keep walking, and politely say no thank you. This can get very tedious at times but think similarly to how you will deal with panhandlers in any major city.

When choosing not to stop, you might get some accusations of being racist, "why you in a hurry", "why you being rude" and such. Remember when walking away they are still trying to get your attention, don't take it personally.

There is an official change office at the roundabout in Negril. Many locals around it offer a better rate than the office, but they will scam you.

After you agree with them for a better rate, they will bring you to the ATM booth next to the change office. At first, they will hand over you the money.

After you counted, you'd realize it is less than you expected. When you tell this to them, they will ask you to give the money back, they recount in front of you and add the missing amount, but at the same time, they may reme some banknotes,generally 1 or 2 banknotes. Don't change money at them, you'll end up scammed.


It is illegal to buy and/or use drugs in Jamaica. Commonly, you may be offered marijuana 'smoke... smoke?', "the bob Marley" or simply "weed" by the locals. A pleasant no thank you or yes please will usually suffice.

Do not be surprised if you are offered drugs several times throughout your stay. In addition, you might be offered a free amount. Typically if you smile and say no thank you you will have no problems.

A little known fact is that you can walk from the far end of the beach to town in under an hour on the beach if you walk along the beach line to where the trees block the way and then take to the grass along the water.

Just stay on the shore and you will stumble into the tourist market at the edge of town. There are coconuts and sugar cane for sale in the parking lot. It is a great way to avoid the taxi tax and stay off the road,

To see more of the area in and around Negril, with a local flare, requires a tour guide. Tour Guides can be hired relatively cheaply, and will add a lot of life to your exploration of Negril, and Jamaica at large.

To find one, it is easiest to ask for a referral from a tourist spot, like Rick's Cafe. One local favorite is Sexy Rexy, a Rastafarian tourguide, but others can be found as well.

Knutsford Express Buses are becoming more and more popular for means of travel throughout Jamaica.

Knutsford Express offers charter buses form all the major cities to any of the major tourist locations such as Ocho-Rios, Kingston, Negril and Montego Bay.

Fairs are payable on site or on their website ahead of time. Costs depends on the time you book, it's recommended to book ahead of time.

Many hotels offer their own shuttles to and from the airport in Montego Bay. In addition, they will offer tours to local attractions.

Find here:

- Beaches Resorts - Negril

- Sandals Negril

- Little Bay Country Club (LBCC)

- Couples Swept Away

- Couples Negril

- Royalton Negril


Tourism Observer

JAMAICA: Crime Ravaging The Western End Of Jamaica Affecting Tourism Numbers

Jamaica ranked 69th out of 136 countries in The Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Index (TTCI) 2017 posted on the World Economic Forum’s website last week, improving by seven places since the last report in 2015.

From a regional context, being pooled within North and Central America area, Jamaica was seventh behind North American neighbours USA (sixth) , Canada (ninth) and Mexico (22nd), with Panama (35th) and Costa Rica (38th) completing the region’s top five.

Caribbean neighbour Barbados (58th) ranked ahead of Jamaica, while Trinidad and Tobago (73rd) and the Dominican Republic (76th) trailed.

Still with Caribbean waters but grouped within the South America region, Colombia was 62nd and embattled Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela 104th.

The TTCI was critical of the North and Central American region for their heavy dependence on "natural resources" – sun, sea and sand, as we know it in Jamaica – whilst encouraging further diversification of the tourism product with more infusion of heritage and culture, a key feature in the South American countries.

Jamaica placed 67th out of the 136 countries in the category of natural resources, while for cultural resources placed 101st.

Central American and Caribbean countries continue to rely too excessively on their natural resources and have not made much progress in developing other tourism segments or complementing their beach offer with other activities, the report stated.

According to the report, The majority of the countries in the region rely on rich natural resources and good hospitality tourist service infrastructure to appeal to tourists, and they tend to be internationally open.

It is clear that most of the governments in the region understand the strategic role tourism plays for development and job creation and consequently support the sector proactively.

In this regard, Jamaica ranked 42nd, 49th and 55th for the business environment, tourist service infrastructure, and human resources and labour market pillars, respectively.

For the period being reported, 91,682 people or eight per cent of the population were recorded as employed to the sector which contributes US$1.26 billion to gross domestic product.

In terms of international openness, Jamaica placed 37th out 136, while for the prioritisation of tourism and travel pillar, the island received its highest rank of sixth.

