jamaica tourist board canada

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The Minister’s Welcome
Permanent Secretary
Our Vision & Mission
Citizen's Charter
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Christmas in July 2019
Tourism Demand Study
Tourism Product Development Limited
Jamaica Tourist Board
Jamaica Vacations Ltd.
Devon House Development Limited
Milk River Hotel & Spa
Bath Fountain Hotel & Spa
Montego Bay Convention Centre
Policy Formulation & Technical Coordination
Strategic Business Plan
St. Thomas Destination Plan
Corporate Communications and Public Relations
Corporate Services
Finance & Accounts
Community Tourism
Core Legislation
Related Legislation
Other Legislation
Access To Information
News Releases
Photo Gallery
Video Gallery
Tourism Enhancement Fund
Tourism Product Development Company
Jamaica Vacations Limited
Bath Fountain Hotel and Spa
Devon House Ltd
Milk River Hotel and Spa
Request for Information (RFI)– REF # MT 2022/14 Consultancy to Conduct Diagnostic Study on the Tourism Value Chain System of Jamaica
INVITATION TO TENDER– REF #MT2022/07 Consultancy Services to Develop a Data Governance Framework for the Ministry of Tourism and its Public Bodies
Consultancy for the Undertaking of a Flood Assessment and Mitigation Study of the Milk River and Its Effect on the Milk River Bath Hotel and Spa, Clarendon
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL FOR JAMAICA CARES – TRAVEL HEALTH INSURANCE AND SUPPORT LOGISTICS
Invitation to Tender – REF # MT 2021/01 Re-tender Consultancy Services for a Social Media Services Provider for the Ministry of Tourism
INVITATION TO TENDER - Provision of Closed User Group (CUG) Services
REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST – REF # MT 2020/04 Consultancy Services for a Socio-economic Assessment and Management Study of the Bath Community, St. Thomas
Invitation to Tender – REF # MT 2020/03 Consultancy Services for a Disaster Preparedness Assessment and Disaster Risk Management Plan Template and Guidelines for the Tourism Sector
Invitation to Tender – REF # MT 2019/14 Consultancy Services for the Destination Assurance Framework and Strategy
Consultancy Services for Preparation of a Tourism Destination Management Plan for the Parish of St. Thomas
Performance Monitoring & Evaluation Analyst
Data Protection Officer
Tourism Development Planning Analyst

Mission Statement

To always position destination Jamaica as the pre-eminent Caribbean tourist destination that delivers value for the People and Government of Jamaica and the tourism industry stakeholders.

The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), founded in 1955, is Jamaica's national tourism agency based in the capital city of Kingston. The JTB is a public company governed by a Board of Directors, appointed by the Minister of Tourism. The Director of Tourism, also appointed by the Minister, is the administrative head of the organization and is responsible for the day-to-day activities of the JTB.

The JTB is responsible for the worldwide tourism marketing and promotion for Jamaica. Its mandate has been to promote Jamaica as a preferred travel destination; identify new and emerging consumer groups; cultivate new relationships with travel partners and disseminate timely and useful marketing information to its offices and travel partners worldwide. The Jamaica Tourist Board is the most preferred point of contact for persons travelling to Jamaica. The organization markets the uniqueness and diversity of destination JAMAICA through creative programmes and advertisements worldwide. Throughout the years, the JTB has been recognized for its exceptional leadership and outstanding service with accolades from industry and trade partners both regionally and internationally.

JTB offices are located in Kingston, Montego Bay, Miami, Toronto and London. Representative offices are located in Berlin (Germany), Barcelona (Spain), Rome (Italy), Amsterdam (The Netherlands) and Tokyo (Japan).

Corporate Data

Board of Directors

Mr. John Lynch - Chairman Mr. John Byles - Deputy Chairman Mrs. Nicola Madden-Greig - Director Mr. Bertram Wright - Director Mr. Adam Stewart - Director Mr. Clifton Reader - Director Mr. Josef Forstmayr - Director Mr. Fred Smith - Director Mr. Philipp Hofer - Director Ms. Hyacinth Lightbourne - Director Mrs. Tanikie McClarthy Allen - Director Mr. Donovan White (ex officio) - Director of Tourism

Visit the JTB at: http://www.visitjamaica.com/

64 Knutsford Boulevard, Kingston 5 Jamaica, West Indies

Board of Directors
Executive Team
Departments
Come To Jamaica
Come Back To Jamaica
Make It Jamaica Again
Discover Jamaica
Once You Go, You Know
Once You Go
Home of All Right
The Tourist Board Act
Access to Information
Procurement Procedures
Public Bodies Management & Accountability

John Pringle 1963-1967

E. Stewart Sharpe 1967- 1970

Eric Anthony Abrahams 1970-1975

Adrian Robinson 1975-1978

Desmond Henry 1978-1980

John Gentles 1980-1984

Carrole Guntley-Brady 1984-1990

Robert Stephens 1990 ??? 1992

Fay Pickersgill 1994 – 2003

Paul Pennicook 2003-2006

Basil Smith 2006 – 2008

John Lynch 2008-2014

Paul Pennicook 2014-2017

Jamaica Tourist Board
Tourism In Jamaica
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Information & Resource Center
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Jamaica on the Web

Visitjamaica Now
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Industry Affiliates

Tourism Product Development Company
Jamaica Hotel & Tourist Association
Caribbean Tourism Organization
Jamaica Association of Villas & Apartments
Jamaica Information Service
Cruise Jamaica (PAJ)
Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association
Casino Gaming Commission
CIA Library

Map of Jamaica

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Jamaica Tourist Board

JAMAICA TOURISM BOARD (JTB), founded in 1955, is Jamaica’s national tourism agency based in the capital city of Kingston. The JTB was declared the Caribbean’s Leading Tourist Board by the World Travel Awards (WTA) from 2006 to 2014. Also in 2014, Jamaica earned the WTA’s vote for the Caribbean’s Leading Destination and Caribbean’s Leading Cruise Destination for the eighth consecutive year. Additionally, the Historic Falmouth Cruise Port was recognized as the Caribbean’s Leading Heritage Tour while Ocho Rios was named the Caribbean’s Leading Cruise Port and Sangster International Airport was voted the Caribbean’s Leading Airport. In Canada, Jamaica was voted the Favourite Honeymoon Destination by travel agents.

Feel the vibe

Come on and find your holiday rhythm.

