|
Dominican Republic
tourism news |
December 16, 2008: JetBlue Airways has announced plans
to fly non-stop from Santo Domingo to Fort Lauderdale beginning
in May 2009. JetBlue plans to operate its Santo Domingo service
from Fort Lauderdale with 150-seat Airbus A320 aircraft. JetBlue
inaugurated its Santo Domingo-San Juan, Puerto Rico connection
on Dec. 3, 2008. That route had such great demand that on Dec.
18, 2008, an additional flight was added. With this recent flight
announcement, JetBlue intends to commence daily nonstop service
from Fort Lauderdale to Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
JetBlue is the second-largest U.S. airline serving the Caribbean
(based on average daily departures) and this winter will offer
more than 62 daily flights from various East Coast gateways to
the region's most popular destinations, including Puerto Plata,
Santiago and Santo Domingo, DR. For more information, visit www.jetblue.com.
The Dominican Republic has been named the #1 Caribbean destination
by Travel Weekly magazine, one of the travel trade industry's
most influential publications. Established in 1958 and written
for U.S. travel agents, tour operators, corporate travel executives
and travel industry suppliers, Travel Weekly provides its influential
readers with news and features on the world's best hotels, resorts,
airlines, cruise lines, car rentals, destinations and tour packages.
The award was presented to Magaly Toribio, Vice Minister of Tourism
for the DR at Travel Weekly's award gala held at the Waldorf
Astoria Hotel on Dec. 11, 2008. For more information, visit:
www.GoDomincanRepublic.com.
The National Geographic Channel has created a documentary
titled, "Shipwreck, Captain Kidd" on the discovery
and study of the Cara Merchant pirate ship, which has been found
off Catalina Island in the eastern DR. This is the ship that
Captain William  Kidd
commandeered and then abandoned in 1699 as he raced to New York
in an ill-fated attempt to clear his name of piracy charges.
The ship site will be turned into a living public museum slated
to open in December 2009. The documentary tells how researchers
confirmed that the shipwreck was the Cara Merchant, after discovering
teak wood while chiseling under the cannon. Teak was used by
shipbuilders in western India, where the Cara Merchant was built.
For more information, visit: http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/series/expedition-week/3984/Overview.
Indiana University is leading an initiative to turn the Captain
Kidd shipwreck site discovered off Catalina Island in the
eastern DR and three other underwater preserves into no-take,
no-anchor "living museums." The living museums will
protect precious corals and other threatened biology in the surrounding
reef systems under the supervision and support of the DR's National
Office of Underwater Cultural Heritage (ONPCS). The four sites
will be known as the La Romana-Bayahibe Regional Preserve Network.
USAID has contributed US$200,000 to the museum project. "This
ship is very important to Dominican maritime heritage and it
merits protection," said Francis Soto, ONPCS Technical Director.
After discovering teak wood on the suspect Captain Kidd site,
IU archaeological researchers confirmed that this is the Cara
Merchant, the ship Captain William Kidd commandeered and then
abandoned in 1699 as he raced to New York in an ill-fated attempt
to clear his name of piracy charges. The Captain Kidd site, which
will feature a stack of cannons and anchor parts, is the only
pirate ship ever discovered in the Caribbean and one of only
three discovered in the Americas. For more information, visit:
http://www.newswise.com/articles/view/546510/.
The DR was named the "Golf Destination of the Year for
the Caribbean and Latin America" by the International
Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO). The award was presented
to Francisco Javier Garcia, the DR Minister of Tourism, at the
2008 International Golf Travel Market's (IGTM) annual meeting
held Nov. 17-20 in Marbella, Spain and the award affirms that
the DR has arrived on the international scene as an important
new "It" destination for golf.
In addition to this award, the DR was recently recognized by
Travel & Leisure Golf magazine, a top-tier golf publication
with a circulation of more than 650,000, as "The Player's
Paradise," honoring the Faldo Legacy Course at Roco Ki as
one of the top 10 best new golf courses in the world. Golfweek
magazine, a top-tier golf publication with a circulation of more
than 150,000, has ranked Punta Espada Golf Course their number
one course and ranked the Faldo Legacy Course at Roco Ki number
20 in the Top 50 Courses in the Caribbean and Mexico. And finally,
the most recent DR golf honors comes from the Association of
British Travel Agents (ABTA). The group chose the Nick Faldo
course at Roco Ki as the second best in the world, only behind
St. Andrews in Scotland. "Roco Ki is every golf course designer's
dream come true," says Nick Faldo. He explains that the
variety of landscaping along the 18 holes comes to an impressive
finale. For more information on DR golf, visit: www.GoDominicanRepublic.com.
The PuntaCana Resort & Club took the first step to create
the Underwater Park Igneri / Taino that will be comprised
of twelve sculptures of the Punta Cana area when the Spanish
conquistadors arrived in the 15th century. The first two sculptures
were deposited 50 feet in depth. One of them is the image of
a Taina maid in an offering representing Atabeira or "Mother
o the Waters". The second sculpture is a Domene with pictographs
representing the god Huracan (Hurricane). The underwater park
is the newest cultural attraction in the Punta Cana area. Thimo
Pimentel of the Punta Cana Village Art Gallery masterminded the
exhibits. The sculptures are 50 feet deep and are being placed
in the Playa Bonita waters off Punta Cana through December. The
new park celebrates Punta Cana's 40th anniversary as a premier
tourism destination. Jake Kheel, director of the Punta Cana Ecological
Foundation said the new park will also contribute to the enhancement
of marine life to nurture fish in the area. For more information,
visit: www.puntacana.org/.
Barcelò Hotels & Resorts will be reintroducing
the Barcelò Bavaro Palace Hotel after completing a
multimillion-dollar renovation and expansion that includes the
addition of 488 new junior guest suites as well as renovated
deluxe guest rooms and refurbished public spaces. Most of the
rooms and suites provide seaview and balconies with private Jacuzzi,
large flat-screen TVs, wireless Internet connections, king-size
deluxe beds and spa-inspired bathrooms. The resort is a Premium
Barcelò property so guests will be welcomed with the Barcelò
signature Club Premium Service including private check-in, gourmet
appetizers, extra in-room amenities and other personal touches.
For more information visit: www.Barcelo.com.
DR President Leonel Fernandez was present at the symbolic
start of construction of the Playa Nueva Romana project,
a hotel and real estate development midway between San Pedro
de Macoris and La Romana, in the Cumayasa River area. The project
is the latest investment by Grupo Bahia Principe from Spain that
operates hotels in Samana, Maria Trinidad Sanchez, Punta Cana
and La Romana areas. Highlights of the project include a U.S.
investment of at least $1 billion, reflecting the trust that
global investors have in the investment climate in the DR. The
development is on a six million square meter property with plans
to build four luxury hotels and also luxury chalets. The project
also features two kilometers of beach, a marina, an18-hole golf
course, tennis courts, and polo and baseball fields. For more
information, visit: http://www.bahia-principe.com/bp/world/hotels-map.html.
Travel & Leisure magazine has included Casa de Campo resort
in the La Romana province among the Top 25 hotels in the
Caribbean, Bermuda and the Bahamas. Casa de Campo was ranked
number 16 in the top 25. Casa de Campo has enjoyed a consistent
presence in the rankings for the Caribbean over the years thanks
to its golf and sport programs. In addition, the 196-room Four
Seasons Casa de Campo is due to open in time for this winter
season. The opening comes on the heels of a major push towards
luxury hotels in the DR. For more information, visit: www.travelandleisure.com/worldsbest/2008/results.cfm?cat=hotelscabeba
Leading Hotels of the World has granted Tortuga Bay of the
Puntacana Resort & Club its "Commitment to Quality Award
for excellence" in the Caribbean, Mexico, Central and
South America. This is the first time this award has been won
by a DR resort. To win the award, the boutique hotel achieved
the highest score during the most recent Leading Hotels' anonymous
inspections. It is important to note that Tortuga Bay is a Leading
Small Hotel and competed with all hotels in the Leading Hotels
of the World group. Upon receiving the award in Boston during
the group's international convention, Frank Rainieri, president
of the Puntacana Group said, "We are proud of this achievement
that shows that in our country we can offer quality service at
international standards." For more information, visit: http://www.puntacana.com/.
NEW SEASON,
NEW FEATURES, SAME RATES
AT HOLIDAY INN SAN JUAN IN PUERTO RICO |
ISLA VERDE, Puerto Rico
(December 15, 2008):
Recognized by-and-large for raising the bar on its flag, Holiday
Inn San Juan is welcoming the winter season with a host of fresh
offerings for both leisure and business guests, as well as extending
2008 rates, with value added, to the New Year. Leading the cavalry
is newly-appointed Executive Chef Damián Hernández,
a classically-trained young star in Puerto Rico's culinary scene
who blends 'haute cuisine' with his own homegrown spin using
local ingredients such as root vegetables, fresh fruits and herbs.
His signature style features prominently in the hotel's new restaurant,
Eighty20 Bistro, launched in November. Against the backdrop of
a minimalist décor in shades of black, white, and orange,
this contemporary bistro's menu ranges from modern interpretations
of classics, such as the Baby Kobe Burgers, to full-on fusion
dishes, as the Grilled Caribbean Jerk Shrimp with Coconut Risotto
and Pineapple 'Pico de Gallo.'
New food and beverage features have also been introduced in the
hotel's portfolio for groups and meetings. From guided chocolate
tastings with champagne and wine pairings, to interactive chef
tables where guests cook dinner, these culinary events are designed
to wow even the most discerning guests.
In 2009, Holiday Inn San Juan will honor 2008 rates, bolstering
their value by welcoming up to two children though age 16 in
the room at no additional cost (up from 12 years old). The "No
Excuses" package includes accommodations; 15% discount off
food and beverage at the hotel's three signature restaurants:
Eighty20 Bistro, Coladas and J.H. Yees; two 12" freshly-baked
pizzas; $10.00 casino match-play coupon for nearby casino; and
a complimentary welcome cocktail per adult. The package starts
at $79.00 per night/per person, based on double occupancy, plus
government tax and resort fee, with a minimum stay of two nights,
and is valid through the Summer 2009. For more information and
reservations, call 787-253-9000 or visit www.hisanjuan.com.
ANGUILLA: DON'T
LET THE ECONOMY DASH YOUR WEDDING DREAMS!
"WEDDING OFF THE ROCKS" PACKAGE OFFERS COUPLES THEIR
WEDDING CEREMONY AND WEDDING NIGHT COMPLIMENTARY |
ANGUILLA, BRITISH WEST
INDIES, December 14, 2008:
In these challenging economic times, Anguilla has an important
message for couples looking to launch a lifetime of happiness:
Love Does Conquer All!
The spectacular island paradise is opening its arms to brides,
grooms, friends and families with its "Wedding OFF the Rocks"
package. The package allows couples a chance to leave their worries
and cares stateside and elope to Anguilla, where they will start
life together by enjoying their wedding ceremony and wedding
night free at one of the island's Charming Escapes Collection
(CEC) properties. As an extra bonus to ensure the wedding night
will live up to all expectations, the package also comes with
a serving of Goat Water, a signature island broth long linked
with virility.
The elopement packages are available January 5, 2009 through
March 31, 2009. Guests must book a minimum of four nights to
qualify for the "Wedding OFF the Rocks" package, which
also includes discounts for family and friends who come along
to join the party, a civil ceremony, champagne and wedding cake.
"Wedding OFF the Rocks" packages including four night's
accommodations and all amenities noted above vary based on the
property and are based on double occupancy: Paradise Cove is
$1,080 including service charges and taxes; Sirena Resort is
$660 excluding taxes and service charges, Carimar Beach Club
is $1,160 inclusive of all taxes and service charges; and Arawak
Beach Inn starts at $700, excluding taxes and service charges.
The Charming Escapes Collection (www.charmingescapescollection.com
<http://www.charmingescapescollection.com>) is a select
group of 14 charming and intimate hotels, villas and inns offering
travelers a unique and affordable way to experience Anguilla.
While each of the properties is unique in its own way, many boast
a variety of shared attributes, from stunning ocean views to
beautifully landscaped grounds. An array of personalized services
and amenities such as a private chef are available at select
properties, and all properties include a warm and friendly staff
that typifies the spirit of the island's remarkable people.