Despite the improvement in rank, the country’s essential services weighed negatively on its position in the index.

With crime ravaging the western end of Jamaica, which is the preferred haunt of most tourists, the country ranked 119th in the category of safety and security.

For health and hygiene Jamaica placed 94 out of the 136 countries on the TTCI 2017, with the country’s health sector being threatened by mosquito-borne epidemics chikungunya and Zika virus.

The Cornwall Regional Hospital in the resort city of Montego Bay has had its fair share of challenges with noxious fumes circulating in the institution.

Jamaica also received praise for the development of its ground infrastructure,road networks and port facility), ranking 33rd, but in the case of air transport infrastructure was poorly placed at 83rd.

For the period reported, over two million international tourist arrivals were recorded; international tourism inbound receipts were estimated to be US$2.4 billion. The average receipt per arrival was US$1,130.

The Mona School of Business and Management at The University of the West Indies provided information for Jamaica toward the index.

Best Caribbean Highlife Destinations To Visit

Cancun, Mexico

Cancun has a well-deserved reputation as a spring break destination, and that’s because it has some of the Caribbean’s most bustling nightlife spots.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

The closest place the Caribbean has to New York City. From Old San Juan to Condado, there are terrific bars and clubs to enjoy.

Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

It’s not just the Dominican Republic’s capital — it’s the country’s nightlife capital, too. Bars, clubs, casinos, dancing and what might be the Caribbean’s most diverse live music scene.

Port of Spain, Trinidad

Port of Spain is the most developed city in the English-speaking Caribbean, and it shows. And there aren’t just a host of night spots to check out (especially in St James, the so-called “City That Never Sleeps”). There’s also Port of Spain’s famous, all-night street food.

Willemstad, Curacao

We’re big fans of many of the bars and clubs in historic Willemstad and the surrounding areas. And Willemstad is perhaps the most walkable city in the entire Caribbean.

Montego Bay, Jamaica

Much of the action here after dark is on Gloucester Avenue on what’s known as the “hip strip.” From live theatre to sports bars to jazz, you’ll find it all here.

Philipsburg, St Maarten

St Maarten has a number of seriously good bars, and, of course, a number of casinos, where you can always have a great time, no matter the hour.

Cabarete, Dominican Republic

The Caribbean’s bohemian destination never shuts off — and the best thing is, you can walk to everything, most of which is set right on the beach.

Oranjestad, Aruba

You’ll find much of the island’s nightlife in its many casinos, but bar hopping is very much alive and well here, from intimate dives to large clubs.

St Lawrence Gap, Barbados

Yes, Barbados. It’s not the first thing you think of about the island, but the St Lawrence Gap area in Christ Church has some of the best nightlife in the Caribbean — and bars that are open as much as 24 hours.

USA: Southwest Announces 22 New Routes

Southwest Airlines, which plans to grow capacity 3.5% in 2017, has released details on 22 new and seasonal routes, including four international routes originating from its forthcoming international concourse at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport in Florida.

As of Nov. 30, 2016, the Dallas, Texas-based carrier had taken delivery of 131 of 155 Boeing 737-800s on order; 32 were delivered through Nov. 30, approximately three per month. At this rate, the remaining 737-800s should be delivered by July, in time for the planned entry-into-service of Boeing’s 737 MAX aircraft, for which Southwest is the launch customer. Southwest has 200 737 MAXs on order.

Southwest’s new five-gate international Concourse A at Fort Lauderdale’s Terminal 1 is scheduled to open June 4. On that date, Southwest will launch 1X-daily service to Grand Cayman. On June 6, the airline will begin new routes to Montego Bay (Jamaica), Belize and Cancun (Mexico). The new routes are pending government approvals and will bring to eight the total number of international routes Southwest will operate from Fort Lauderdale (along with Nassau, Bahamas, and Cuban cities Havana, Varadero and Santa Clara).

Additionally out of Fort Lauderdale, Southwest plans to launch new 1X-daily service to Washington Dulles, 1X-daily service to Philadelphia, and 1X-daily service to Orlando beginning June 4.

The airline will also launch a new 2X-daily Tampa-New York LaGuardia service, as well as a weekend Pensacola-Denver route.