What really makes Jamaica the slice of paradise it is, is the gorgeous, rich culture of those who live here. Learn about our cuisine, traditions, art, language and music and find yourself falling into step with the island of All Right.

www.visitjamaica.com/canada

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Jamaica travel advice

Latest updates: Health - editorial update

Last updated: September 9, 2024 16:15 ET

Violent crime

Violent crime, including armed robbery and murder, is a problem in large cities and tourist areas, including parts of Kingston and Montego Bay, despite the presence of police to counter criminal activity. The availability of firearms is widespread, and most violent drug- and gang-related crimes, especially murder, involve firearms. There is a risk of becoming the victim of crossfire in these areas. Tourists are also at risk of crimes of opportunity, especially theft and robberies.

Crimes tend to be concentrated within what the police refer to as “traditional hot spots” or “high-risk communities”, but can take place anywhere and at any time.

The following areas have a significant gang population and high incidences of violent crime:

Greater Kingston

Arnett Gardens
August Town
Cassava Piece
Delacree Park
Denham Town
Felstead Pen
Grant’s Pen
Greenwich Town
Hannah Town
Harbour View
Lower Cockburn Gardens
Mountain View
Olympic Gardens
Rennock Lodge
Riverton City
Seaview Gardens
Tavares Gardens
Tivoli Gardens
Trench Town
Waltham Gardens
West Kingston
Whitfield Town

St. Catherine

Central Village
Ravensworth
Spanish Town

Montego Bay

Hart Street
Mount Salem
Norwood Gardens
Rose Heights
St. Clavers Avenue

South Coast

If you decide to travel to these areas:

maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times
avoid visiting or travelling at night
follow the advice of local authorities
avoid walking alone, even during the day
go out in groups with people that you know
avoid visiting isolated areas and beaches

If you’re threatened by robbers, don’t resist, and hand over your cash and valuables. Resistance may provoke the use of violence.

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, are common in major tourist areas and crowded places.

Ensure that your belongings and travel documents are secure at all times
Don’t carry large amounts of cash
Don’t show signs of affluence
Use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
Protect your cell phone, which is a popular item for theft
Use the hotel safe to secure your valuables
Don’t leave valuables in plain view, even while you are in your hotel room
Enquire with reception upon check-in on security precautions related to theft from hotel rooms

State of emergency

Local authorities periodically declare a state of emergency in various parishes to fight against gang-related crime.

When a state of emergency is in effect, security forces have increased rights to conduct searches, seizures, and detain persons of interest.

If you are travelling in an area where a state of emergency is in effect:

be aware that you may be subject to searches by security forces
always cooperate with military and police officers
carry valid ID at all times and be prepared for various checkpoints
allow extra time to reach your destination
follow the instructions of local authorities
monitor local news to stay informed on the current situation

2SLGBTQI+ persons

2SLGBTQI+ persons have experienced harassment and verbal or physical abuse.

Avoid public displays of affection.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Women's safety and sexual assault

There have been reports of sexual assaults at tourist resorts carried out by resort staff and, in some cases, by other tourists. Women travelling alone are often harassed.

Be particularly vigilant if you are staying at a smaller or isolated establishment with less security. Compounds that are gated and guarded are considered the safest accommodation option in Jamaica.

Be wary of strangers who seem friendly
Refrain from excessive drinking, especially at all-inclusive resorts
Ensure that your hotel room doors and windows are locked

Advice for women travellers

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum, or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as they may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. When using debit or credit cards:

pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Romance scams

Internet romance scams via dating apps, websites or social media have occurred. Criminals especially target apps and websites popular among 2SLGBTQI+ travellers.

Assaults and incidents of robbery have occurred as a result of encounters set up through dating apps.

Be wary of people who profess friendship or romantic interest over the internet
Keep in mind that you may be the victim of a scam if you are travelling to Jamaica to meet an online contact
Plan to meet in a known, secure location
Be wary of inviting new acquaintances into your accommodation

Lottery scams

Tourists have been targets of lottery scams. Scammers convince targets that they have won a prize or lottery, but must pay a fee to claim their winnings.

Never send money to someone in Jamaica who says you’ve won a lottery or prize
Never travel to Jamaica to claim a “prize” or money

Overseas fraud

Demonstrations

Demonstrations may occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation. Criminals often use these events to pickpocket demonstrators.

Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
Follow the instructions of local authorities
Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Water activities

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Riptides are common.

Not all beaches have lifeguards or warning flags.

Exercise caution when swimming
Don’t swim alone, after hours or outside marked areas
Consult residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas

Water sports

Tour operators may not adhere to international standards.

If you participate in water sports:

choose a well-established and reputable company that has insurance
ensure that safety equipment, such as helmets and life jackets, are available and in good condition
ensure that your travel insurance covers the recreational activities you choose

If in doubt concerning the safety of the facilities or equipment, don’t use them.

Water safety abroad

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country. Coastal roads are in fair condition but driving in inland can be dangerous due to:

narrow, winding roads
insufficient road maintenance
poor lighting
inadequate signage
poor lane markings
damage to roads during the hurricane season

Speeding, as well as driving under the influence of marijuana or alcohol, are common.

When driving between Norman Manley International Airport and Kingston, take the South Camp Road – also known as the Hummingbird Route – rather than Mountain View Avenue, where several robbery incidents have been reported.

Roadside assistance is available island-wide.

Stay on main roads as much as possible
Drive defensively
Keep vehicle windows closed and doors locked
Keep valuables out of sight

Public transportation

Public transportation is generally not safe due to high levels of crime and overcrowding.

Knutsford Express offers safe, reliable and comfortable bus transportation between major towns.

Avoid travelling on local city buses.

Taxis and ridesharing services

Avoid taking unmarked taxis due to the risk of robbery and sexual assault.

Use only taxis ordered from hotels and authorized by the Jamaica Union of Travellers Association (JUTA). These are identified by red-and-white “PP” licence plates and a lime-green JUTA sticker on the window.

Agree on the fare with the driver before departure, since taxis aren’t metered
Don’t share a taxi with strangers

Ridesharing services are also available and generally safe. If you use a trusted ridesharing app, confirm the driver’s identity and the licence plate before getting in the car.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Jamaican authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for the expected duration of your stay in Jamaica.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

Foreign Representatives in Canada
Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required Work visa: not required Business visa: not required Student visa: not required

Immigration officers will generally grant visitors to Jamaica visitor landed status for 90 days. You must seek an extension if you are planning to stay up to an additional 90 days. You may request an extension at any immigration office. For stays beyond 90 days, you will require a visa.

Overstaying a visa or entry stamp is a criminal offence and can lead to prison time, heavy fines and deportation.

Persons found working illegally may be held in a local prison until arrangements for their return to Canada are made at their own cost.