To learn more about "Wedding OFF the Rocks" Packages
call the Anguilla Tourist Board at 1.877.4ANGUILLA, or to learn
more about Anguilla visit www.anguilla-vacation.com.
Readers of Scuba
Diving magazine say Curaçao is tops in shore diving,
dive destinations and marine life among other categories |
Willemstad, Curaçao,
December 12, 2008: The
readers of Scuba Diving magazine have voted and they have named
Curaçao one of the top dive destinations in the world!
Voting in a variety of categories, readers chose Curaçao
for its Top Shore Diving, as a Top Dive Destination, for Top
Marine Life and Top Value for divers. The wins reflect why the
island of Curaçao continues to be one of the top destinations
in the world for divers.
"Readers of Scuba Diving magazine are some of the most discerning
and knowledgeable in the world when it comes to diving destinations,"
says Brenda Benjamin, Director of Marketing, Curaçao Tourism
Corporation. "These divers know the importance of marine
environments, macro life, underwater photography, as well as
the other important categories in which we have received high
marks. We're proud of being named the best over and over again."
 The January/February
2009 issue of Scuba Diving magazine will feature the Top 100
Reader's Choice awards with readers voting for Curaçao
in these top spots:
Second place, Top Shore Diving
Top Three, Top Beginner Diving
Top Five, Top Dive Destinations, Top Marine Environment
Top Five, Top Macro Life, Top Underwater Photography, Top Value
Top Ten, Top Marine Life, Top Visibility, Top Snorkeling
These diving distinctions were announced on the heels of the
recent news that two species of coral once thought to be extinct
have been found on Curaçao. According to the University
of Miami, after sampling 67 locations around Curaçao,
scientists from the U.S. and Australia have discovered the Isopora
ginsburgi and Isopora Curaçaoensis. Until the discovery,
the coral genus Isopora was only known from the Pliocene to Recent
periods of the Indo-Pacific and provides an important link between
the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.
Researchers said the occurrences of Isopora are the oldest records
of Isopora worldwide, and key to understanding the bio-geographic
separation between reef coral life in the Caribbean and Indo-Pacific
regions.
Stretching across the entire south coast, Curaçao has
over 60 identified dive sites. Curaçao is known for its
stunning coral reefs that draw divers from Europe, the U.S. and
other Caribbean islands. The island's coral reefs have been compared
to beautiful gardens, with delicate corals that are home to brightly
coloured tropical fish and other marine life.
Travelers will have the opportunity to visit Curaçao's
beautiful dive sites themselves during the island's annual Dive
Festival, May 23-30, 2009. Consumers may visit www.curacaodive.com
to learn more.
|
ANGUILLA ANNOUNCES
NEW EXECUTIVE AIR SERVICE TO THE ISLAND |
New York, NY, December
10, 2008: Anguilla's
Ministry of Tourism has announced the launch of a new executive
air service which will operate between San Juan, Puerto Rico
and Anguilla. The new service, scheduled to start on February
14, 2009, will be provided on the Anguilla Air Express, and operated
by Rainbow International Airlines Inc.
Rainbow International Airlines Inc. is one of the premiere charter
companies in the region, and currently operates executive charter
service out of major hubs in the Caribbean including San Juan,
St. Maarten, Antigua, Barbados and St. Kitts. They also serve
a number of five star properties, including Malliouhana Hotel,
Four Seasons, and Raffles, to name a few. They are the airline
of choice for guests seeking the comfort, luxury and convenience
of a private jet service, and this same quality of service will
be offered to visitors traveling on the Anguilla Air Express.
The Anguilla Air Express will operate a Beechcraft 1900D Turbo
Prop Airplane with seating capacity for 19 in leather reclining
cabin chairs on this route. A captain and first officer will
pilot the flight.
Departures out of San Juan are at 1:30PM and at 5:30PM and departures
from Anguilla are at 9:00AM and 3:00PM, and flying time is approximately
46 minutes. Bookings will be made direct using an 800 number
or online, and negotiations are currently underway for guests
to be able to book flights through their hotel.
Ticket prices start at US$399.00 per person, including taxes.
The emphasis of the Anguilla Air Express will be on first class,
personalized service, with an agent meeting all passengers at
the gate and escorting them through security and to the departure
gate in San Juan, and through Immigration and Customs on arrival
in Anguilla. The same level of service will apply on the return
journey, with all passengers greeted at aircraft by an agent,
then escorted through Immigration and Customs in San Juan.
To learn more about Anguilla, call the Anguilla Tourist Board
at 1.877.4ANGUILLA (US) or in Anguilla 1 264.497.2759 or visit
www.anguilla-vacation.com. For more information on Rainbow Airlines
Inc. visit www.rainbowinternationalairlines.com/index.html.
The St. Maarten
Tourism Board & Island 92 FM
Offer Top-Notch Entertainment for High Season |
Philipsburg, St. Maarten,
December 11, 2008: The
St. Maarten Tourism Bureau, in conjunction with on-island radio
station "Island 92," are pleased to announce the St.
Maarten Music Calendar for 2008/2009. This exciting line-up of
seasoned musicians, comedians and actors, all performing at some
of the island's top venues, are sure to please the many guests
and visitors that flock to St. Maarten during the Winter months.
"For long-time fans that have seen the featured performers
time, and time again or for those who are just discovering these
superstars of the rock & comedy world, the winter line-up
provides an excellent opportunity to get up-close and personal
with these living legends," said Regina LaBega, Director
of Tourism for the St. Maarten Tourism Bureau. "Historically,
St. Maarten and great entertainment have gone hand-in-hand. We're
happy to continue to bring top-quality performers to our guests
and extremely excited about this winter's line-up."
Kicking off the season of entertainment on December 12th, is
long-time comedic legend Gallagher. Most noted for wielding his
trademark "Sledge-O-Matic," Gallagher showers his audience
with the pulverized remains of fruit, vegetables, cottage cheese,
and pound cakes, however, his show also incorporates intelligent
social and political commentary and a plethora of oddball props.
Other noted performances this season include:
2008:
· December 12th -Legendary Comedian Gallagher at the Port
De Plaisance
· December 31st - The Little River Band & Brian Howe
of Bad Company at Mary's Boon Beach Resort
2009:
· January 31st -10,000 Maniacs at the Blue Martini Lounge
· February 22nd -Kenny Loggins, Ambrosia, and Terry Sylvester
of the Hollies at the Blue Martini Lounge.
· March 22nd -John Cafferty/Eddie and the Cruisers at
the Blue Martini Lounge
· April 11th -Firefall and John Ford Coley at the Blue
Martini Lounge
For more information on St. Maarten's growing tourism industry,
please visit the websites at www.VacationStMaarten.com
HOLIDAY INN
RESORT MONTEGO BAY PUTS 2009 ON SALE
50% savings available now on resort stays throughout 2009 |
MIAMI, (December 11,
2008): Already one of
the best vacation values in Jamaica, the 524-room all-inclusive
Holiday Inn Resort Montego Bay has put 2009 on sale, offering
50% off published rates. Savings are valid for resort stays between
 January
4 and December 22, 2009 with all-inclusive rates for standard
room accommodations ranging between $189 and $250 per room, per
night based on double occupancy.
Savings are available in standard, superior and deluxe room categories.
A one-night minimum night stay is required and blackout dates
(January 21-24) apply. This offer cannot be combined with any
other promotion or consumer savings and can be withdrawn at any
time.
The 50% Sale is effective immediately and will remain in place
until further notice. Promo code 150 must be provided to receive
savings. Group bookings are ineligible and revisions on current
bookings are not permitted.
For reservations and more information, call 1-888-288-6006 or
visit www.caribbeanhi.com/jamaica.
|
Grenada to American
Airlines: Please reduce your flights frequency |
ST. GEORGE'S, Grenada
(eTN), Dec 10, 2008:
The Grenada Hotel and Tourism Association (GHTA) has issued a
statement supporting the decision by the government of Grenada
in asking American Airlines to reduce its flights frequency to
three flights per week as of February 2009.
The airline resumed a daily non-stop service to the island from
Miami International Airport in November following a ten-year
absence. But, within days of the arrival the chairman of the
island's Airlift Committee, Michael McIntyre, announced the reduction
plea.
"It is the understanding of the GHTA, that the down turn
in the global economy is a major factor in the loss of visitor
arrivals to most tourism destinations, and in fact, several Caribbean
destinations are being affected to a far greater extent than
Grenada, and this trend will continue over the coming months,"
McIntyre said. "This being the case, it was perhaps the
wrong environment in which to begin daily flights between Miami
and Grenada which would be unsustainable, and therefore it is
the opinion of the GHTA that the government of Grenada made a
wise decision in asking American Airlines for a reduction in
the service to three flights per week."
Presently, the government of Grenada makes payments to all international
air carriers servicing the island. In the case of Europe-based
carriers, monies paid by the government of Grenada are used to
assist with the marketing of the flights. The contract negotiated
with American Airlines required the Grenadian government to deposit
US$1.5 million into a Bank of Nova Scotia LC Account to be drawn
on should the payload fall below an agreed monthly figure.
The association said that in order to secure the American Airline
service, the government of Grenada, while asking for contributions
from other interested entities, made the required payment upfront,
and now find itself in the position of having to ask for assistance
in order to maintain the service provided by British Airways
along with that of American Eagle and Air Jamaica, and to secure
the service of Monarch Airlines from the United
|
WINDJAMMER LANDING
NAMED AS ST LUCIA'S LEADING HOTEL |
CASTRIES, ST. LUCIA (DECEMBER
10, 2008) One luxury
Caribbean resort was voted as
St. Lucia's Leading Hotel at the London based World Travel Awards,
dubbed the Oscars of the travel industry. Windjammer Landing
Villa Beach Resort & Spa scooped the coveted award at the
glittering red carpet awards ceremony after impressing a voting
panel of more than 167,000 travel professionals.
 The 65-acre luxury
resort, which celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2009, features
247 suites and villas, all with spectacular Caribbean Sea views.
The resort is a popular with celebrities, bridal couples, and
families alike and offers an excellent selection of restaurants,
the Serenity Spa, kid's club and a nearby golf club.
Anthony Bowen, vice president and managing director of the resort
said, "I'm thrilled that the Windjammer Landing has been
recognized as the best in St Lucia. The award is testament to
the hard work put in by all the staff here who go the extra mile
to offer unrivalled service and a vacation with a difference.
"We aim to provide guests with the utmost in comfort and
opulence - whether it's the view of the Caribbean Sea, which
can be seen from all villas or the host of recreational activities
available here, organized by a team of personal ambassadors.
Windjammer Landing is a hidden gem for the discerning customer
that expects the very best, and we're here to provide it."
The World Travel Awards, in its 15th year, is the most prestigious
and comprehensive awards program for the travel business. They
are designed to acknowledge, reward and celebrate the achievements
to be found in all global travel industry sectors. Graham Cooke,
chairman and founder of the World Travel Awards said, "Windjammer
Landing Villa Beach Resort & Spa is a very deserving winner.
The winning criteria examines every aspect of the resort from
the accommodation and activities on offer to the level of service
and cuisine and found them to be of the highest standard."
Windjammer Landing launched a new Sun Dollars savings of 50 percent
that provides resort credit for spa treatments; room upgrades
(pending space); fine wine, food and beverage, plus adventure
activities for example like Zip Lining through the rainforest,
horseback riding and scuba diving.
For reservations, contact (800) 345-0356; (800) 958-7376 or visit
www.windjammer-landing.com.
|
Solís
The Palmyra Resort & Spa to be the brand's premier Caribbean
resort property |
Rose Hall, Jamaica, December
9, 2009: Designed to
appeal to discerning, well-traveled guests, the Solís
brand was developed by Horst Schulze and his team of hospitality
experts to satisfy the needs of today's sophisticated travelers.