The airline also announced new Ohio routes beginning June 4, concentrating on operations out of Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport and Cleveland International Airport. Southwest plans to end operations out of airports in both Akron-Canton and Dayton on June 3. The new Ohio routes include daily Cincinnati-Baltimore, Cincinnati-Chicago Midway, and Cleveland-Atlanta service. The airline will increase Cleveland-St Louis service to 2X-daily.

Also out of the US midwest, Southwest will introduce new Indianapolis-Newark and Nashville-Minneapolis service, starting June 4.

On the US west coast, Southwest is boosting service from San Diego with two new routes (San Diego-Boise, Idaho and San Diego-Salt Lake City, Utah) and three seasonal routes (San Diego-Newark; San Diego-Spokane, Washington; and San Diego-Indianapolis, Indiana). All routes will begin June 4.

Additional new west coast routes to launch on June 4 include Portland, Oregon-San Francisco; San Jose, California-Reno, Nevada; and a seasonal route between Oakland, California-Newark.

JAMAICA: Destination Assurance Management Committees To Be Set Up In Resort Areas

The Ministry of Tourism will be setting up destination assurance management committees in resort areas, which will be charged with ensuring a quality vacation experience for visitors to the island.

Portfolio Minister Edmund Bartlett said the committees will be established within the first quarter of next year in the Kingston Metropolitan Area (KMA), Montego Bay, Negril, Ocho Rios, Portland, and the south coast. They will be overseen by management boards.

Minister Bartlett was speaking at the Inaugural Tourism Policy Lecture Series held on Wednesday, at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Regional Headquarters in Kingston.

He said the committees will replace the Tourism Development Company (TPDCo)-operated Resort Boards, which were established in an advisory capacity and empowered to function within certain parameters.

He noted that the assurance committees will ensure high-quality standards in the delivery of the country’s tourism product.

“What we want is a more efficient and technical arrangement to ensure the destination integrity to guarantee to the visitor a safe, secure and seamless vacation,” he said.

Minister Bartlett said that the boards will be comprised of personnel who have competence in the delivery of key services at the local level.

“For example, the public-health officer in charge of sanitation, the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA) officer in charge of maintenance of the drains and keeping the areas pristine, the local police for safety and security,” he informed.

He said the destination assurance management committees will act as a one-stop shop that will ensure compliance with regulations by all players in the local tourism industry.

“There will be no excuse for you not to be a licensed tourism entity, not to maintain high standards and quality, because if you don’t, we are going to take away your licence and you won’t be able to function in that area,” he warned.

Minister Bartlett informed that the Ministry is in the process of building out the terms of reference and the overall policy that will guide the operation of the committees.

He pointed out that all tourism stakeholders will be involved in the initiative, including destination managers, who will form part of the TPDCo’s network of regional managers to provide support in maintaining the destination assurance.

The Tourism Policy Lecture Series was hosted by the Ministry through its Tourism Linkages Network in collaboration with the UWI Department of Government and the UWI Centre for Tourism and Policy Research.

The annual series aims to inform stakeholders about the opportunities in the sector and highlight the contributions of the industry to national development.

JAMAICA:Liquid Cocaine Allegedly Found In Passegers Luggage

The police have charged four of the five Canadian women who were last Wednesday arrested after liquid cocaine was allegedly found in their luggage at the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay.

Police reports are that about 7:15 pm last Wednesday, the five females checked in to board an outgoing flight destined to Canada when their belongings were searched and 14 bottles of liquid cocaine found.

Four of the women were charged with possession of cocaine, dealing in cocaine and taking steps preparatory to export cocaine and are to appear in the St James Parish Court on Wednesday.

They have been identified as Karen Roberto, Jacques Moukoury, Kelly Barradas and, Mariah Holland. The fifth woman was released after police conducted interviews.

JAMAICA: Jamaica To Become Entertainment Destination

Tourism Minister, Edmund Bartlett, says his ministry is looking to establish Jamaica as a major destination for entertainment.

Speaking during Reggae Sumfest’s ‘Reggae Night’ at the Catherine Hall Entertainment Centre in Montego Bay on Saturday, Bartlett said the aim is to promote the island as the premier location for guaranteed quality entertainment year-round.

He noted that visitors will be able to purchase a vacation to Jamaica two years in advance knowing that entertainment is guaranteed.

Bartlett pointed out that destinations such as Cuba offer scheduled entertainment events.