Passport, Immigration & Citizenship Agency – Government of Jamaica

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

You must provide certain information to immigration officials. You can do this online before arriving in Jamaica, or complete and sign a Jamaican immigration landing card, usually given to travellers upon arrival at the airport or during the flight. If you complete the immigration landing card:

present it to an immigration official at the airport
retain the card and present it to immigration officials upon departure from Jamaica

Immigration/Customs C5 card – Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
Dengue: Advice for travellers - 9 September, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary.

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

Vaccination is not recommended.
Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
Contact a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus. Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.

The flu occurs worldwide.

In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to April.
In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and October.
In the tropics, there is flu activity year round.

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional.

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs.

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.

Salmonellosis is a common illness among travellers to this country. It can be spread through contaminated food or beverages, such as raw or undercooked poultry and eggs, as well as fruits or vegetables.

Practice safe food and water precautions . This includes only eating food that is properly cooked and still hot when served.

Pregnant women, children under 5 years of age, those over 60 years of age, and those with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of becoming seriously ill.

Most people recover on their own without medical treatment and from proper rehydration (drinking lots of fluids).

Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Travellers with severe symptoms should consult a health care professional as soon as possible.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
Minimize exposure to insects
Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country. The level of risk may vary by:

The virus that causes chikungunya is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times.

Learn more:

Insect bite and pest prevention Chikungunya

In this country, dengue is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country.

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel.

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

washing your hands often
avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome).

High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.

Medical services and facilities

Adequate medical facilities exist in all tourist areas and in Kingston.

Medical care and facilities are limited in remote areas. Ambulance services are limited across the country and are provided by the Jamaica Fire Brigade and private services.

Medical services can be very expensive. Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays. Even if you have medical insurance, you may need to make a deposit or pay upfront for medical treatment and submit a claim to your insurance provider for reimbursement. If you do not have travel insurance, clinics may require payment upfront or a credit card as a guarantee of payment before providing medical care.

You may be evacuated to another country if you need specialized care or have a serious injury.

If a death occurs while abroad, the issuance of a death certificate can take up to a year.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Jamaican law prohibits sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. Other related offences include being in a same-sex marriage and the "promotion of homosexuality." Those convicted can face sentences of up to 10 years in prison, though authorities rarely enforce the law.

2SLGBTQI+ persons could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex characteristics.

Though violence against 2SLGBTQI+ persons and their allies has declined significantly over the past decade, 2SLGBTQI+ travellers should:

carefully consider the risks of travelling to Jamaica
be cautious and avoid public displays of affection with someone of the same sex

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy prison sentences.

Departing visitors are thoroughly screened for drug possession. Many Canadians are serving prison sentences for drug crimes, in some cases committed unwittingly. When leaving Ocho Rios and Montego Bay by cruise ship, you may be searched for drugs by local authorities. You should have a witness accompany you if you undergo such procedures.

Pack all luggage yourself
Don’t carry anything through customs for anyone else

Jamaica decriminalized the possession of up to two ounces of cannabis, which will be punishable by a fine and will not result in a criminal record. Smoking cannabis in public places, however, remains prohibited. Jamaican authorities continue to enforce strict laws against the possession and trafficking of narcotics, in accordance with international agreements to combat drug trafficking.

Don’t attempt to depart Jamaica and cross international borders with any amount of cannabis.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Illegal activities

It’s illegal to:

wear, buy or sell army or police camouflage clothing
nudist bathing in non-designated areas
use of indecent language

Imports and exports

There are strict import and export regulations on:

fruits and vegetables
animals, including pets
animal products

Entering the country with a firearm or even a single round of ammunition is considered a serious crime.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Jamaica.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Jamaica, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Jamaica.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Jamaica by an abducting parent:

act as quickly as you can
consult a lawyer in Canada and in Jamaica to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
Request emergency assistance

Traffic drives on the left.

You can drive in Jamaica with a valid Canadian driver’s licence for up to six months. After 6 months, you must obtain a Jamaican driver’s licence.

It is mandatory to wear a helmet on mopeds, motor scooters and motorcycles, and to wear a seatbelt in cars and taxis. There are heavy fines for non-compliance.

You should carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

Investments

If you plan on buying property or making other investments in Jamaica, seek legal advice in Canada and in Jamaica. Do so before making commitments. Related disputes could take time and be costly to resolve.

The currency of Jamaica is the Jamaican dollar (JMD).

Hotels and businesses catering to tourists accept major credit cards.

There is limited ATM availability outside Kingston and Montego Bay. Make sure you have enough cash to cover your expenses if travelling outside these areas.

Hurricane season

Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services. You could face serious safety risks during a hurricane.

If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:

be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
Severe storms outside Canada
Large-scale emergencies outside Canada
Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings – U.S. National Hurricane Center

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Jamaica is located in an active seismic zone. It is subject to earthquakes and is at risk of tsunamis.

A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor. If you’re staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region’s evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.

In the event of an earthquake:

monitor local media for the latest information
follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
Earthquakes – What to Do?
Latest earthquakes – U.S. Geological Survey
Tsunami warning system – U.S. National Weather Service

Local services

police: 119
medical assistance: 911
firefighters: 911

Tourist information

Jamaica Tourist Board offices are located throughout the island. They have direct radio links with local police and information on safe public beaches.

Jamaica Tourist Board

Consular assistance

Bahamas, Cayman Islands, Turks and Caicos Islands

For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada in Jamaica, in Kingston, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Community News

Jamaica tourism is on the rise, and everyone can get a piece of the pie.

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

“Welcome back to Toronto Mr White and thank you for taking some time to speak with the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper.”

I was on a Zoom call with Donovan White Jamaica’s Director of Tourism. Mr White, along with Angella Bennett (Regional Director, Jamaica Tourist Board Canada) and other members of the JTB team were hosting a trade event last at Cirillo’s Academy in Toronto.

“I can only imagine how many times you have answered some of the questions I am going to ask.” “Well yes,” Mr White replied jokingly. “This is part of my job after all.”

“So let’s jump right into it; what exciting new developments do travellers have to look forward to when visiting Jamaica this year,” I questioned?

“As you know Simone, the pandemic hit Jamaica very hard; it hit the entire tourism industry hard, but our recovery has gone considerably well. We are thankful, and elated that we have achieved some of the milestones we have hit.

Jamaica had 3.4 million visitors last year, and that is exciting news, because we overdid our destination numbers. Our numbers from Canada were phenomenal; 256,000 visitors from Canada, and from January 2023 to March 2023 we had 177,000 visitors from Canada to Jamaica.”