Combining a new sense of luxury with anticipatory, superior customer
service, Solís The Palmyra Resort & Spa will be the
brand's premier Caribbean resort property. Set on 16 oceanfront
acres on the grounds of a former Jamaican plantation within the
elite enclave of historic Rose Hall, Solís, Palmyra offers
299 beautifully appointed guestrooms plus one-, two- three- and
four-bedroom suites, penthouses and private villas that feature
between 645 to 2,600 square feet of living space with large private
terraces. The casually elegant resort boasts Jamaica's first
branded, 30,000 square-foot ESPA spa, an ocean-view fitness center,
nearby championship golf at three of the Caribbean's most prestigious
courses including White Witch, Cinnamon Hill and Half Moon, as
well as five dining venues offering authentic, internationally
inspired dishes with organic options, a gourmet shop and wine
cellar featuring fine wines from around the world. The property
features 13,000 square-feet of indoor meeting space and outdoor
event lawns. Private concierge, butler, maid and chef services
are available at a premium and are included with each private
villa.
Solís The Palmyra Resort & Spa is a member of "The
Leading Hotels of the World"; was recognized as "One
of the Top 10 Most Exciting Home Developments in the World"
by Travel + Leisure magazine (March 2007); and is a recipient
of the Five-star award at the 2007 CNBC International Property
Awards.
Solís The Palmyra will be unlike any other resort in the
area, offering an unmatched array of amenities, services and
experiences available to suit the needs of the world's most discerning
travelers, specifically in the following areas:
ESPA SPA:
Under the direction of veteran Spa Director, Sonsiarea Boyce,
the resort's ESPA Spa promises to be one of the Caribbean's best.
The stand-alone, 30,000 square-feet, two-story spa is the first
in the region and will feature spectacular water gardens, charming
terraces and enchanting courtyards, all overlooking Rose Hall.
ESPA Spa will offer 14 treatment rooms and an array of body and
facial treatments and massages that combine the finest products
from around the world, along with native ingredients derived
from the island.
RESTAURANT/DINING:
Solís The Palmyra will feature 24-hour room service and
five food and beverage outlets offering both fine and casual
dining options that showcase fresh, local flavors and continental
favorites. The resort also offers the option of an in-suite private
chef, a 1,200 square-foot gourmet shop offering organic foods
and delicacies from around the world, and an exquisite wine cellar
featuring international reserves.
WEDDINGS/HONEYMOONS:
Solís The Palmyra Resort & Spa offers couples the
storybook wedding of a lifetime amidst the famous Jamaican mountains
and the glittering Caribbean Sea. In addition to the resort's
signature superlative service, its wedding coordinators are specially
trained to plan and manage every last detail, from bachelorette
and bachelor parties and rehearsal dinners, to the wedding ceremony,
to the celebration reception. Couples can enjoy a honeymoon experience
unlike any other with the resort's top-notch amenities, which
include luxurious accommodations in a suite, penthouse or one
of its eleven, three-story villas with 2,600 square feet of living
area. Each villa comes complete with a personal chef, butler
and housekeeper.
GOLF/RECREATION:
Solís The Palmyra Resort & Spa offers guests privileged
access to three of the Caribbean's most notable golf courses,
the legendary White Witch Golf Course, venerable Cinnamon Hill
Golf Course and renowned Half Moon Golf Club, all just a short
drive from the resort. Guests receive preferential tee times
and special green fee rates of $125 per person during low season
and $159 per person during high season. The green fees include
caddie, cart rental, roundtrip transportation to and from the
golf course, as well as post-golf services upon return to the
resort - valet service for golf shoes and golf clubs and preparation
of golf equipment for the next round is also included. Rates
include taxes and are valid for the guest's golf course of choice.
The resort also features a variety of non-motorized water sports
activities, horseback riding and two pools that overlook the
sea, a swimming cove, and a private white-sand beach
MEETINGS:
Solís The Palmyra Resort & Spa offers 23,000 square-feet
of indoor and outdoor space. Intimate groups may choose to host
an outdoor event at a panoramic gazebo that extends 300 feet
into the bay perched on the ocean's edge with spectacular 360
degree views of the Caribbean Sea; or at a seemingly endless
verdant lawn providing 10,000 square feet of natural beauty.
The resort's indoor facilities feature a 5,500 square-foot ballroom,
which accommodates up to 400 seated guests for dinner or 500
standing guests for cocktail gatherings; Five additional breakout
rooms, ranging in size from 340 square-feet to 1,000 square-feet
each, are also available for smaller gatherings. The resort's
fully-equipped business center includes the latest audio-visual
equipment, support staff, high-speed Internet capabilities and
Wi-Fi access in public areas.
GETTING THERE/RESERVATIONS:
Solís The Palmyra Resort & Spa is a 15 minute drive
from Montego Bay's Sangster International Airport, with daily
nonstop flights from New York, Boston, Newark, Philadelphia,
Atlanta, Baltimore, Orlando, Miami, Houston, Washington, DC,
Memphis, Minneapolis, Cincinnati, Detroit, Dallas, Toronto and
Chicago.
For more information or group reservations, please visit www.solisthepalmyra.com
or call (954) 772-4282. For guest reservations, please call 800-591-0473.
|
BOOK NOW TO
SAVE ON PEAK SEASON TRAVEL TO ST. KITTS & NEVIS |
Basseterre, St. Kitts
(December 8, 2008): For
anyone whose New Year's resolutions include saving money in 2009
without having to sacrifice that hard-earned winter vacation,
St. Kitts & Nevis is the place to go.
The islands are launching a destination wide added value offer,
"Feel the Warmth in St. Kitts & Nevis" which provides
the 5th night free on stays of at least 4 nights at participating
hotels on St. Kitts & Nevis. Guests also receive a complimentary
$75 food and beverage or other resort credit* at participating
hotels, which cuts down on expenses for an even better deal.
In addition, American Airlines is offering more than a 10% discount
off standard published rates when booking flights in conjunction
with a stay at a participating hotel as part of the "Feel
the Warmth in St. Kitts & Nevis" offer.
If the guaranteed hotel and airfare savings aren't enough, there's
more! The "Feel the Warmth in St. Kitts & Nevis"
offer further includes a special card provided to the hotel guest
upon check-in entitling the bearer to additional "Feel the
Warmth in St. Kitts & Nevis" discounts at participating
establishments such as local tour operators, restaurants, car
rental companies and more along with a list of those establishments.
The more times the card is used, the more the overall savings
becomes. In fact, this offer provides savings for just about
anything that a visitor may want to see or do!
To take full advantage of the "Feel the Warmth in St. Kitts
& Nevis" offer in conjunction with discounted air from
AA Vacations, travelers must book by January 6, 2009 for travel
between January 4 and March 31, 2009.* The "Feel the Warmth
in St. Kitts & Nevis" offer can also be booked exclusive
of air anytime between now and February 28, 2009 for travel January
4 through April 19, 2009.
Reservations can be made through AA Vacations, American Express
Vacations, with your local travel professional, via the St. Kitts
website at www.stkittstourism.kn or by booking directly with
a participating hotel.
St. Kitts & Nevis is served non-stop daily from Miami by
American Airlines. It is also served non-stop by American Airlines
from New York's JFK International Airport, by Delta Air Lines
from Atlanta and by US Airways from Charlotte. Additionally,
travelers can connect via San Juan on American Eagle. Regional
air carriers include Windward Island Airways (WinAir) and LIAT
with connections over St. Maarten, Antigua and San Juan, Puerto
Rico.
Located in the northern Leeward Islands of the Caribbean, St.
Kitts offers a diverse tourism product developed from the destination's
natural beauty, cultural heritage and rich history. The island's
stunning variety of tourism attractions include hiking through
the tropical rainforest, riding the scenic railway that connects
the island's sugar plantations, touring Brimstone Hill Fortress
National Park, the only man-made UNESCO World Heritage Site in
the Eastern Caribbean, and the more traditional vacation pastimes
such as watersports, golf, shopping, tennis, gourmet dining,
gaming at one of St. Kitts' two casinos or simply relaxing on
one of the island's sandy beaches. Guests can select from accommodations
ranging from intimate plantation inns to larger hotels or resorts.
For more information about St. Kitts, please contact the St.
Kitts Tourism Authority toll free from the US at 1-800-582-6208
or from Canada 1-888-395-4887, e-mail info@stkittstourism.kn
or visit the website at www.stkittstourism.kn.
BONAIRE SWEEPS
SCUBA DIVING MAGAZINE'S
READERS' CHOICE AWARDS 2008 |
Kralendijk, Bonaire,
(December 5, 2008): Once
again the island of Bonaire has swept top honors while continuing
its reign as one of the world's top dive destinations: For the
seventh consecutive year , Bonaire has been rated the Top Dive
Destination Overall (Caribbean/Atlantic) in Scuba Diving magazine's
Readers' Choice Awards 2008.
Bonaire also received the #1 rating in eight other Caribbean/Atlantic
categories: Top Marine Life, Top Marine Environment, Top Macro
Life, Top Shore Diving Destination, Top Destination for Underwater
Photography, Top Destination for Beginners, Top Value, and Top
Snorkeling.
 "This certainly
demonstrates that Bonaire is the Diver's Paradise. To have received
nine #1 rankings reinforces that Bonaire's continued vigilance
and efforts to protect the island's coral reefs are producing
a superior dive product and in turn an amazing dive experience
for our visitors," said Ronella Croes, Director of the Tourism
Corporation Bonaire (TCB). She continued, "Such constant
diver support clearly indicates the value of conservation and
preservation efforts, such as those afforded by the Bonaire National
Marine Park. With roots going back as far as 1979, the park set
a high benchmark for today's marine environmental standards."
For the Reader's Choice awards, thousands of Scuba Diving subscribers
and web users rated their dive experiences on a scale of one
to five. Results of the 2008 Awards will be featured in the January/February
2009 issue of Scuba Diving magazine.
Located eighty-six miles east of Aruba, the Dutch Caribbean island
of Bonaire offers year-round sunshine, low annual rainfall, pristine
coral formations and the most thriving fish population in the
Caribbean. Ideal for adventurers, explorers and sun-worshippers
alike, Bonaire offers myriad eco-adventure activities including
world renowned scuba diving and snorkeling, windsurfing, kiteboarding,
mountain biking, sea and mangrove kayaking, horseback riding,
nature tours, hiking, bird watching, sailing and deep sea and
bone fishing. And with a selection of accommodations ranging
from full-service oceanfront resorts and condominiums to guesthouses
and small inns, Bonaire has something for every lifestyle and
budget.
Bonaire is the recipient of the prestigious Islands Magazine/Caribbean
Tourism Organization 2008 Sustainable Tourism Award and continues
to be recognized as one of the top destinations worldwide for
its sustainable tourism as reported by National Geographic Traveler
magazine (March 2004) and Islands magazine (December 2007), and
as one of the top diving destinations in the Atlantic/Caribbean
for six years in a row in the Scuba Diving magazine's Readers'
Choice Awards (2003-2008); and was designated by the National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) as having the healthiest
reefs in the Caribbean (January 2008).
For more information on Bonaire contact the Tourism Corporation
Bonaire in the U.S. at 1-800-BONAIRE or visit Bonaire's official
web site at www.tourismbonaire.com.
BONAIRE CONTINUES
TO PRESERVE THE ENVIRONMENT
THROUGH ECO-FRIENDLY PROGRAMS |
Kralendijk, Bonaire,
(December 3, 2008): STINAPA
officially launched their waste reduction campaign earlier this
year at "A Taste of Bonaire", during International
Year of the Reef Week. The waste reduction campaign encourages
visitors to take home their used batteries instead of disposing
of them in Bonaire's landfill, and also encourages visitors to
fill reusable water bottles with tap water instead of purchasing
bottled water and disposing of the empty plastic bottles in Bonaire's
landfill.|
Resulting from the launch of STINAPA's campaign, hotels and venues
in Bonaire have been taking eco-initiatives to encourage their
guests to help keep the island pristine. Below are some of the
programs the stakeholders have implemented to keep an eco-friendly
environment.
Sand Dollar Condominium Resort
Sand Dollar is supporting Selibon, the garbage management company
on the island, in separation of glass, by having special yellow
containers for glass at all of their garbage collecting spots
on the property. The property removed bottled water from their
grocery stocking list, and are advising guests to bring their
own recyclable bottle. The front desk is also collecting batteries
and with the help of the guests and the owner they are sending
the batteries to the US for recycling. For more information visit
www.sanddollarbonaire.com or email: res@sanddollarbonaire.com.