“What we want to do is to establish the reggae music experience that will bring visitors from all over the world. Instead of looking at single events, we will be looking now on a product that we can package and… market and it offers some kind of certitude as to the quality and high standards and also it gives a timeline and… a venue,” he explained.

Bartlett noted that the 24-year-old Reggae Sumfest has been instrumental in bringing visitors to Jamaica.

He said that he will be meeting with industry stakeholders shortly in preparation for the festival’s silver anniversary in 2017.

“We are going to be having a meeting with all the main providers of international offerings in music and to see how we can pull it all together to produce that product so that the 25th will be exciting and different and will hopefully bring more of the international Jamaican artistes,” said the tourism minister.

CAYMAN ISLANDS: Cayman Airways "Those who fly us love us"

Cayman Airways is the flag carrier airline of the British Overseas Territory of the Cayman Islands. With its head office in Grand Cayman, it operates mainly as an international and domestic scheduled passenger carrier, with cargo services available on all routes. Its operations are based at Owen Roberts International Airport (GCM) in George Town, Grand Cayman. The airline also offers a limited charter service. Cayman Airways' slogan is "Those who fly us love us".

The airline was established and started operations on August 7, 1968. It was formed following the Cayman Islands Government's purchase of 51% of Cayman Brac Airways from LACSA, the Costa Rican flag carrier, and became wholly government owned in December 1977.

LACSA had been serving Grand Cayman since the mid 1950s as an intermediate stop on its route between San Jose, Costa Rica and Miami with some flights also making a stop in Havana, Cuba as well between Grand Cayman and Miami.

In 1965, Cayman Brac Airways (which was also known as CBA Airways Ltd.) was operating regional services from Owen Roberts International Airport in George Town, Grand Cayman to Gerrard Smith International Airport on Cayman Brac as well as to Little Cayman via a flag stop and Montego Bay, Jamaica.

According to this airline's May 1, 1965 system timetable, weekly service with a twin engine Beechcraft 18 aircraft was being operated on a routing of Grand Cayman – Little Cayman (flag stop only) – Cayman Brac – Montego Bay with an additional weekly service being flown between Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac with an intermediate stop on occasion at Little Cayman as a flag stop.

This same timetable also states that connections at Grand Cayman were available to LACSA flights operated with Douglas DC-6B prop aircraft for service to Miami and also to Pan Am flights at Montego Bay for connecting service to Miami and New York. By 1970, LACSA had introduced British Aircraft Corporation BAC One-Eleven twin jets on its San Jose, Costa Rica – Grand Cayman – Miami route.

Early on, Cayman Airways first aircraft was a single Douglas DC-3. A few months after it was formed, the airline flew its first international route to Kingston, Jamaica (KIN) using a BAC One-Eleven wet leased from LACSA.

International service to Miami (MIA) was initiated using a single leased Douglas DC-6 propliner. The July 1, 1972 Cayman Airways system timetable lists nonstop flights between Grand Cayman and Miami being operated eight times a week and nonstop flights between Grand Cayman and Kingston, Jamaica being operated five times a week with both destinations being served with BAC One-Eleven jet aircraft.

This same timetable also lists Douglas DC-3 nonstop service to both Cayman Brac and Little Cayman from Grand Cayman and also between Cayman Brac and Little Cayman with service being operated nine times a week in each direction on the three routes between the these island destinations.

By the winter of 1973, Cayman Airways was operating stretched BAC One-Eleven series 500 aircraft on both of its jet routes and was operating seventeen flights a week between Grand Cayman and Miami as well as five flights a week between Grand Cayman and Kingston.

The airline was also offering direct connecting jet service between Miami and Kingston via Grand Cayman at this time. In 1976, the airline had increased competition on the Grand Cayman-Miami route as Southern Airways was operating daily nonstop Douglas DC-9-10 jet service with LACSA continuing to serve the route as well with BAC One-Eleven series 500 flights operated four times a week.

By the late 1970s, Cayman Airways had commenced its second nonstop route to the United States with service five times a week between Grand Cayman and Houston, Intercontinental Airport (IAH) being flown with the BAC One-Eleven series 500.

In 1979, an additional BAC One-Eleven jet as well as a Hawker Siddeley 748 turboprop and a Britten-Norman Trislander STOL (short take off and landing) prop aircraft were purchased.

The airline then replaced their two BAC One-Eleven jets with Boeing 727-200 aircraft in 1982, strengthening the airline's regional and international capability, and also allowed for the introduction of first class service. Cayman Airways also operated a Douglas DC-8-52 jetliner and a leased Boeing 727-100 jet during the 1980s.