Jamaica is projected to have 120,000 visitors for the summer months, and this has the Caribbean island sitting pretty with an estimated 290,000 visitors from this market by the end of August. That represents 15% market share from Canada for Jamaica. With stats like that, Donovan White couldn’t be happier.

“The numbers are extremely good,” Mr White said proudly. “It is clear that the Canadian market has responded to the efforts of our team. The tourism team led by Angella Bennet has done a fantastic job. The strong numbers from the Canadian market show good adaptability as Canadians went from not travelling to suddenly, wonderfully, travelling. It shows that demand for Jamaica has always been there, and that we are definitely on the come up.”

In 2017, Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett, launched Jamaica’s ‘5 by 5 by 5’ program, targeting five million visitors and US$5 billion in revenues in five years. The end date for those goals, in the wake of the pandemic, has been reset to 2024 and “We’re well on our way,” said Mr White shared. “In the next three to five years, Jamaica will also add 15,000+ new rooms to its hotel and resort offering.

Ocean Eden Bay, sister property to Ocean Coral Springs, opened during the pandemic. Meanwhile there have been ground-breaking for both the new Princess Hotels & Resorts property in Negril, with the first phase expected to open in February 2024. The Prince Hotel is in construction with 2,000 rooms being prepared for visitors in Hanover.

Meanwhile RIU is working on its new RIU Aquarelle resort in Trelawney, with a projected 700 rooms opening in April 2024. The Hardrock Group (Unico Hotel Brand) are working on an 1800 room resort in Montego, prepping for late 2024, and Sandals reclaimed Dons River as part of their portfolio. They have this new swanky hotel that is sure to draw the elite of the elite.

There are also Secrets in Saint Anne, and Charisma in Saint Anne’s that are all on dock for 2024,” Mr. White discloses. “There is just so much happening, and we are anticipating a large influx of visitors in the next few years.”

“How about tourist attractions? Jamaica is known for their variety, I am curious as to how tourist attractions have evolved.”

“Well,” Mr White explains, “Tour companies numbers are increasing. There is active participation in the community. One thing that I want people to know about Jamaica is that it is not just an all-inclusive enclave. Jamaica is evolving and maturing. The island is doing very well, and this is attracting investors who see Jamaica as a commodity.”

Times have changed, and there are some people who go on vacation who prefer to call themselves travellers. These are people who want to fully experience every new location they visit. This means leaving all the luxurious amenities of their hotel, or the cool rustic comfort of their bohemian getaway to explore all Jamaica has to offer, and that’s quite a list.

There is no need to head to the hills for that homey feeling; now visitors can head to the smaller communities and former fishing villages along the coast and wake up to views of the multi-hued Caribbean Sea before they head out for a stroll along the main road.

Trips up the Blue Mountain have become a popular attraction, Kingston has surged with the addition of: Kingston Creative, The Rock Hotel, and The Water Lane Development (art district). In places like Drapers in the area by Port Antonio you can head to the local ice cream spot to hob knob, or drive right into town where everyone hangs out in the streets and you can possibly catch a good game of dominos, or dance the night away.

Central Ocho Rios is noisy and extremely pedestrian friendly where you can rub shoulders, feel the heartbeat of the day-to-day life of the town, and still retire to all the comforts of your hotel at the end of the day.

What I really appreciated was this push to encourage entrepreneurship, utilizing tourism as the foundation.

“What we want is producers of fruits and vegetables to see the business opportunities that come from people visiting the island. We want entrepreneurs to see tourism as a way to expand their business. We are actively finding ways to enable business people in Jamaica to be involved in the tourism industry. There is an even stronger focus on buying local. Tourists are giving back to Jamaican locals, and this is amazing for our economy,” Mr White tells me enthusiastically.

It is not a surprise to me at all that Jamaica continues to be one of the world’s top destination choices. It is amazing that the tourism industry now taps into the creativity of the island, and is providing an opportunity for everyone to get a piece of the pie.

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We, as humans are guaranteed certain things in life: stressors, taxes, bills and death are the first thoughts that pop to mind. It is not uncommon that many people find a hard time dealing with these daily life stressors, and at times will find themselves losing control over their lives. Simone Jennifer Smith’s great passion is using the gifts that have been given to her, to help educate her clients on how to live meaningful lives. The Hear to Help Team consists of powerfully motivated individuals, who like Simone, see that there is a need in this world; a need for real connection. As the founder and Director of Hear 2 Help, Simone leads a team that goes out into the community day to day, servicing families with their educational, legal and mental health needs.Her dedication shows in her Toronto Caribbean newspaper articles, and in her role as a host on the TCN TV Network.

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BY STEVEN KASZAB

I am an: amateur Zoologist, nature lover, and Canadian. I encourage all Canadians to learn about, explore, and get involved with the incredible gifts that Canada’s wilderness has to offer.

Researchers of all things natural, wildlife and climate have been applying different technologies using artificial intelligence as controls, scribes and collectors of information for the last decade. Implanting tracers upon wildlife has been difficult in the past, as to keeping records given by these trackers, correlating and tallying for understandable information. This has changed with major implications to the human species as well. Extremely small trackers can be placed upon wildlife and last year’s allowing researchers the ability to: find, follow, and track these species in real time and over a number of years becoming fully familiar with them. Cameras are now so small that animals cannot spot them and destroy them as they have been doing.

A.I. has advanced so far as to predicting an animal’s: daily routine, its health, habits, and possible time of death. This information is applied to the present and future management of multiple: waterfowl, birds, reptiles and other species. The advancement of technology is being applied also to the tracking of people, used by intelligence agencies, police and governmental sectors worldwide.

This should concern you. Cameras everywhere intended to catch speeders on our roadways, shoplifters in our retail environments, those who enter corporate, or government lobbies are all under camera inspection. While London may be the city with the most cameras per population density parameters, your local has cameras everywhere taking a picture of you and your passengers, those who go with you to restaurants, shops and the theater as well. Eyes are upon you at all times until you get home, right? Well, there are certain appliances, electrical devices that monitor you also, some legal, some illegally. Not to mention the multiple cameras in your neighborhood positioned near and away from a neighbour’s home towards the street level. Much of this technology is scanned by humans, but imagine when all technology is controlled and scanned for summary decisions by A.I.?

Driving on a local road going to get some milk at the corner store. A.I. cameras keep an eye upon you, collecting data as well as the possibility of cashing in on: some costly tickets for speeding, not stopping at stop lights, strange behavior while driving, driving too close to buses especially near schools. There presently are cameras in use that can do all the mentioned services and more. In my community there are four speed cameras. Information on the type of cameras and their capabilities is not known to the public.