Captain Don's Habitat
Captain Don's Habitat announced they are now providing each guest
with a reusable water bottle made from recycled plastic and that
the resort, along with Rum Runners Restaurant, will no longer
sell bottled water. For more information visit www.habitatbonaire.com
or email: cdh@maduro.com.
Ocean Adventures
For eight years, Ocean Adventures has been encouraging their
guests to use rechargeable batteries for cameras and dive lights.
For the guests that use regular batteries, they collect and store
the batteries in a special box and ship the trash to Germany.
Ocean Adventures also promotes drinking tap water instead of
bottled water to their guests in their welcoming brief. For more
information, visit www.oceanadventures.com.
Bonaire Tours and Vacations
During Bonaire Tour and Vacations briefings to their guests,
they inform their guests that the water on Bonaire is excellent
drinking water and recommend they drink tap water, instead of
bottled water. They also inform guests that an air conditioner
unit cools a room within 10 minutes and there is no need to leave
air conditioning units running all day. For more information,
visit www.bonairetours.com.
Sonrisa Rooms & Apartments
Upon guests checking into Sonrisa Rooms & Apartments, they
are informed to drink water from the tap and use re-usable batteries,
forks/spoons, solar energy for hot water, and to throw their
bath towels on the floor if they want clean ones. For more information,
email info@sonrisabonaire.com.
Wannadive Hut
Wanadive Hut asks Dutch visitors to keep their used batteries
and bring them back to Holland since they provide special boxes
to dispose of batteries. They also collect empty ink cartridges
and put them in special envelopes to be refilled. Bottled water
is also not sold, but ice water is available in a big jug for
people to refill their reusable bottles. For more information,
email info@wannadivehutbonaire.com.
Black Durgon and Divers Paradise
 Black Durgon and
Divers Paradise discourage buying bottle water and inform guests
that the bottled water in Bonaire is the same as tap water. They
also have guests put all fruit rinds and melon seeds in a separate
container that is given to the horses, donkeys, goats and chickens
daily. For more information, email Bonaire@blackdurgon.com or
visit www.blackdurgon.com / www.diversparadisebonaire.com.
Den Laman Condominiums
Den Laman is continuing efforts to seek measures to lessen their
environmental impact while ensuring guest comfort and convenience.
For several years now, they have used only eco-friendly cleaning
products, and by the end of 2008, two new measures will be added
to the list of existing accomplishments, including the installation
of room sensors designed to shut off air-conditioning units when
guest rooms are unoccupied, and the installation of a laundry
facility on property which will enable the use of green laundering
products. The laundry facility will also have coin operated machines
available for guest use once completed. For more information,
email Denlaman@diveres.com or visit www.denlaman.com.
Bonaire Caribbean Real Estate
Bonaire Caribbean Real Estate encourages guests to hand over
their batteries to the front desk so they can put them in a special
container that gets shipped to the USA. For more information,
email muys@sunrentalsbonaire.com or visit www.sunrentalsbonaire.com.
Washington Slagbaai National Park
Washington Slagbaai National Park helps the environment as all
their buildings in the park generate electricity from solar energy,
waste water is collected in hard plastic containers and park
vehicles receive regular service: motor service and tire pressure
check. For more information, visit www.stinapa.org.
STINAPA Headquarters of the Bonaire National Marine Park
Bonaire National Marine Park has solar guard film placed on all
glass windows of the building that reduces 70% of solar rays,
all park vehicles as well as outboard boat motors receive regular
service, daily car pooling to and from work of employees and
all air-conditioning units receive regular service. For more
information, visit www.stinapa.org.
CARIBBEAN PROVIDES
VALUE-ADDED PACKAGES
FOR THE WINTER 2008-09 SEASON |
NEW YORK, December 3,
2008: The Caribbean region
(www.CaribbeanTravel.com) is offering a variety of last-minute
travel deals with value-added escape packages this holiday and
winter season. These market-mindful values are available throughout
2009 for travelers seeking a romantic getaway or a vacation with
the family.
"These select hotel values along with the increasing number
of new direct flights to the region, make this 2009 winter season
the perfect time to enjoy the warm-weather beaches of the Caribbean,"
said Hugh Riley, acting secretary general of the Caribbean Tourism
Organization. "Travelers who are reluctant to forego their
vacation considering the current economic climate, should take
advantage of these deals being offered throughout the holiday
season and beyond."
In the coming months, offers in the Caribbean include:
ANTIGUA: The Verandah Resort & Spa and St. James's Club &
Villas, two eco-friendly, upscale family resorts, grant parents'
vacation wishes with a new holiday "Kids Stay, Play and
Eat Free" program. This program allows up to two children
to stay and dine free per room when sharing the same accommodations
with their parents, with a maximum of two adults and two children
per room. Rates start at $635 based on double occupancy. All
food, beverages, room accommodations, activities, non-motorized
water sports, taxes and gratuities are included and air credit
of $2,000 is available Dec. 23, 2008 Jan. 3, 2009. The
credit is available Dec. 21, 2008 Jan. 6, 2009, when booked
by December 1, 2008. For more information or to book a reservation,
call 800-345-0356 or visit www.eliteislandvacations.com.
BERMUDA: Elbow Beach, Bermuda offers the "Suite Temptations"
promotion now through Mar. 31, 2009. The package includes a complimentary
fourth night free when booking a three-night stay with continental
breakfast for two, VIP services, a welcome amenity and a $50
voucher for an 80-minute spa treatment. Reservations must be
made by Dec. 31, 2008. For more information or to book a reservation,
call 800-223 7434 or visit www.mandarinoriental.com/bermuda.
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC: Hilton Santo Domingo offers savings of up
to 50 percent off on holiday getaways. From Dec. 12, 2008
Jan. 11, 2009, rates start at $110 per night, based on single
or double occupancy. Rates do not include 26 percent tax. For
more information or to book a reservation, visit www.hiltoncaribbean.com.
PUNTACANA Resort & Club is offering the "Winter Caribbean
3-Day Spa Getaway" Dec. 12, 2008 Apr. 12, 2009. The
package includes deluxe accommodations, fine dining each night
at a choice of three of the resort's restaurants, VIP roundtrip
transfers and a lunch at The Grill at the Club House. Rates start
at $240 per night. Guests who book will be treated to a luxurious
treatment at Six Senses Spa, one of the world's premiere spa
destinations. For more information or to book a reservation,
visit www.puntacana.com.
GRENADA: Grenada True Blue Bay Resort & Villas is offering
the "Surf and Turf Adventure Package" Dec. 15, 2008
Dec. 14, 2009. The package includes seven-nights accommodations,
continental breakfast buffet, River Tubing and Sulfur Pond Tours
and a Sea Fun Adventure Cruise. Rates start at $1,025 based on
double occupancy and $607 based on single supplement. For more
information or to book a reservation, visit www.truebluebay.com.
Maca Bana's "Rejuvenate for 2009 Package" is available
from Jan. 1 31, 2009 and includes a seven-night stay in
a one-bedroom villa, airport transfers, daily maid service and
stocked welcome fridge. Rates start at $1,923 per person inclusive
of all taxes and service charge. For more information or to book
a reservation, visit www.macabana.com.
JAMAICA: Sandals Grande Ocho Rios is providing 60 percent off
value rates for guests traveling now through Dec. 26, 2009, starting
at $152 per person per night. Additionally, guests who book seven
nights or more in a Great House Premium room category or higher
by Dec. 22, 2008 and travel by Dec. 26, 2009, will also be rewarded
with a $250 credit to the exclusive Red Lane Spa. For more information
or to book a reservation, call 800-SANDALS or visit www.sandals.com.
NEVIS: Nisbet Plantation Beach Club is offering guests a free
night's stay on Christmas Day, a bottle of champagne and a massage
when booking a seven night getaway. For more information or to
book a reservation, call 800-742-6008 or visit www.nisbetplantation.com.
ST. KITTS: Golden Lemon Inn is offering the "All-Inclusive
Winter Special" from Dec. 16, 2008 Apr. 15, 2009.
The package includes the choice of a spacious room in the romantic
Great Hour or a one-or-two bedroom Beach-side Villa with private
plunge pool, full American breakfast served in the Great Hour
Pool-side Garden or Front Gallery, complimentary lunches, gourmet
dinners nightly, bar well drinks, airport transfers and a half-day
sightseeing tour. Rates start at $650 per couple based on double
occupancy. For more information or to book a reservation, call
869-465-7260 or visit www.goldenlemon.com.
ST. LUCIA: Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort is offering
vacationers 50 percent in "Sun Dollars" savings now
through Apr. 19, 2009. Sun Dollars are valid for exciting activities
and amenities such as spa treatments at the resort's Serenity
Spa; fine wine; a room upgrade; Zip Lining through the Rainforest
and horseback riding. This new increase gives travelers half
back on their vacation dollars in resort credit. Sun Dollars
are not refundable or redeemable for cash, and are credited to
the guests' bill upon check-in and are applied toward resort
purchases. For more information or to book a reservation, call
800-345-0356 or visit www.windjammer-landing.com.
TURKS & CAICOS: Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages
& Spa invites the entire family to take advantage of its
exclusive "Beaches Resorts' Family Reunion Package"
with a discounted rate of up to 55 percent off. The package includes
a private Caribbean cocktail reception, Caribbean-inspired family
reunion activities, a family portrait session courtesy of Beaches
Resorts' Snap Shots studios, a complimentary 5 x 7 family photograph,
private check-in for the entire family, a special farewell cake
and nightly group gourmet dining. For more information or to
book a reservation, visit www.beaches.com.
Seven Stars Resort is offering complimentary nights now through
May 31, 2009. Guests who book a three or more night stay get
one night complimentary. Guests who book at least seven nights
get two nights free. Guests also receive a 20 percent resort
discount on all food and beverage, spa treatments and boutique
purchases. Daily rates start at $485. No blackout periods apply,
including Christmas and New Year's. The program is valid for
all room categories. Offers cannot be combined and are subject
to availability. For more information or to book a reservation,
call 866-570-7777 or visit www.sevenstarsresort.com.
USVI: Bolongo Bay Beach Resort offers the "Holiday Celebrations
Special" featuring a savings of 20 percent off the resort's
European Plan (EP). The package is available on all EP bookings
of five nights from Dec. 15, 2008 Jan. 15, 2009. Nightly
rates start at $96 per person per room, based on double occupancy.
Rates quoted do not include 15 percent tax, service charges and
$5 per day energy surcharge. For more information or to book
a reservation, call 800-524-4746 or visit www.bolongobay.com.
The Westin St. John Resort & Villas is offering value-driven
deals with its "Sunsational Savings" program now through
Dec. 31, 2009. The program offers a fifth night free to guests
who book a four night stay, a sixth night free plus a $150 resort
credit to guests who book a five night stay or a seventh night
free plus a $200 resort credit for guests who book a six night
stay. Nightly rates start at $489. For more information or to
book a reservation, call 877-782-0149 and request rate code SUNFREE
or visit www.westinresortstjohn.com.
Wyndham Sugar Bay Resort & Spa is offering the "Sweet
Caribbean Holiday Getaway" Dec. 24, 2008 Jan. 1, 2009
with rates starting at $470 per night. The package includes buffet
breakfast daily, a gourmet marketplace lunch option, dinner in
one of the resort's three restaurants, à la carte dining,
tropical drinks, nightly themed dinners with live calypso music,
kayaking, windsurfing and other non-motorized water sports. All-inclusive
rates start at $719 per night based on double occupancy. One
child ages 3-12 per adult may stay, eat and play at no additional
charge and rates for children ages 13-17 are $95 per night. For
more information or to book a reservation, call 877-999-3223
or visit www.wyndham.com.
Prestigious
heritage awards given in Grenada
By Linda Straker |
ST. GEORGE'S, Grenada
(eTN), Dec 01, 2008: They
work in some ways did not started off to have the eventually
outcome and on the evening of Thursday, November 27, three establishments
and three individuals who are contributing to protection of Grenada's
heritage was awarded for embracing the belief that preservation
of the island nation's heritage is important in the development
of the island history.