These jets were eventually replaced with Boeing 737-200 and then with Boeing 737-300 aircraft. Boeing 737-400 jetliners were operated as well. At one time or another during the 1980s, Cayman Airways offered scheduled or charter service to Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Detroit, Houston, Minneapolis, Newark, New York City, Philadelphia and St. Louis as well as Kingston and Montego Bay in Jamaica.

The airline also flew nonstop at one point between Miami and Grand Turk Island and Providenciales in the Turks & Caicos Islands with Boeing 727-200 and Boeing 737-200 jetliners. These were the only routes flown by the carrier that did not directly serve the Cayman Islands.

Cayman Airlines has also operated jet service into Cayman Brac over the years with Boeing 727–200, Boeing 737-200 and Boeing 737-400 aircraft, including nonstop flights between Cayman Brac and Miami, and currently continues to do so with Boeing 737-300 jets.

Besides nonstop flights to several destinations in the U.S., the airline currently operates nonstop jet service between Grand Cayman and Havana, Cuba, Kingston, Jamaica, La Ceiba, Honduras and Montego Bay, Jamaica. Non-jet flights between Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman are currently operated with turboprop aircraft by Cayman Airways Express.

The airline struggled throughout the early 1990s; however, financial assistance from the Cayman Islands Government, financial re-structuring, newer, more modern aircraft and the addition of new destinations such as Chicago, Dallas/Ft. Worth (both served on a seasonal basis) and Havana, Cuba appear to have helped the airline.

The company's mascot is an embellishment of the original Sir Turtle designed by Suzy Soto. As first designed, Sir Turtle did not have the red flying scarf. That original design was used on baggage stickers by Cayman Islands Customs and also became the logo of the Department of Tourism which was then headed by Eric Bergstrom.

Mrs. Soto was married to Eric Bergstrom, with whom she built the Tortuga Club on the East End of Grand Cayman. The red flying scarf was later added to Sir Turtle in 1978 by Capt. Wilbur Thompson, the Chief Pilot of Cayman Airways at the time, and that modified Sir Turtle became the airline's new logo.

Cayman Airways largely serves major regional cities in the United States, Jamaica, Cuba and Honduras. All outbound jet flights originate at Owen Roberts International Airport on Grand Cayman Island and often remain on the ground at the destination city for a short time prior to returning inbound to Grand Cayman.

Because Owen Roberts International Airport does not have jet bridges, all passengers are routed to and from the terminal building onto the ramp for access to the aircraft using new state of the art boarding ramps, which allow passengers to walk on and off the aircraft without stairs.

These ramps also allow passengers with limited mobility, including those in wheel chairs to have much easier access to the aircraft. Upon arrival to most of the international destinations,the aircraft is able to utilize a jet bridge service for deplaning and boarding. All Cayman Airways jet flights permit economy class passengers to check up to two pieces of baggage (up to 55 pounds) without charge, and all flights feature complimentary Tortuga rum punch—a signature cocktail of the Cayman Islands.

According to the June 18, 1991 Cayman Airways system timetable, the airline was serving the following destinations with scheduled nonstop flights primarily to and from Grand Cayman (except where noted):

- Atlanta, Georgia – service operated via an intermediate stop in both directions in Tampa
- Cayman Brac, Cayman Islands
- Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands – airline headquarters and hub
- Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos Islands – service to and from Miami
- Houston, Texas – Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
- Kingston, Jamaica –
- Little Cayman, Cayman Islands
- Miami, Florida
- New York City, New York – John F. Kennedy Airport (JFK)
- Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands – service to and from Miami
- Tampa, Florida

According to the Official Airline Guide (OAG), by the fall of 1991 Cayman Airways was primarily operating Boeing 737-400 jetliners with some flights also being operated with Boeing 737-200 jets. Service to Cayman Brac and Little Cayman was being operated with commuter prop aircraft.

The airline also had substantial competition on their core Grand Cayman-Miami nonstop route at this same time: Cayman Airways was operating nineteen flights a week, all with Boeing 737-400s, while American Airlines was operating seven flights a week with Boeing 757-200 jetliners, Pan Am was operating five flights a week with Boeing 727-200 jets and Northwest Airlines was operating ten flights a week with McDonnell Douglas DC-9-30 twin jets.