Also, there are camera’s out there hidden from view intended in not only slowing down traffic but keeping an eye upon the public. Local governments see these cameras as sources of revenue, but also intelligence gathering policing devices enabling them to fight crimes such as: breaking and entering, drug traffic operations, prostitution, and protection of governmental staff and property.

A.I. is becoming a great help in the managing and protection of wildlife, while it presents itself as a possible threat to our personal and business privacy. The future holds challenges to the boundaries of what governments expectations are vs our privacy and personal protection. Cheaters, criminals, those who attempt to hide themselves and their actions beware. Big Brother has its eyes on you!

Toronto once again shows the world that fashion lives here! African Fashion Week Toronto 2024

BY SYDNEE WALCOTT

While Black-owned business brands have always been around, the number of Black-owned businesses started seeing a higher increase in the late 2010s, and there’s no sign of slowing down anytime soon.

The High Fashion Designer Showcases and the AFWT (African Fashion Week Toronto) Runway Show was the place to be on August 23 rd , 2024. The fashion show saw Sankofa Square (formerly Yonge and Dundas Square) convert into a runway, where models strutted, wearing clothing designed by talented local Black designers.

African Fashion Week Toronto (AFWT) is a not-for-profit initiative started in 2012 by Isaac Ansah to provide a platform for Black models, designers and creatives to succeed in the fashion industry.

During the daytime, the first part of the fashion show presented just the models strutting down the runway. As daytime transitioned into nighttime, the second half turned into a Rip The Runway-style, consisting of models walking down the runway while a singing or dancing performance took place.

With the event all about highlighting the designs of crafted Black designers, here’s a list of the brands featured in this year’s fashion show:

Remmy Tee : Remmy Tee’s brand specializes in high-quality scarves designed from 100 percent mulberry silk, known for being more: progressing, smoother, lighter and more durable, unlike other types. The scarves are also natural, breathable, and supple on the skin.

House of Filyfing : The vision of Rabiya Tou’s brand is to celebrate the power of appearance. For women, looks can be a key to unlocking opportunities where only impressions matter. The brand worships the essence of being a woman and the impact of female empowerment through formal and semi-formal clothing with an African touch.

Mia Swim Wear : Although Fall is around the corner, summer is still in full swing with the Mia Swim Wear brand. Designed by Mia Swim Wear, the summer-themed brand has the perfect blend of sophisticated swimwear and summer clothing for both women and men.

Kurve Kouture : Kurve Kouture is a Nigerian-based clothing brand for curvy women who are proud of their figures and enjoy flaunting their curves. The formal pieces empower curvy women to wear stylish and sophisticated clothing, allowing their natural confidence to shine.

Omomamae Koncept and Clothing (OMK) : Omomamae Koncept and Clothing (OMK) is an established premier fashion brand by Adesanmi Oluwagbnega. The unisex fashion brand sells clothing for every occasion: elegant suits, casual wear, traditional attire and contemporary pieces. Since its establishment in 2008, OMK captured widespread recognition in numerous fashion shows and earned countless awards for its designs.

Ambition : Created by the founder of the African Fashion Week Toronto initiative, Isaac Ansah, Ambition is a newly-founded brand created to represent: inspiration, success and growth. The clothing brand specializes in comforting everyday loungewear with a stylish touch.

NUYU by Stacey : Although Stacey-Ann Vassell’s line designs clothing for women and children of all shapes and sizes, the children’s line is the most captivating. The brand, which stands for Never Underestimate Your Uniqueness, sells luxurious casual and semi-formal clothing, allowing women and children to stay stylish no matter how simple the design is.

QueenFecy : Queen Fecy, a Nigerian-born fashion designer, has a fashion brand that represents more than just fashion alone. Her formal fashion brand, QueenFecy, speaks for her work as a public speaker, philanthropist, and advocate for empowering Black people and youth through all aspects.

The runway show wasn’t all to look forward to that day. In between showcases, acclaimed singers of Black heritage performed a medley of their hits throughout the show. The roster of artists the audience got to be entertained by included: B’Kem, Cobby Kai, Sophia, DT the Artist, and Silla.

The event’s official presenter, Shark Beauty, did a giveaway where audience members could go home with a Shark Beauty product. All they had to do was compete in a series of challenges.

Toronto once again shows the world that fashion lives here!

Black-led, Black-focused, and Black-serving community agencies projected to increase their capacity to deliver services in Peel

BY PAUL JUNOR

It was an historic and significant day at the City of Brampton City Hall on Sunday, August 10 th , 2024, when the Region of Peel launched its first B3 Fund.

It was over four years ago in June 2020 that Peel Region’s Council approved Resolution 2020-1448. This resolution affirms its commitment to address systemic discrimination by supporting policies, equitable funding, and programs that address the inequities faced by the Black community and other organized groups in Peel. This resulted in the formation of the Community Investment Program, which received formal support from the: Diversity, Equity and Anti-Racism Committee as well as the Regional Council in 2023.

The subsequent development of the B3 Funding Framework was intended to respond to Council’s recommendation to ensure Black-led and Black-led serving social service agencies in Peel are funded equitably through regional funding mechanisms. This funding framework for: Black-led, Black-focused, and Black-serving (B3) community agencies was projected to increase their capacity to deliver services in Peel. Some of the accomplishments of the Community Investment program include:

Development of an action plan in 2020 to use an equity lens to support thinking and discussion around equity within the CIP granting streams.
Realignment of $1.3 million to the long-term and medium-term priorities of the COVID-19 pandemic to address racial and systemic discrimination. In 2020 and 2021, 35% and 37% of successful applicants for the Capacity and Change Fund were Black-led, Black-focused and Black-serving.
Development and implementation of a new Service Provider Profile Section within GooGrants-Peel Region’s online grant management platform in 2023 to collect key equity information.

There were several aspects to the plan which includes the following:

B3 Advisory Board Creation
B3 Funding Framework Development
B3 Funding Implementation

The B3 Advisory Board is a community based social service agencies which consist of regional staff and others who have worked together to affect the following:

Inform, educate, consult, and c-design the development of the B3 Funding Framework
Ensure the: interests, perspectives, and needs of Black communities in Peel are reflected throughout the c-development process. There was a crude cross section of stakeholders including those from the 2LGBTQIA + food services.

Councillor Martin Reid states, “This was a long time coming. It’s just great to see so much thought put into supporting these grassroots organizations, which often don’t have formal non-profit status. This is an opportunity to not only support those organizations, but also to coach them along the way.”