The presentations were among highlight of the Third Patrimonial
Award ceremony of the Willie Redhead Foundation. Given every
two years, the Patrimonial Award recognizes organizations, corporate
citizens and others who in the judgment of the Foundation have
distinguished themselves in the manner in which they have contributed
to the protection, preservation and enhancement of our natural
and cultural heritage.
The awardees were:
1. River Antoine Rum Distillery for the preservation of the only
run distillery in the Eastern Caribbean powered by Water Wheel,
with its ancient aquaduct supplying water from River Antoine-
A Classic example of 18th, Century Technology generating hydropower
for industrial use.
2. Dr. James De Vere Pitt CBE, and Mrs. Jean Pitt for the courageous
restoration of the Museum building complex on Young and Monckton
Streets, St. George's in keeping with the historical traditions
of Grenada.
3. The restoration of the YWCA building on Scott and Herbert
Blaize Streets in St. George's in keeping with the historical
traditions of Grenada.
4. Dr. Valma Jessamy for her unique creation of the Grenville
Vale Tropical Botanic Gardens as an agro business and ecotourism
venture and a centre of excellence for rural environmental development.
5. Mrs. Thelma Phillip MBE for her lifetime contribution to the
preservation and dissemination of the finest traditions in Grenadian
Folk culture.
6. Ms. Sandra Ferguson for her persistent advocacy for the rights
of the citizens of Grenada and her lucid discourse on issues
of public interest.
The feature address at the ceremony, which was attended by members
of the foundation and well-known environmental and sustainable
activists, was delivered by Mr. Eric Branford JP, who is the
president of St. Lucia-based Regional Heritage Association based.
In a passionate plea Branford called for relevant legislations
to be put in place to protect the heritage of the island and
at the same time see the opportunities that exist for economic
development within the island's land and underwater cultural
heritage.
In an address that focused on the significance of regional patrimony
and cultural heritage in national development, Branford said
that the region faces a double challenge of developing human
resources and developing each territory.
The ceremony was used to present a second payment to the four
churches on Church Street that were destroyed by Hurricane Ivan
and are currently engage in the restoration process. It is part
of its ongoing Faith Action Fundraising project, which is the
brainchild of Tony Webster.
Newest tourist
attraction will elevate St Kitts-Nevis
as a preferred destination, says PM |
 BASSETERRE,
St Kitts (CUOPM), November 28, 2008: St. Kitts and Nevis
Prime Minister Dr Denzil Douglas said the newly-opened Mapau
St. Kitts Experience will increase the twin-island Federation
as a preferred tourism destination.
Speaking at the official opening of the EC$11 million full entertainment
facility on Port Zante, Prime Minister Douglas, who is also Minister
of Tourism, said it was important to sharpen the tourism product.
"Herein lies one of the keys to success as a destination.
Our heritage and culture can be used in so many ways, outside
the traditional and obvious options. Our nationals must be creative
and combine that with good business plans and help move the Federation
to new heights in the tourism industry," said Dr Douglas
to the audience which included Governor General, Dr Sir Cuthbert
Sebastian, Governor General's Deputy, Edmund Lawrence; Deputy
Prime Minister Sam Condor and other Ministers of Government;
Speaker of the National Assembly and other members of the lawmaking
body and representatives of the business community.
Pointing out that St. Kitts and Nevis rates well among visitors,
Prime Minister Douglas said it was important that the tourism
product be sharpened in a variety of ways.
"These may range from a better presentation of our heritage
sites, such as Independence Square, to the broader section of
things to do while visiting," said Douglas.
He expressed delight that the core of the concept at the Mapau
St. Kitts Experience utilises local culture something that
we have been blessed with in St. Kitts and Nevis.
The top floor of the complex with its Caribbean themed décor
comprises Sweet Lime Restaurant, Night Club and a Bar and features
a twice daily live show for cruise ship passengers showcasing
the flamboyant culture of the people of St. Kitts. Patrons are
treated to a weekly dinner theatre including a buffet and a 45-minute
show.
The Asian-themed downstairs houses an additional bar; Mapau Casino
with slots and roulette tables as well as gift shop.
HOLIDAY INN
RESORT MONTEGO BAY ROLLS OUT THE RED
CARPET FOR 2009 JAMAICA JAZZ & BLUES FESTIVAL |
MIAMI, (November 28,
2008): The all-inclusive
Holiday Inn Resort Montego Bay is rolling out the red carpet
for guests who choose the property as their home away from home
for the annual Jamaica Jazz & Blues Festival, to be held
January 22-24, 2009 at the historic Aqueduct in Montego Bay.
The resort's traditional warm welcome will be enhanced for Jazz
& Blues guests, each of whom will receive a special welcome
turn down service and fruit platter upon arrival.
"As long-time supporters of the Jazz & Blues Festival,
we're pleased to make our normal welcome a little extra special
for music-lovers from near and far," said Nicola Madden-Greig,
Group Director of Marketing & Sales. "Every year it
seems that Jazz & Blues just keeps getting better. We're
proud to play a part in the success of such a wonderful event,
and look forward to welcoming old, as well as new friends to
Montego Bay in January."
Jamaica's premiere music event, the Jamaica Jazz & Blues
Festival will once again feature three unforgettable nights of
A-list performances by some of the top musical talent in the
world. Among the more notable performers are Grammy Award-winner
Lionel Richie, Atlantic Starr, Lou Gramm, the O'Jays, teenage
Canadian sensation Nikki Yanofsky and London's exciting new artist
Estelle, winner of the "World's Best New R&B Act"
award at the 2008 World Music Awards.
For Holiday Inn Resort Montego Bay reservations, visit www.caribbeanhi.com/jamaica,
or call 1-888-288-6006.
For Jamaica Jazz & Blues information, including the latest
details on the festival lineup, ticket sales, and more, visit
www.jamaicajazzandblues.com.
|
Caribbean tourism
show fall-off |
NEW YORK, United States,
November 27, 2008: Caribbean
countries are beginning to feel the drought in travel brought
on by the economic meltdown in the United States.
The latest figures released by the Caribbean Tourism Organisation
(CTO), as of November 20, show a fall-off for the regional tourism
sector, the backbone for many Caribbean economies, for the January
to October period.
Antigua and Barbuda reported a 10.4 per cent drop in tourist
arrivals for October alone, down from a drop of 8.8 per cent
in September. Arrival rates in the Cayman Islands declined by
2.6 per cent and St Lucia by 3.1 per cent, although both represented
a bounce back from the September numbers. The US Virgin Islands,
Montserrat, the Dominican Republic and the British Virgin Islands
also all saw a drop off in September.
Anguilla experienced an almost 11 per cent reduction between
January and August while Bermuda's drop for the same period was
close to nine per cent. St Vincent and the Grenadines' arrivals
dropped almost 11 per cent in the January to July period, while
Guyana saw a decline by almost 26 per cent.
Also experiencing declines for the January to August period were
the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, Grenada, Montserrat, Martinique, the
BVI, Belize and Barbados.
Financial experts predict a drop off in tourism dollars and remittances
could force many of the Caribbean economies into further crisis.
Private resorts are already cutting payroll by firing employees.
The Bahamas Atlantis Resort cut 800 jobs recently while Cap Cana
fired 500 workers last month after Lehman Brothers declared bankruptcy
and a US$250 million loan fell through. (Caribworldnews)
|
Belize gets
IDB support to expand tourism |
WASHINGTON, United States,
November 27, 2008: The
Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) is giving support to Belize
in developing a master plan for tourism, build a marketing strategy
to attract more visitors and improve infrastructure in several
key tourist areas.
The IDB said yesterday that it would provide a loan as much as
US$13.3 million to help the island expand the industry in an
environmentally and socially responsible manner.
The country's tourism sector, which in recent years has lost
market share to other countries in Central America, accounts
for 22 per cent of the country's Gross Domestic Product and employs
an estimated 25 per cent of the labour force.
The programme will invest in the restoration and improvement
of facilities in four highly-sought tourism destinations in the
country: San Ignacio and surroundings in Cayo District; Ambergris
Caye in Belize District; Placencia peninsula in Stann Creek District;
and Belize City. Together, these four destinations account for
about 64 per cent of tourism earnings in the country.
"Works in these four areas include construction and improvement
of information centres and other facilities for visitors; construction
to restore beaches and reduce erosion; landscaping and restoration
of the urban centre," an IDB release said.
"In addition, the IDB will finance the preparation of a
National Tourism Master Plan for the entire sector, the development
of an updated country branding strategy, and a matching grant
facility for micro and small businesses helping to strengthen
value chains for tourism and offset the cost of complying with
standards including sustainable tourism criteria."
The programme also seeks to support communities in promoting
tourist access to the Maya and Garifuna cultures.
|
JetBlue boosts
capacity on Bermuda route |
ROAD TOWN, Bermuda, November
27, 2008: United States
carrier JetBlue Airways will increase its seat capacity between
Bermuda and New York by 50 per cent in the first quarter of next
year, even if only for a short time, Premier and Minister of
Tourism Dr Ewart Brown has announced.
 The added capacity
will be initiated on February 12 and continue until April, with
the use of a larger Airbus 320 aircraft which carries 150 passengers,
compared to the 100 which are now accommodated on the Embraer
190 aircraft.
"This is good news for us. A move like this shows confidence
in the potential of Bermuda tourism in the near future,"
said Premier Brown. "As Transport Minster, I am especially
pleased because JetBlue is a trend setter in the aviation industry.
When JetBlue makes a decision like this, other carriers sit up
and take notice."
The move is seen as particularly encouraging for the tourism
sector in the island, since the global economic crisis has caused
a fall off in demand for travel, resulting in some carriers cutting
back on flights and seats to some Caribbean destinations.
"JetBlue believes that a New York-Bermuda service remains
a viable opportunity for them and as such, following discussions
back and forth, its decision to increase lift out of JFK (John
F Kennedy International Airport) to the tune of 3,500 additional
seats beginning in February, is a step toward ensuring that there
is an ample supply of affordable capacity in the market during
the winter and early spring," said General Manager of the
island's L.F. Wade International Airport, Aaron Adderley, who
is also the chief negotiator for Bermuda's commercial air routes.
Earlier this year American Airlines eliminated its second daily
flight between Bermuda and JFK in the face of skyrocketing fuel
costs. That resulted in a considerable reduction in capacity
from New York, Bermuda tourism's number one gateway market.
Officials say the increased capacity provided by JetBlue next
year will partially make up for that.
|
One man, two
JTB top posts |
KINGSTON, Jamaica, November
27, 2008: The man who
will take the lead at the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) has been
named and he isn't a new face. The board's Chairman John Lynch
will now also fill the position of Director of Tourism, assuming
responsibility for the JTB's day-to-day operations and the island's
global tourism marketing, from December 1.
 Tourism Minister
Edmund Bartlett made the announcement on Tuesday night, noting
that the current global tourism environment dictated that quick
and decisive action be taken to fill the post which became vacant
after Basil Smith did not renew his contract which expired in
October, and Mr Lynch's "knowledge, experience and strength
in sales make him an ideal candidate to fill the available post".
Mr Bartlett noted that before Board members resigned en masse
last week, they had unanimously recommended that the sitting
Chairman be considered for the top post given his vast global
experience, and to facilitate a smooth transition. He said a
new board should be in place soon.
The Minister said he was looking forward to working with the
new Director of Tourism as part of a renewed thrust to drive
Jamaica's tourism industry to new heights. He said new, creative
thinking and a new strategy are now needed to cope with the ever
increasing challenges facing the industry.
"Mr Lynch is one of the finest marketers in the tourism
business today to be found anywhere in the world. He possesses
the expertise and tireless energy that we need to meet the fierce
challenges facing Jamaica in the global tourism marketplace today,"
Mr Bartlett said.
But the opposition People's National Party has indicated discomfort
with Mr Lynch holding both top positions at the JTB, saying that
it could affect the Board's accountability.
Meantime, Mr Lynch has welcomed his appointment, saying: "I
am eager to give back to Jamaica's tourism industry and I look
forward to working with the new Board as we protect and grow
our market share in this challenging period".
The new Director, a former Sandals Group executive, has worked
for 16 years as executive vice president of Unique Vacations,
with overall responsibility for public relations, sales promotions,
and group sales and is credited with being a major force in the
development of all Sandals Resorts brands worldwide.