Thus, there were a total of 41 round trip flights a week being operated with mainline jet aircraft between Grand Cayman and Miami at this time.

JAMAICA: Tourism Minister Says Sector Continues To Be Engine of Growth

Minister of Tourism and Entertainment, Hon. Dr. Wykeham McNeill, says tourism continues to be the engine of growth for the economy, and that locals have a responsibility to ensure the sector remains competitive and visitor friendly.

Addressing the Jamaica Product Exchange (JAPEX) Tourism Trade Show at the Montego Bay Convention Centre on September 20, Dr. McNeill said the sector has not only been demonstrating a high level of profitability and dependability, but can now be safely called “the proverbial goose that keeps laying the golden egg.”

“The sector has the capacity to improve the quality of life of our people, which is the prime responsibility of our Government. We must ensure that the benefits of the sector have a positive impact, not only on those who live in the resort areas, but throughout every nook and cranny of Jamaica,” he said.

JAPEX, an annual event, is hosted by the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) and the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB). It offers the ideal forum for leading suppliers of the country’s tourism product to meet with travel wholesalers and tour operators in a professionally-organised business exchange.

Noting that the country’s greatest asset is its people, Dr. McNeill said it is not by coincidence that many visitors to Jamaica not only keep coming back, but have also formed lifelong bonds and friendships with locals.

“Last winter we had the distinction of having the Sangster International Airport (in Montego Bay) bursting at the seams. As a result, we had to make special arrangements to ensure that the inflow of visitors had a positive airport experience,” the Minister noted.

Dr. McNeill said the demand for Jamaica was higher than ever and consequently “we suffered a shortfall in rooms.” He added that preparations are well advanced for what is expected to be another bumper winter tourist season, with the country expecting to be on par with last season’s record breaking numbers.

“We broke the two million stop-over arrivals barrier for the first time and we have seen increases in cruise arrivals from all our major ports,” he noted.

“Growth has returned to our main markets of the UK and USA, and we are opening up new markets every year. We already have flights from Nordic countries, such as Norway and Sweden and next year we will see the first direct flight from Dublin, Ireland to Montego Bay,” the Minister added.

JAMAICA: Jamaicans Will Benefit From Tourism Boom

Minister of Tourism, Hon. Dr. Wykeham McNeill, said the Government will be ensuring that the levels of growth being experienced in tourism trickles down to other sectors of the economy, and benefits the Jamaican people.

“Our mission and role, above all else, is to see that this growth and optimism in our tourism sector have a meaningful impact on the economy and people of Jamaica,” Dr. McNeill said.

“We need to develop our linkages so that other sectors including agriculture, transport, among others, benefit from it,” he added.

The Minister was addressing a recent JIS Think Tank, where he cited the “unprecedented levels” of investment in the upgrading and development of hotel properties.

“If you travel across the north coast, the Bahia Principe has almost completed expansion; The Royalton in Trelawny is putting in another 200 rooms; the Riu is constructing another 450 rooms, plus an additional 50 rooms in their Montego Bay Palace Hotel,” he pointed out.

He also mentioned the recently opened Sensatori, while the Grand Lido in Negril is to be rebuilt. In addition, the operators of the Secrets Hotel in Montego Bay are building another property called ‘Breathless’.

Dr. McNeill cited upgrades done in 2014 at the Riu Palace, Hyatt (formerly Ritz- Carlton), and the Royalton, while Riu Negril and the Beaches Negril undertook refurbishing works this year.

The Moon Palace Ocho Rios as well as the Courtyard Marriott in Kingston, opened their doors earlier this month, while Mellier Braco is expected to come on stream in early 2016.

“These works are lifting the level of what Jamaica has to offer,” he noted.

The Minister said that the long-term outlook for the industry is very positive, as there are major investments expected.

Among these is the addition of 4,000 rooms by the Karisma Group; 2,500 by China Harbour, as well as 800 rooms in Trelawny by the Ocean by H10 Hotels group.

JAMAICA: US$500-m Tourism Investment - 3,000 New Hotel Rooms Under Construction,

JUST under 3,000 new hotel rooms are now being constructed in Jamaica in what Tourism Minister Dr Wykeham McNeill described as "a massive wave" of investment in the sector valued at US$500 million.

"This investment in new rooms is larger than any other in the history of the industry," McNeill told senior journalists at his New Kingston office yesterday.