Councilor Reid is supportive of the work that Juliet Jackson, Peel Region’s Director of Culture & Inclusion is doing to ensure that these funding programs are available. In a released statement, she states, “ The B3 Fund responds to historical funding disparities from all levels of government. We are proud to provide the necessary resources and support to foster measurable change within our community.”

Dogma Koy, Founder of Restoration and Empowerment for Social Transition Centre (REST) described the importance of the funding. She states, “REST Centres is excited about the 2024 B3 Fund. As Black youth continue to represent the largest youth population facing housing insecurity in Peel, this fund represents a crucial opportunity to bolster our core operation, allowing us to further our mission of supporting Black youth with greater effectiveness.” She elaborates further, “The potential impact of this funding will significantly strengthen our ability to deliver essential services and drive meaningful change in our community. We eagerly anticipate the transformative possibilities this support will bring.”

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Jamaica gets major boost in Canadian tourism market

Jamaica’s tourism industry got a massive push from Canadian media outlets during recent live broadcasts across 12 Canadian radio stations and popular Canadian morning television programme. Both events were hosted at Sandals South Coast, Westmoreland.

The two weeks of coverage, co-organised and funded by Sandals Resorts and the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), kicked off with the ‘Password to Paradise’ radio remote that saw more than 1.5 million listeners tuning in daily to well-known disc jockeys from provinces such as Niagara, Peterborough, Ottawa, Halifax, and Kingston, among others.

While many listeners were up at the break of dawn to hear about the grand experiences on the island from the radio personalities, many also vied daily to win one of 30 trips to also experience Jamaica. As a well-liked travel destination, Sandals and the JTB aim to continue positioning Jamaica as the place to vacation and explore business ventures.

Additionally, Sandals South Coast hosted Canada’s longest-running morning TV show Breakfast Television (BT) to continue boosting Jamaica’s rich culture and the plethora of natural attractions to enjoy.

Principal of the Canadian public relations company Pembroke PR, Tracy McCann, who was in charge of the logistics for both broadcasts, shared that the coverage will be a major push for Jamaica’s tourism industry as CityTV (the home station for Breakfast Television ) reaches one million Torontonians weekly and 14.1 million Canadians monthly. .

General manager at Sandals South Coast O’Brian Heron shared that the recent radio remote and television broadcasts showcased parts of Jamaica that many tourists may not be familiar with.

“This has been a great opportunity to share our beautiful island with the Canadian community. While we hope that this will translate into new visitors for not just our resort and the Sandals brand, but the bigger picture is how our country and the Caribbean will benefit,” said Heron.

While enjoying their time on resort, both groups had a chance to explore the island on various excursions and also had the opportunity to partake in community outreach initiatives led by the Sandals Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Sandals Resorts.

ALSO ON JAMAICA OBSERVER

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Antigua and Barbuda Is the Caribbean’s Fastest-Growing Economy

Canadian Tourism Returns to Jamaica

Canadian tourism has officially returned to Jamaica.

The island welcomed back the first Air Canada flight following a six-month hiatus, with Air Canada’s first Dreamliner flight to the country.

“Canada is the second-largest source market for Jamaica and the return of Canadian tourism in Jamaica is welcome news for our country’s hotel partners, attractions, transportation providers, hospitality workers, and the thousands of individuals employed in our tourism related industries,” said Edmund Bartlett, Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism. “I am pleased to welcome the return of Air Canada to Jamaica after the six-month hiatus from January this year.”

Air Canada and WestJet are the first Canadian carriers to resume service this summer to Montego Bay.

Jamaican officials say more than 280,000 air seats have been secured from Canada to Jamaica for the upcoming winter tourist season.

“Air Canada is very pleased to resume our passenger service to Jamaica, which we have proudly served for more than 70 years,” said Luis Noriega Benet, General Manager, Latin America and the Caribbean for Air Canada. “There is no doubt many Canadians are looking to travel to Jamaica for a long-postponed sun holiday. As well, there are many people both in Jamaica and Canada who are eager to visit with friends and family members they have not been able to see since the pandemic began. We look forward to welcoming everyone on board and celebrating together the rebirth of travel.”

— CJ

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Jamaica Makes Its Presence Known In Canada

October 2, 2023

Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett was in Canada in late September, making it clear that the destination had a goal of attracting half a million Canadian visitors to the island by 2025.

Minister Bartlett was accompanied by Jamaica’s Director of Tourism, Donovan White, and Fiona Fennell, Public Relations and Communications Manager for the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) for the winter season marketing blitz in Toronto alongside JTB Regional Director for Canada, Angella Bennett.

The multi-day mission took place from Sept. 20 to Sept. 23 and included a series of industry engagements with travel partners, community groups and local media.

Throughout the week, Jamaica’s top tourism officials conducted meetings with senior executives from Air Canada Vacations, Sunwing, Travel Brands, and Canada Jetlines, which begins flying to Montego Bay on Nov. 5. The strategic discussions focused on the integral role that airlines and tour operators will play in driving the destination’s new 500,000-visitor goal, and the importance of collaboration between the JTB and industry partners in order to increase airlift and vacation packages to Jamaica for Canadian travellers.

Minister Bartlett observed: “Canada represents major potential to attract a significant number of visitors to the island. We recently revealed an ambitious new goal to target half a million Canadian visitors annually by the end of 2025. Connecting with key tourism partners and stakeholders in the market this month allows us to nurture these critical industry relationships while identifying strategic growth tactics that will help us realize this 500,000-visitor objective.”

As part of its new growth plan, the JTB is looking to tap into the Asian-Canadian diaspora as an important emerging market for the island’s tourism sector. Minister Bartlett highlighted the importance of the Asian demographic and the historical ties between Jamaica and China during his keynote address at the Mandarin Holidays/Sunbook gala event hosted in Toronto on Sept. 20. The event attracted more than 200 travel agents, tour operators and industry representatives who specialize in servicing the local Asian Canadian community.

The delegation from Jamaica also travelled to Hamilton to tour the extensive archive of the Hon. Louise Bennett-Coverly (Miss Lou) at McMaster University. Minister Bartlett heralded the impressive collection of personal artifacts from the beloved Jamaican poet, folklorist, writer and educator.

During his time at the University, the Minister also began a dialogue with the leadership to explore the possibility of establishing Satellite Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre (GTRCMC) for further building tourism resilience across the globe.

Additional events and engagements during Minister Bartlett’s in-market mission included a ‘Come Back to Luxury’ dinner event to launch Jamaica’s new luxury-focused partnership with Ensemble, the Edith Baxter Memorial Award luncheon and presentation of the inaugural Resilience Awards by the GTRCMC, and the Canada Regional Jamaica Diaspora Conference.