Mr Lynch has also had experience in the public sector, serving
the JTB in a variety of capacities in the past. He was a driving
force behind the award-winning 'Come Back to Jamaica' campaign
that significantly increased visitor arrivals during his tenure.
The tourism official has also been involved intimately in the
wider regional industry. He serves as third vice president of
the Caribbean Hotel Association (CHA), chairing its marketing
committee. He also sits on the Board of Directors for the Caribbean
Tourism Development Corporation (CTDC), a merger of the Caribbean
Hotel Association and the Caribbean Tourism Organisation.
|
American Airlines
resumes daily flights to Nevis |
 CHARLESTOWN,
Nevis, November 26, 2008: American Airlines was slated to
resume its daily flights to and from Nevis later on Tuesday.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Nevis Tourism Authority
(NTA) Garcia Thompson-Hendrickson made the announcement
ahead of the airline's first flight, when she spoke with the
Department of Information.
"On November 3, American Eagle's daily flight into Nevis
was cancelled. Today, I am pleased to announce that the service
would resume as of today November 25th, 2008. American Eagle
Flight 5086 will depart San Juan at 12:40 pm arrive in Nevis
at approximately 1:40pm, leaving as the American Flight 5087
for San Juan at 2:30pm," she explained.
The NTA official also used the opportunity to thank everyone
for their patience and understanding during the absence of the
American Airlines flight to and from Nevis.
|
Harrah's sued
over Bahamas resort venture |
NEW YORK, USA (Reuters),
November 26, 2008: Casino
firm Harrah's has been accused by its joint venture partner in
a $2.6 billion Bahamas resort project of fraud in trying to end
their deal to build the resort, according to a court filing.
The dispute is over a deal announced in January 2007 between
resort operator Baha Mar Resorts Ltd and casino company Harrah's
Entertainment to build a resort in the Bahamas. Starwood Hotels
& Resorts Worldwide Inc was to manage four hotels at the
resort.
Construction on the project was due to start in 2007, with an
anticipated opening in early 2011.
However, the project hit the rocks in March 2008, when Caesars
Bahamas, a unit of Harrah's, sent a letter to Baha Mar saying
delays in the project meant there was "considerable doubt"
about whether it could be financed, given the deteriorating debt
markets, according to the suit.
The suit was filed with New York Supreme Court in June, but was
kept under seal until Nov. 21, a representative for Baha Mar
confirmed.
Caesars Bahamas sought a judgment in March from a New York Supreme
Court judge that it validly exercised its right to terminate
the agreement, according to the filing.
Baha Mar alleged that prior to publicly affirming their commitment
to the project, Caesars Bahamas and Harrah's were "secretly
and improperly plotting to delay or pull out of the project and
... avoid contributing their $212 million share of equity."
Baha Mar argues it should be awarded money damages in an amount
to be determined at trial "for the harm they have suffered
as a result of the ... fraudulent misrepresentations."
A spokesman for Harrah's said the company doesn't comment on
pending litigation.
Harrah's was bought by private equity firms Apollo Management
LP and TPG Capital LP for $17.3 billion in January.
Apollo declined comment, and TPG did not immediately return calls
for comment. Kralendijk,
Bonaire, (November 25, 2008): As passenger numbers in airports
increase and security requirements grow, air travel becomes more
stressful and time consuming for passengers. Travelers are seeking
an easier and more efficient passage through airports, and Bonaire
International Airport is upgrading its departure facilities in
order that it can be more efficient and process departure check-ins
in a speedier manner.
The airport is deploying the new Airport Connect CUTE system
(CUTE stands for Common Use Terminal Equipment). This is a common
use system whereby all airlines may use each of the 12 available
check-in counters at Bonaire's Flamingo Airport. With this system
in place, more flexibility is obtained while the processing capacity
of passengers at the check-in counters is increased and made
more efficient. This should lead to a higher level of service
for the departing passenger. The present check-in system works
with so-called dedicated check-in counters, which are only usable
by one particular airline and cannot be used by other carriers,
thus restricting processing capacity. Furthermore, FIDS, Flight
Information Display System, will provide a real-time display
of the status of flights as a service enhancement to departing
customers. In addition to the scheduled arrival or departure
times, information such as "Departed", "Delayed",
"Boarding", etc. can be displayed.
Beginning December 1, 2008, Bonaire International Airport N.V.
will charge each departing passenger a service charge to help
defray the costs of the upgrade. This service charge amounts
to USD $1.69 and will be added to the existing passenger facility
charge (airport tax). This means that departing passengers for
international destinations will pay USD $35.00. Children under
2 years are exempt.
Located eighty-six miles east of Aruba, the Dutch Caribbean island
of Bonaire offers year-round sunshine, low annual rainfall, pristine
coral formations and the most thriving fish population in the
Caribbean. Ideal for adventurers, explorers and sun-worshippers
alike, Bonaire offers myriad eco-adventure activities including
world renowned scuba diving and snorkeling, windsurfing, kiteboarding,
mountain biking, sea and mangrove kayaking, horseback riding,
nature tours, hiking, bird watching, sailing and deep sea and
bone fishing. And with a selection of accommodations ranging
from full-service oceanfront resorts and condominiums to guesthouses
and small inns, Bonaire has something for every lifestyle and
budget.
Bonaire is the recipient of the prestigious Islands Magazine/Caribbean
Tourism Organization 2008 Sustainable Tourism Award and continues
to be recognized as one of the top destinations worldwide for
its sustainable tourism as reported by National Geographic Traveler
magazine (March 2004) and Islands magazine (December 2007), and
as one of the top diving destinations in the Atlantic/Caribbean
for six years in a row in the Scuba Diving magazine's Readers'
Choice Awards (2003-2008); and was designated by the National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) as having the healthiest
reefs in the Caribbean (January 2008).
For more information on Bonaire contact the Tourism Corporation
Bonaire in the U.S. at 1-800-BONAIRE or visit Bonaire's official
web site at www.tourismbonaire.com.
CLIVE EDWARDS
APPOINTED DIRECTOR OF ROOMS
OPERATIONS FOR THE HIGHLY-ANTICIPATED,
ALL-NEW SOLÍS THE PALMYRA
RESORT & SPA, ROSE HALL, JAMAICA |
ROSE HALL, JAMAICA (November
25, 2008): Eleven-year
hotel industry veteran, Clive Edwards, has been appointed to
the position of Director of Rooms Operations for the new Solís
The Palmyra Resort & Spa located in the exclusive enclave
of Rose Hall in Montego Bay, Jamaica, which is scheduled to open
in March 2009. In his new position, Edwards will be responsible
for ensuring that all facets of the resort's operations reflect
the corporate's vision of excellence.
"Clive's extensive background in hotel management makes
him a vital part of our team, especially as we prepare to open
this magnificent property in March," said Lester Scott,
General Manager, Solís The Palmyra Resort & Spa. "Offering
guests everything from private concierge, butler, maid and chef
services; the Caribbean's first ESPA branded spa; a gourmet shop
and wine cellar with fine products from around the world; and
more than 13,000 square feet of meeting space, Clive will be
instrumental in ensuring that we exceed our guests' highest expectations."
Edwards comes to Solís The Palmyra Resort & Spa from
Sandals Royal Caribbean Beach Resort and Off-Shore Island in
Montego Bay, Jamaica, where he was Hotel Manager. He served in
the same capacity at Beaches Sandy Bay Beach Resort in Negril.
Edwards began his career as a Trainee Manager at Sandals Dunn
River Beach Resort in Ocho Rios before moving on to become Executive
Housekeeper at the Sandals Negril Beach Resort and Spa.
Edwards has a Bachelor of Science degree in Management Studies
and a Post-graduate diploma in Hospitality Management from the
University of the West Indies.
|
ST. MAARTEN
ANNOUNCES THE "2009 WINTER SALE" PROMOTION |
Philipsburg, St. Maarten,
November 24, 2008: Looking
to "recession-proof" your winter vacation despite the
economic downturn? Well, St. Maarten, the "Culinary Capitol
of the Caribbean, has the perfect solution to your economic travel
woes.
Located at the northern end of the Lesser Antilles, approximately
150 miles southeast of Puerto Rico, this petite island is offering
visitors a host of discounts and FREE offers with the St. Maarten
Winter Sale Promotion
Guests that take advantage of this offer and book accommodations
by January 31, 2009 at any of the participating resorts and travel
between Dec 20, 2008 - April 30, 2009 will receive 15% off their
nightly room rate, plus $100 in spending credits when they stay
for seven-nights or longer. The associated "spending credits"
can then be used at any of the participating restaurants, shops
and tour operations.
The St. Maarten Winter Sale Promotion is valid at the following
locations:
Joshua Rose Guest House
Coral Beach Club
Oyster Bay Beach Resort
Princess Heights
Sonesta Great Bay Beach Resort
Sonesta Maho Beach Resort
Divi Little Bay Beach Resort
When booking reservations be sure to mention the St. Maarten
Winter Sale promotion to receive the discount.
For more information on St. Maarten's growing tourism industry,
please visit the website at www.vacationstmaarten.com.
|
EU funds plan
to boost Dominica tourism |
ROSEAU, Dominica, November
21, 2008: The Dominica
government has embarked on a programme designed to improve the
competitiveness of the tourism sector, which contributed over
EC$160 million (US$60.8 million) to the economy last year and
created more than 2,500 direct jobs.
The efforts are being undertaken
under the Tourism Sector Development Programme (TSDP), a two-year
programme which is being financed under the European Union's
Special Framework of Assistance to the tune of 2.7 million Euros(US$3.87
million).
"The overall objective of the programme is to improve the
competitiveness of the tourism sector through the development
of rural tourism and linkages with agriculture; increased destination
marketing; and building the capacity of major tourism institutions
like the Ministry of Tourism and the Discover Dominica Authority,"
the EU said in a statement.
In the first year of the programme, through the Rural Tourism
Development component, emphasis will be placed on the construction
of tourism centres. A number of groups in rural communities will
also be assisted with training in the areas of business development
and e-marketing.
For the second year of the programme, beginning next July, consideration
is being given to refinancing or rehabilitating existing hotel
properties; establishing a Hospitality Institute at the Dominica
State College; and promoting a Champion of the Tourism Master
Plan among other things.
The Tourism Sector Development Programme is intended to build
on the results achieved in the Eco-Tourism Development Programme
(ETDP) which ended in June last year.
|
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
NAMED "GOLF DESTINATION OF THE YEAR" |
Dominican Republic, Nov.
18, 2008: The Dominican
Republic (DR) was named the "Golf Destination of the Year
for the Caribbean and Latin America" by the International
Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO). The award was presented
to Francisco Javier Garcia, the DR Minister of Tourism, at the
2008 International Golf Travel Market's (IGTM) annual meeting
held Nov. 17-20 in Marbella, Spain.
"The IAGTO award affirms that the DR has arrived on the
international scene as an important new "It" destination
for golf. The world is taking notice of the DR's world-class
designer golf courses set amid stunning sea sides, beaches and
mountains in an accessible and affordable destination,"
DR Minister of Tourism Francisco Javier Garcia said.
Each year, the IGTM annual conference brings together golf tour
operators and the meetings industry with leading hotels, resorts
and golf courses of the world to conduct business and grow the
industry. This leading trade show highlights and honors top golf
travel suppliers, destinations and services.
"Since the first designer golf course opening in the DR,
which was Teeth of the Dog at the world-popular Casa de Campo
resort, golf has been a booming facet for the country's tourism
industry," said Garcia. "The DR, blessed with breathtaking
countryside and pristine beaches, is home to some of the world's
most dramatic and spectacular golf courses designed by legends
such as Pete Dye, P.B. Dye, Jack Nicklaus, Robert Trent Jones,
Gary Player, Tom Fazio and Nick Faldo."
In honor of the prestigious award, IAGTO will host an official
IAGTO FAM trip that will consist of 50 people, 40 IAGTO members
(golf tour operators) and 10 members of the International Golf
Travel Writers Association to experience the golf offerings of
the DR first hand.