The 2,694 rooms are split between new properties and expansion on existing hotels in Negril, Montego Bay, Trelawny, St Ann, and Kingston.

McNeill said they will account for approximately 7,000 jobs in the construction phase, and between 4,000 and 5,000 permanent positions when the hotels are fully operational.

He attributed the investments to strong partnerships created over the past three years, particularly in the United States, and with the world's largest tour operator, TUI Group.

"What you have happening is people doing business in Jamaica being successful and investing in a real way," McNeill said.

Jamaica Tourist Board Chairman Dennis Morrison said the investments were also influenced by amendments to the Hotel Incentives Act which now grant tax breaks to hoteliers for refurbishing.

"The tax system that has been put in place meets a demand that has been made for many years of government," Morrison said.

Previously, the Act provided a 10-year relief from general consumption tax, income tax, and import duty to new hotels, existing hotels adding a minimum of 10 rooms or 30 per cent of the existing number of rooms (whichever is greater), and existing hotels that have done or intend to do substantial structural alteration.

In addition, approved convention hotels with 350 or more bedrooms are entitled to income tax and import duty relief ranging from 11 to 15 years.

"The new regime allows the operator to renew and refresh his property every three or five years, and they will tell you that is the biggest thing, because what you have done is take the taxes off their operating expenses," Morrison said.

McNeill pointed out that another 2,500 rooms are to be built by Chinese investors, and the planned casino resort on the North Coast will add more rooms to the product.

"What you're seeing is a massive wave," he said.

Just over a decade ago, Spanish investors figured prominently on a list of 15 tourism projects which, at the time, was the largest combined investment in the sector with capital of US$400 million and employment capacity of 4,700 jobs.

JAMAICA: Government Announces Renovation Of Milk River Hotel And Spa

Jamaica’s government is seizing on the country’s growing tourist arrivals to focus rehabilitative efforts on a diverse group of hotels, resort areas and traveler amenities beyond the main resort areas of Montego Bay and Ocho Rios.

Earlier this month Jamaica’s Ministry of Tourism and Entertainment announced a $400,000 restoration of the west wing of the Milk River Hotel and Spa, in Clarendon.

Financed by the government’s Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF), the construction project is expected is expected to conclude at the end of September and include an upgrade of the 20-room, government-owned hotel’s electrical and plumbing systems.

Repairs to walls, ceilings and floors will also be made, along with painting and decorating. The Milk River Hotel and Spa is a historic property whose nine mineral baths, fed by a mineral spring at the foot of a hillside where Carpenter's Mountains meet the Vere Plains, are said to have restorative powers.

The hotel has long been a popular pilgrimage for international travelers seeking hydrotherapeutic treatments. Rehabilitation work continues to take place at the hotel said Wykeham McNeill, Jamaica’s tourism minister.

“To date, the TEF has expended some $600,000 [for] the expansion of the pool, remodeling to facilitate disabled-friendly access, general refurbishing and rehabilitation of the property and major landscaping,” he said.

McNeill said Jamaica’s cabinet recently provided the tourism ministry approval for the establishment of an “enterprise team” to guide the development of the Milk River Hotel and Spa in collaboration with the Development Bank of Jamaica.

A 10-member team will make recommendations for the management of the property including the development of adjacent land parcels.

JAMAICA: Jamaica Secures 60,000 New Airline Seats

Jamaica’s set for a major airlift boost this tourist season. The island has secured more than 60,000 new airline seats, according to Tourism Director Paul Pennicook.

The director announced the news during the JAPEX conference in Montego Bay. Of the new seats, about 50,000 are coming out of the United States. “Some of those (flights) will be new to Jamaica and we are very excited about them,” Pennicook said.

“Come Dec. 18, American Airlines introduces a non-stop service from Los Angeles into Montego Bay on weekends. Come November 1, South West Airlines introduces daily service from Houston into Montego Bay and come Dec. 1, Frontier Airlines comes into Montego Bay for days per week from Philadelphia.”

Some of the flights include increased service out of Minneapolis on Delta and flights from Gothenburg, Sweden, Oslo, Norway and potentially one out of Dublin next summer. “We are very excited about the future, because we are having new rooms built, we are having rooms refurbished, products are being upgraded, there are attractions…and we have the airline seats to go with it, so we are looking forward to a wonderful 2016,” Pennicook said.