On Sept. 25, Director Donovan White, Regional Director Angella Bennett, and PR and Communications Manager Fiona Fennell travelled onward to Montréal to meet with representatives from Air Transat and host a special Destination Update event for French-Canadian travel advisors and industry partners in the Québec region.

White said that: “As Jamaica’s second-largest source market, Canada has seen tremendously strong growth over the last year. Our arrivals from 2023 are expected to outpace 2022 by more than 40 percent, and this is in large part due to the JTB’s strong working relationships with industry partners in Canada, and our strategic efforts to engage the retail travel community from coast to coast.”

Go to www.visitjamaica.com for more.

IN THE PHOTOS

Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism Hon. Edmund Bartlett (left), speaks to Air Canada Vacations Senior Executives at a working breakfast meeting on Sept. 21 during Jamaica’s in-market winter marketing campaign. Looking on are Donovan White, Director of Tourism, Jamaica (centre) and Angella Bennett, Regional Director, Canada, Jamaica Tourist Board (right).

SECOND PHOTO

Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett (centre), and Director of Tourism, Donovan White (far right), met with Canada Jetlines representatives (from left) Sanjay Kopalkar, Director of Sales and Business Development; Charles McKee, Chief Commercial Officer; and Eddie Doyle, President and CEO, in Toronto on Sept. 22.

THIRD PHOTO

Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett (second from left) pauses for a moment during a working breakfast meeting with Senior Executives of Air Canada Vacations. Pictured also are (left from right) JTB representatives Fiona Fennell, Public Relations and Communications Manager; Director of Tourism for Jamaica, Donovan White; and Angella Bennett, Regional Director for Canada, Jamaica Tourist Board; and Air Canada Vacations representatives Diana Rodriquez, Product Director; Shirley Lam, Manager of Product; and Dina Bertolo, Vice President of Product Development.

FOURTH PHOTO

Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, addressing attendees at the Mandarin Holidays/Sunbook gala event held in Toronto on Sept. 20.

FIFTH PHOTO

Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett (centre), pauses for a photo during a tour of the Hon. Louise Bennett-Coverly archive at McMaster University. Also present were (left to right) Donovan White, Director of Tourism for Jamaica; Vivian Lewis, Librarian at McMaster University; Younna Bailey Magalhaes, Consul at the Consulate General of Jamaica; Dr. David Farrar, President of McMaster University; Kurt Davis, Consul General of Jamaica for Toronto; Angella Bennett, Regional Director for Canada, JTB; and Fiona Fennell, PR and Communications Manager, JTB.

SIXTH PHOTO

Donovan White, Director of Tourism for Jamaica; Emilie Giguère, Business Development Officer, Québec and Atlantic Canada, JTB; Julia Ventura, Business Development Officer, Québec, Palladium Hotel Group; Fiona Fennell, PR and Communications Manager, JTB; and Angella Bennett, Regional Director, Canada, JTB. pose for photo during a Destination Update event in Montréal on Sept. 25.

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For the last 10 months, Noel Harrison's tour bus has sat mostly idle. The pandemic put a stop to the vacations that used to keep him busy shuttling tourists around the sun-soaked resort town of Montego Bay.

In the last few months, he was hoping Jamaica had turned a corner. Hotels were reopening and tourists were starting to trickle back. But then came another blow in a year filled with adversity: Canada cancelled all flights to the Caribbean.

"That was a shocker to us, because we get a lot of business from Canada," said the 54-year old Harrison who has worked in tourism for almost 20 years. "That was a big blow to us. We just don't know when a disaster will strike."

The decision to cancel all flights to the Caribbean until April 30, announced by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau last week , caught many in Jamaica's tourism industry off-guard. Jamaica's government, along with industry and private partners, had just completed a mad rush to provide a new testing and quarantine system to accommodate North American requirements that visitors return with negative COVID-19 results.

'Unintended consequences'

In an interview with CBC News, Jamaican Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett said he was surprised by the extent of the measures Canada took, though he recognized that countries must do what they can to manage the pandemic domestically.

"Yes, it is painful. Yes, it is difficult and it is causing us some unintended consequences, because I know that Canada has no real intention of hurting Jamaica," Bartlett said.

He estimates Canada's decision to cancel flights to the region will cost his country $350 million US ($449 million Cdn). That estimate is based on what the country would see during a regular peak winter season, when Jamaica welcomes between 175,000 - 200,000 Canadians.

"What we are doing here is to hope and pray that Canada will get through this very quickly so that we can return to the normal course of our trade relations," said Bartlett.

Jamaica's tourism industry lost $508 million US last year because of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Tourism and related industries contribute to 34 per cent of the country's gross domestic product and employ 20 per cent of its workforce.

Workers trying to cope

Harrison is one of the 100,000 Jamaican tourism workers who lost their jobs when travel ground to a halt during the pandemic. He's lucky that his wife is still working, but he knows lots of others who aren't as fortunate.

"I got a lot of calls everyday from friends who are having serious problems. They don't know how they're going to cope, or where the next meal is coming from, so it's tough, tough stuff."

Harrison saw hope in December, when travel to the island started to pick up. From January to November last year, just over 13,000 Canadians visited Jamaica, but in December, that number jumped to 10,802.

Now, with the flight ban from Canada, hotel operators like Jason Henzell who runs Jake's Hotel in Treasure Beach, estimates his occupancy, which stands at around 22 per cent, will only decline in the coming months.

"In my heart, I know it's going to get worse before it gets better. At least we know there's a vaccine now, so we know that things are going to turn," said Henzell.

Trickle down effect

Henzell has tried to keep as many of his 150 employees working as possible during the pandemic. After shutting down for four months last year, he brought back his entire staff on shortened work weeks. A GoFundMe page launched by former guests also raised more than $50,000 US to help the staff.

Festival and concert promoter Scott Dunn said the effect of losing Canadian tourists will be felt across the Island.

"Hoteliers are going to feel it, restaurant owners are going to feel it and the trickle down to all their suppliers of people in agriculture are going to feel that that's what we're seeing in Jamaica right now," said Dunn, managing director of event promotion company Dream Entertainment.

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Dunn, who promotes the Dream Festival, one of the largest festivals on the island, said Jamaica has done a good job of containing the virus; he questions why Canada took a blanket approach to Caribbean travel.

He notes the loss of festivals like his add up to a $60-million US hit to the local economy.

"You could feed a lot of people with $60 million US dollars and right now those people are starving."