In addition to this award, the DR was recently recognized by
Travel & Leisure Golf magazine, a top-tier golf publication
with a circulation of more than 650,000, as "The Player's
Paradise," honoring the Faldo Legacy Course at Roco Ki as
one of the top 10 best new golf courses in the world. Also, soon
to be released by Golfweek magazine, a top-tier golf publication
with a circulation of more than 150,000, Punta Espada Golf Course
will be ranked number one along with the Faldo Legacy Course
at Roco Ki to be ranked number 20 in the Top 50 Courses in the
Caribbean and Mexico article.
Visitors to the DR needn't worry about packing golf clubs or
even knowing how to golf, for that matter. Each course offers
affordable club rentals and internationally recognized golf pros
for lessons. Regardless of handicap, the courses of the DR promise
a challenging and unique experience.
DR Golf Courses:
East Coast (Punta Cana, Bavaro, La Romana, Bayahibe)
* Dye Fore (Designed by Pete Dye) www.casadecampo.com.do
* Links ( Championship course designed by Pete Dye) www.casadecampo.com.do
* Teeth of the Dog (Championship course designed by Pete Dye)
www.casadecampo.com.do
* Punta Cana Resort & Club's La Cana Golf Course (Championship
course designed by P.B. Dye) www.puntacana.com
* Punta Blanca (Designed by Nick Price) www.punta-blanca.com
* Cocotal Golf and Country Club (Designed by Pepe Gancedo) www.cocotalgolf.com
* Golf de Bavaro (Designed by Juan Manuel Gordillo) www.barcelo.com
* Corales Golf Course (Designed by Tom Fazio) www.puntacana.com
* Las Iguanas Golf Course (Designed by Jack Nicklaus) www.capcana.com
* La Hacienda (Designed by P.B. Dye) www.puntacana.com
* Punta Espada Golf Course (Designed by Jack Nicklaus) www.capcana.com
* Faldo Legacy Course (Designed by Nick Faldo) www.rocoki.com
* Catalonia Cabeza de Toro Golf Club (Designed by Alberto Sola)
www.hoteles-catalonia.com
* White Sands Golf Course (Designed by Pepe Gancedo) www.whitesands.com
* La Estancia Golf Resort (Designed by P.B. Dye) www.legr.com
South Central Coast (Santo Domingo, Boca Chica, Juan Dolio):
* Guavaberry Golf & Country Club (Champion Course Designed
by Gary Player) www.guavaberrygolf.com
* Las Lagunas Country Club (Inspired by Pete Dye) www.laslagunas.com.do
* Los Marlins Golf Course (Designed by international award-winning
architect Charles Ankrom) www.groupmetro.com
* Santo Domingo Country Club (Designed by Robert Trent Jones)
www.santodomingocc.com
* Isabel Villas Country Club (Designed by Ricardo Orellana) Call
(809) 385-0066
North Coast (Puerto Plata):
* Playa Dorada Golf Club (Designed by Robert Trent Jones) www.playadoradagolf.com
* Playa Grande Golf Club (Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr.)
www.playagrande.com
Central Region (Santiago):
* Las Aromas Golf Club (Designed by Pete Dye) Call (809) 836-3064
* Jarabacoa Golf Club (Designed by Luis de Pool) Call (809) 782-9883
Rich in history, the Dominican Republic is a diverse and luxurious
destination offering both Dominican and European flavors to more
than one million U.S. visitors each year. It also features some
of the best golf courses and beaches in the world, the largest
marina in the Caribbean and is a chosen escape for celebrities,
couples and families. For more information, visit the Dominican
Republic Ministry of Tourism's official Web site at: www.GoDominicanRepublic.com
or call 1-888-374-6361.
CURAÇAO'S
NATIONAL CARRIER, INSEL AIR, INAUGURATES
NEW SERVICE BETWEEN MIAMI AND CURAÇAO! |
WILLEMSTAD, CURAÇAO,
Nov. 18, 2008: It's easier
than ever to get to Curaçao as the island's national carrier
Insel Air inaugurates flights between Miami and Curaçao
on Nov. 21, 2008. Until the end of November, Insel Air will service
the route three times per week on Thursday, Friday and Sunday.
In December, the frequency will be increased to four times per
week Monday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday.
Insel Air flights will depart at 2 p.m. from Miami International
Airport's main terminal and arrive in Curaçao at 6 p.m.
Each Insel Air McDonnell Douglas MD 83 (Flight #7I 904) has a
seating capacity up to 152 passengers with a dedicated crew of
4-6 flight attendants and pilots. Fares start as low as $298.00
round trip from Miami to Curacao (excluding taxes and airport
fees). Consumers may call 877.546.7352 or visit: www.fly-inselair.com
to learn more.
Continental Airlines, Delta Airlines, Air Jamaica and American
Airlines also service Curaçao. Continental Airlines will
resume service Dec. 20 and flies once per week to Curaçao
Saturday to Saturday. Delta Airlines also flies once per
week Saturday to Saturday and resumed flights Nov. 15.
Air Jamaica flies four times weekly Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday
and Thursday out of airports in key North American cities: Baltimore/Washington,
New York JFK and Philadelphia International. American Airlines
flies daily.
As an incentive to travelers and to celebrate the start of Insel
Air Service from Miami to Curaçao, the Curaçao
Tourist Board (CTB) is offering U.S residents who book a flight
on Insel Air, a $100 air credit rebate. Travelers must stay a
minimum of 4 nights in paid accommodations in order to receive
the rebate. This incentive will begin Nov. 21 and continue until
Jan 15, 2009. The Airfare Rebate Form and instructions for redemption
are available for download on Fly-InselAir.com
|
Jamaica Tourist
Board members all resign |
Kingston, Jamaica, Nov
18, 2008: The entire
board of the island's tourism promotions agency resigned yesterday,
leaving the country wide-eyed and O-mouthed even as Tourism Minister
Ed Bartlett claimed the action was taken to give him a free hand
in choosing new directors to move Jamaica's tourism forward in
light of the global financial crisis.
Last night, at a hastily called press conference at the tourism
ministry in New Kingston, Bartlett dismissed claims that the
Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) directors resigned because they had
a difficulty with a decision to also make the chairman, John
Lynch, the new director of tourism.
That position became vacant after Basil Smith opted not to renew
his contract.
Bartlett maintained that the members of the less than one-year-old
board decided to resign so that he could reappoint a new team
to meet the ever changing demands of tourism globally.
The decision, he said, was arrived at by the board members, without
his influence, after he updated them on the just concluded
World Travel Market in London and the crisis facing many tourism-dependent
economies like Jamaica.
"I met with the board and outlined the overall situation
and talked about the response we have to make and they offered
to give me a free hand to reconfigure," Bartlett said.
He said members of
the sitting board acknowledged that, given the turbulence facing
tourism worldwide, it cannot be business
as usual and it was evident to them that different strengths
were now needed to move Jamaica's tourism forward.
He said he accepted the resignations and will be reappointing
a new board within the next week.
In October last year when he announced the appointment of the
board, Bartlett said: "I have thought long and hard before
asking each member on this board to offer their service. Today,
I say to the sector, this is the best mix."
Last night, Lynch and Wayne Cummings, who is also president of
the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA), the only two
members of the just resigned board at the news conference, denied
that there were any dissensions within the board or that
they were forced to resign.
"There has been absolutely no disagreement with anyone,
especially the chairman... the issue at hand is that things have
changed," said Cummings.
He said in fairness they must give the minister the leeway to
put in place a team that will support decisions going forward.
Asked whether he was poised to become the next director of tourism,
Lynch said it would not be appropriate to comment on that since
the committee had not yet made a decision on who would be chosen.
In the meantime, Bartlett said there are possibilities that existing
members of the board could be reappointed as "every member
on the board is eligible".
The members of the Board were deputy chairman Earl Jarrett, general
manager of Jamaica National Building Society; Smith, former director
of tourism; Godfrey Dyer, tourism consultant and former president
of the JHTA; Carolyn Hayle, head of hospitality and tourism at
the University of the West Indies; Paul Pennicook, former senior
vice-president of sales and marketing at Air Jamaica; Cummings;
Josef Forstmayr, hotelier and former JHTA president; Lionel Reid,
hotelier and former JHTA president; Zein Issa-Nakash, hotelier;
Ralph Smith; hotelier; and Bert Wright, businessman.
LUXURY CARIBBEAN
RESORT OFFERS INCREDIBLE VACATION VALUE:
SUN DOLLARS "MELT THE RECESSION AWAY" THIS WINTER
WITH 50% SAVINGS IN RESORT CREDIT
AT WINDJAMMER LANDING, ST. LUCIA! |
CASTRIES, ST. LUCIA (NOVEMBER
18, 2008) One luxury,
eco-friendly Caribbean resort has decided to offer 50 percent
in resort credit, Sun Dollars to "Melt the Recession Away"
this winter! At the award-winning signature St. Lucia Windjammer
Landing Villa Beach Resort, effective immediately, all new vacation
bookings, now through April 18, 2009, will receive 50 percent
savings in Sun Dollars an increase from 15 percent. This new
increase gives travelers half back on their vacation dollars
in resort credit.
Sun Dollars are valid for exciting activities and amenities at
this luxury Caribbean resort such as spa treatments at the resort's
Serenity Spa; fine wine; a room upgrade (space available); a
Jacquot Kid's Club day outing off premises or even high adventure
activities like Zip Lining through the Rainforest; horseback
riding on the beach or scuba diving!
Sample Vacation Savings:
|
Accommodations |
Nightly Rate |
Sun Dollars Nightly
Credit |
| Anthurium
Lily Honeymoon Suites |
$350 |
$175 |
| Two-Bedroom
Hibiscus Jacuzzi Suites |
$550 |
$275 |
| Two-Bedroom Villas,
Plunge Pool |
$750 |
$375 |
"Windjammer Landing
Villa Beach Resorts' guests are getting the best holiday present
we have given in the yearswe are giving them 50 percent in Sun
Dollars to enjoy our famous resort and its plentiful offerings,
as well as exciting St. Lucia excursions," said Anthony
Bowen, Windjammer Landing managing director. "Vacationers
seeking a luxurious Caribbean trip where they can sample new
experiences and stretch their money during the recession will
fully appreciate the resorts' increased Sun Dollars to "Melt
the Recession Away" plan this winter."
Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort is known for impeccable
service, stunning and spacious accommodations, gourmet dining
and dramatic sunset location. The resort is set on a crescent-shaped,
white-sand beach with stunningly-designed and appointed suites
and villas spread among 60 exotic and flowering acres on the
verdant Caribbean island of St. Lucia. Windjammer Landing Villa
Beach Resort is the perfect retreat for families, couples and
anyone seeking top-level service and amenities.
Sun Dollars are not refundable or redeemable for cash, and are
credited to the guests' bill upon check-in and are applied toward
resort purchases. For reservations, contact (800) 345-0356; (800)
958-7376 or visit www.windjammer-landing.com.
LUXURY CARIBBEAN
RESORT GROUP ANNOUNCES NEW ADDITION:
NELSON SPRING BEACH VILLAS & SPA, NEVIS |
CHARLESTOWN, NEVIS (NOVEMBER 17, 2008): Elite Island
Resorts, an award-winning and green certified, Caribbean hotel
group, announces the newest member of its luxury collection:
Nelson Spring Beach Villas & Spa, Nevis. The charming Caribbean
resort is located on 3.5 acres of glorious coconut-lined beachfront
property. Nelson Spring features 24 expansive and luxurious one,
two, three and four bedroom villas, which appeal to families,
couples, independent travelers and small groups. The resort is
named after British Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson who watered his
ships from the Nevis spring during the 1700s. This unspoiled
fresh water spring is active today and host to the snowy egret,
blue heron and many other birds.
Nelson Spring's villas are designed to offer dramatic views of
the Caribbean Sea and the neighboring island, St. Kitts, with
their wall-to-wall sliding glass doors and spacious verandahs;
Egyptian marble tiles are found throughout the living space.
Back decks afford guests stunning views of the dormant volcano,
Nevis Peak; flat screen TVs and state-of-the-art kitchens make
guests feel at home.
A world-class spa, Spa Nevis, is located in a two-story building
with five treatment rooms overlooking a private outdoor tranquility
garden. Spa Nevis features pampering massages, facials, body
treatments, as well as relaxing yoga sessions. The resort also
features tennis, air conditioned fitness center, and an infinity
pool with swim up pool bar.