Canada's decision to suspend travel couldn't have come at a worse time, Jamaican tourism officials said. The Ministry of Tourism and Resorts had just completed setting up onsite testing and arranged for quarantine sites to comply with new entry protocols announced by the U.S. and Canada. The industry even got Canada to delay implementing the new rules to allow more time to comply, officials said.

The country had already created "resilient corridors" with enhanced safety and cleaning protocols around the most popular tourist destinations, giving visitors more freedom of movement.

That the government and industry went to such lengths to accommodate tourists, including providing mobile testing sites within the resilient corridors, testing that's still not easily available to everyday Jamaicans, has been a point of controversy domestically.

"I applaud the government for this testing, but it's one of the ironies of Jamaica and how important or how much more the government values tourism and tourists than their own people," said Dream Entertainment's Dunn who has been pressing the government to allow domestically produced events like his move forward.

'Better days are ahead'

Tourism Minister Bartlett acknowledges tough decisions had to be made but put a positive spin on the effort, saying it means the infrastructure is in place when travel restrictions are eventually eased.

He welcomes vaccination efforts in North America, which many in Jamaica view as key to rebuilding confidence in the travel industry. But he warns that recovery is still months away, with a turnaround not expected until winter 2021-22 and a full recovery potentially two or three years away.

Hotel operators like Henzell are preparing for yet another rough year, where unexpected developments will continue to challenge their business.

WATCH | Canada's Caribbean travel ban to cost Jamaica $350M US:

Canada’s Caribbean travel ban to cost Jamaica $350M

"This thing has ups and downs and knocks you sideways and,there's just no one to blame. Governments have to take the right decision at that time."

For Noel Harrison, the tour bus driver said it's the faith and resilience of the Jamaican people that will carry them through these dark times.

"We know that better days are ahead. We'll get back on our feet, we are praying to the Lord because he will help us through this."

Corrections

We initially reported that Jamaica's tourism industry lost $76 billion US last year because of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. In fact, the industry lost $508 million US last year. Feb 05, 2021 10:48 AM ET

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Co-host, The Fifth Estate

Steven D'Souza is a co-host with The Fifth Estate. Previously he was CBC's correspondent in New York covering two U.S. Presidential campaigns and travelling around the U.S. covering everything from protests to natural disasters to mass shootings. He won a Canadian Screen Award for coverage of the protests around the death of George Floyd. He's reported internationally from Rome, Israel and Brazil.

With files from Megan McCleister

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Visit Jamaica
Discover the beauty of Jamaica with its fascinating culture, stunning beaches and lush landscapes. Experience our warm Jamaican hospitality, vibrant reggae music, sumptuous cuisine, thrilling adventures and good vibes all around. Plan your perfect Jamaican vacation now and come back to your best self in Jamaica.
Jamaica Tourist Board
The group included Freddie Marsh, Business Development Manager - Western Canada, Playa Resorts and Hotels (far left) and Emma Madsen, Business Development Manager - Western Canada, Jamaica Tourist Board (far right). Above: Jamaica's Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, delivers his presentation on Monday, February 6, 2023, at the ...
Entry Requirements
Canadian Citizens: Valid passport or a government-issued identification with photograph, along with an official birth certificate. Canadian residents must present a Canadian Permanent Resident Card and a passport showing country of citizenship. All visitors are required to travel with a return ticket or onward ticket for entry into Jamaica.
Visit Jamaica, Canada
Visit Jamaica, Canada, Toronto, Ontario. 965,384 likes · 323 talking about this. Welcome to the Jamaica Tourist Board "office" in Canada. www.visitjamaica.com Visit Jamaica, Canada | Toronto ON
Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB)
Overview. The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), founded in 1955, is Jamaica's national tourism agency based in the capital city of Kingston. The JTB is a public company governed by a Board of Directors, appointed by the Minister of Tourism. The Director of Tourism, also appointed by the Minister, is the administrative head of the organization and is ...
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Enter the verification code to continue. The C-5 form is straightforward and won't require more than a few minutes to fill out. The form will ask for your name, dates of travel, flight number, and the address at which you will be staying in Jamaica. Once you complete the form online, you will receive an email confirmation that the application ...
Jamaica Tourist Board
Jamaica Tourist Board - Jamaica Tourist Board. (876)929-9200-19 [email protected]. 64 Knutsford Boulevard, Kingston 5 Jamaica, West Indies. TOURISM INFORMATION PUBLISHING SITE (TIPS)
Jamaica Tourist Board
JAMAICA TOURISM BOARD (JTB), founded in 1955, is Jamaica's national tourism agency based in the capital city of Kingston. The JTB was declared the Caribbean's Leading Tourist Board by the World Travel Awards (WTA) from 2006 to 2014. ... In Canada, Jamaica was voted the Favourite Honeymoon Destination by travel agents. Feel the vibe. Come on ...
Embassies and consulates
Tourist information. Jamaica Tourist Board offices are located throughout the island. They have direct radio links with local police and information on safe public beaches. ... For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada in Jamaica, in Kingston, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the ...
Travel advice and advisories for Jamaica
If you plan on buying property or making other investments in Jamaica, seek legal advice in Canada and in Jamaica. Do so before making commitments. Related disputes could take time and be costly to resolve. Money. The currency of Jamaica is the Jamaican dollar (JMD). Hotels and businesses catering to tourists accept major credit cards.
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The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) brought the spirit of the island to Canadian travel advisors and consumers last week during Canada Trade Week. The cross-country promotional campaign included travel agent engagement events in Calgary, Montréal and Toronto, followed by the first-ever Jamaica Travel Expo consumer event at the Pearson Convention Centre in Toronto. Throughout the week, JTB…more ›
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Jamaica's Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett was in Canada in late September, making it clear that the destination had a goal of attracting half a million Canadian visitors to the island by 2025. Minister Bartlett was accompanied by Jamaica's Director of Tourism, Donovan White, and Fiona Fennell, Public Relations and Communications Manager for the Jamaica…more ›
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The Jamaica Tourist Board says the country welcomed 10,802 visitors from Canada in December 2020, compared to 52,044 in December 2019. (Daniel Slim/AFP via Getty Images)
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John Pringle 1963-1967

E. Stewart Sharpe 1967- 1970

Eric Anthony Abrahams 1970-1975

Adrian Robinson 1975-1978

Desmond Henry 1978-1980

John Gentles 1980-1984

Carrole Guntley-Brady 1984-1990

Robert Stephens 1990 ??? 1992

Fay Pickersgill 1994 – 2003

Paul Pennicook 2003-2006

Basil Smith 2006 – 2008

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