Former member of the Four Seasons Resort Nevis' culinary team,
Wendy Brear, will provide signing privileges to her acclaimed
Deli by Wendy to resort guests. And, Chef Ricky Finch's award-winning
Coconut Grove restaurant -- the only restaurant with a wine cellar
on island and place to find draught beers -- will offer artfully
prepared French fusion cuisine to resort guests. His restaurant
is near the resort too.
"We are proud to announce our newest member of Elite Island
Resorts, Nelson Spring Beach Villas & Spa. Guests will find
Nevis the ideal escape and enjoy warm, caring service under the
direction of general manager Jan Grell-Hull at this very special
Caribbean locale on Nevis," says Steven E. Heydt, Elite
Island Resorts president.
Through December 20, 2008, there is a 5th or
7th night free savings, with nightly double rates starting
at $455. For reservations contact (800) 345-0356 or visit www.eliteislands.com.
|
ST. KITTS BREAKS
GROUND ON NEW TOM FAZIO GOLF COURSE |
Basseterre, St. Kitts
(November 14, 2008):
A groundbreaking ceremony for the 18-hole Tom Fazio designed
championship golf course on St. Kitts' picturesque Southeast
Peninsula demonstrated continued progress in the development
of the island's tourism product.
The ceremonial "first dig" was made by St. Kitts &
Nevis Prime Minister the Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas; Chairman
and CEO of Christophe Harbour's developer, Kiawah Development
Partners, Mr. Charles P. "Buddy" Darby; and acclaimed
golf course architect Mr. Tom Fazio during a groundbreaking event
held on island Wednesday, November 12th. Tom Fazio is regarded
as one of the world's preeminent golf architects and creator
of more than 200 top-ranking golf courses. The course is set
500 feet above sea level on the green hills overlooking the water
and will also feature an elegant golf club.
Speaking at the groundbreaking event, Prime Minister Douglas
praised Mr. Darby for moving the Christophe Harbour development
forward, "Because of the developer's optimism and faith
in the future of St. Kitts & Nevis, and his confidence that
the investment in this project will bring significant returns
to his investors and will, at the same time, help to bring a
better quality of life to the people of St. Kitts & Nevis."
The Prime Minister also expressed confidence that Mr. Fazio would
make this project his finest course yet.
"This important project will become the centerpiece of the
growing upscale portion of our tourism product," said Senator
Ricky Skerritt, Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism,
Sports & Culture. "It's clear that Mr. Fazio, Kiawah
Development Partners and our Government are collectively committed
to the timely completion of Christophe Harbour, which will further
strengthen St Kitts' efforts to become a world class travel destination".
The 250 acre golf course is a major component in the multi-million
dollar Christophe Harbour development, which will also include
a Mandarin Oriental hotel, a mega-yacht marina, and marina village
with upscale shops and restaurants, oceanfront home sites and
villas. The first small component of the development, the impressive
Beach House restaurant at Turtle beach, opened earlier this year
and is already being led by award-winning hospitality professionals.
Located in the northern Leeward Islands of the Caribbean, St.
Kitts offers a diverse tourism product developed from the destination's
natural beauty, cultural heritage and rich history. The island's
stunning variety of tourism attractions include hiking through
the tropical rainforest, riding the scenic railway that connects
the island's sugar plantations, touring Brimstone Hill Fortress
National Park, the only man-made UNESCO World Heritage Site in
the Eastern Caribbean, and the more traditional vacation pastimes
such as water sports, golf, shopping, tennis, gourmet dining,
gaming at one of St. Kitts' two casinos or simply relaxing on
one of the island's sandy beaches. Guests can select from accommodations
ranging from intimate plantation inns to larger hotels or resorts.
For more information about St. Kitts, please contact the St.
Kitts Tourism Authority toll free from the US at 1-800-582-6208
or from Canada 1-888-395-4887, e-mail info@stkittstourism.kn
or visit the website at www.stkittstourism.kn.
|
Bahamas' tourism
in trouble |
NASSAU, Bahamas, November
13, 2008: Bahamas' tourism
industry is taking a battering in the global economic turmoil
and Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham has warned that there could
be job losses in the sector.
In an address to the nation this week, he said the effects of
the crisis in the United States are trickling down into the Bahamas
economy,
"As we are all aware, tourism affects directly or indirectly,
all aspects of economic life in the Bahamas and, to put it bluntly,
we are facing a most difficult tourism season," the Prime
Minister said, explaining that hotel occupancy levels are falling
and advance hotel bookings offer no hope of the situation reversing
in the coming months. "Further, the growth of major investment
inflows into resort and hotel development which we had anticipated
is slowing down and a significant portion may not materialise
for quite a while."
It is also projected that at the end of this year, there will
be a more than six per cent decline in total visitors to the
Bahamas, with stopover visitors declining more than cruise passengers.
"Unemployment is now a most serious concern. Many workers
in the tourism sector face the prospect of layoffs or unemployment
for a considerable period, and at least until the global economy,
especially that of the US, is stabilised and returns to forward
movement," Mr Ingraham pointed out.
In addition to the negative impact on the principal engine of
the Bahamian economy, the financial situation is also creating
new challenges in the island's offshore financial services sector,
since, according to Mr Ingraham, "some major countries are
advancing the erroneous premise that, somehow, the offshore centres
are related to the current crisis".
During his address, the Bahamas Prime Minister outlined government's
plan to deal with the challenges. He said the approach was "developed
in light of the very high degree of uncertainty as to how the
future may unfold, the advice of the IMF, and the potentially
very serious fiscal situation that we may face".
He proposed increasing government spending, through borrowing,
as a way to cushion the impact of the economic crisis.
"It would be inappropriate to cut recurrent government expenditures
at this time in an attempt to mitigate the fiscal impact of revenue
weakness. As suggested by the IMF, government spending can provide
an important stimulus to the domestic economy in the face of
shrinking economic growth," he said.
"That having been said, this is clearly a policy position
that we may need to revisit if revenue performance turns out
to be particularly weak. As always, we must exercise vigilance
over the level of government debt if we are to secure a vibrant
economy and higher living standards over the longer term. In
the meantime, however, and as a direct response to the current
crisis, government borrowings will appreciably increase."
Mr Ingraham said the government was also reviewing its capital
investment programme to accelerate those projects that would
contribute most to dealing with the emerging unemployment problem.
sThe Prime Minister said assistance programmes will also be enhanced
for poor families and the unemployed and there will be aggressive
promotion of tourism.
GET FAR, FAR
AWAY FROM THE ECONOMIC
CRISIS & LUXURIATE IN PARADISE IN RIVIERA NAYARIT |
RIVIERA NAYARIT, Mexico,
November 13, 2008: Tired
of hearing about the bail-out and economic crisis? Get away to
Riviera Nayarit to recharge your batteries with choices to fit
any budget. Select from the following packages and whisk yourself
away to paradise (all packages subject to availability and prices
can change without notice):
Villa Bella's "Breakfast & Dinner on Us" package
Villa Bella, a stylish bed and breakfast inn located in the charming,
picturesque town of La Cruz de Huanacaxtle in Riviera Nayarit,
is offering a "Breakfast & Dinner On Us" package
that is perfect for couples. The package includes a four-night
stay in a suite, airport pick-up service, welcome cocktail, full
breakfast, one complimentary three-course dinner for two at the
inn's Frascati Restaurant. The package is priced at USD$985 with
taxes included, available till
January 31st, 2009. The rate is based on double occupancy and
a 50% deposit is required in order to confirm reservations. For
more information on Villa Bella contact 1-877-273-6244 or visit
www.villabella-lacruz.com
The St. Regis Punta Mita's - Introductory packages
The St. Regis Punta Mita just opened and is offering an enticing
introductory package for visitors who want to be the first to
experience this spectacular resort. The St. Regis's "Taste
of Luxury" package starts at USD$785 per room per night
in a Deluxe Garden Room including full breakfast for two, St.
Regis signature butler service, and access to our exercise room
and spa. This does not include an 18 percent tax and 10 percent
service charge. The package requires a minimum 3-night stay,
the 4th night is free. Available during the period of November
9th to December 19th please call ahead to confirm availability.
This package can be booked through the hotel desk at 877-787-3447,
at www.stregis.com/puntamita or directly at the hotel at +52
329 291 5858.
The Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita "Fifth Night Free"
Offer
Highly exclusive and very luxurious, The Four Seasons Resort
Punta Mita is encouraging guests to stay longer with its "Fifth
Night Free" offer. Simply stay a minimum of four consecutive
nights and receive the fifth night for free. Rates begin as low
as USD$535 for a Casita Garden View room in the winter season
(November - January) while rates for a One Bedroom Oceanview
Suite begin at USD$1,325 for the summer season.
Guests can also upgrade this special offer by staying in one
of the Four Seasons' stunning villas. Rates for a five bedroom
Private Hillside Villa begin at USD$4,540.
The Fifth Night Free offer is valid until December 19, 2008.
For full range of rates and specifics on this offer visit www.fourseasons.com/vacations/puntamita
or call (52) 329-291-6000
Paradise Village Beach Resort & Spa - Packages for Spa
Enthusiasts and Families
The Paradise Village Beach Resort & Spa offers spectacular
location and amenities to suit discerning travelers. The resort
is offering a "3-Night Spa Getaway" package which includes
three nights of luxurious accommodations for two and a USD$100
Spa credit that can be used for a variety of rejuvenating therapies.
Also included is complimentary use of Gym facilities and exercise
classes for yoga and Pilates. Rates for the package begin at
USD$351 in value season and from USD$510 in high season, and
is valid until April 10, 2009.
The resort is also featuring a "4-Night Family Package"
which includes four nights in a luxurious one-bedroom suite,
for four people, 5% discount on food and beverage and one free
round of golf or a $100 Spa credit. Rates for this package begin
at USD$512 in value season or USD$868 in high season valid until
April 10, 2009.
For golf enthusiasts, Paradise Village is also offering a "Golf
& Spa Family Getaway" package which includes five nights'
luxurious accommodations in a Superior Junior Suite with kids
under 12 sharing suite for free and three coupons valid for a
complimentary round of golf or one spa treatment each. Rates
for the package begin at USD$824 in value season and USD$1,089
in high season valid until April 10, 2009.
For reservations visit www.paradisevillage.com or contact 1-(800)-995-5714
ext 111.
The Grand Velas All Suites Resort "Spa" package
Rejuvenate with the elegant, all-inclusive Grand Velas All Suites
& Spa Resort's "Spa" package which includes one
25-minute massage treatment per person per day and one 45-60
minute guided Grand Velas Ritual Treatment which offers guests
access to amenities such as whirlpool, sauna, crystal steam room,
eucalyptus inhalation, pressure shower, Swiss shower, hydro-reflexology,
hot and cold water lagoon, bathrobe and sandals service, aromatherapy
facial towels and much more. The package also includes accommodations
in a luxurious Parlor or Master Suite with ocean view, work out
programs, access to the resort's state-of-the-art fitness facility,
a la carte dining in three gourmet restaurants, buffet and a
la carte dining in the oceanfront restaurant (Azul), 24-hour
suite service and VIP airport pick-up service. Rates for the
package begin at USD$352 per person per night, based on double
occupancy, valid until December 21, 2008. For reservations visit
www.vallarta.grandvelas.com or contact 1-866-358-4415.
|
THE TAMARIJN
ARUBA ALL INCLUSIVE 2009 FAMILY PACKAGE |
ORANJESTAD, ARUBA
(November 12, 2008):
Families who want a great Caribbean vacation that's both easy
on the budget and simple to plan will love the Tamarijn Aruba
All Inclusive 2009 Family Package, which offers outstanding value
and nearly endless options for family fun. With the Family Package,
as many as 2 kids up to age 18 stay, play and eat free ALL INCLUSIVE
year-round when sharing a room with two paying adults.
As part of the package, kids ages 5 12 can participate
in a children's camp with fun-filled activities like Papiamento
lessons, t-shirt painting, face painting, arts and crafts, basketball,
movies, pool games, beach games, bingo, scavenger hunt, snorkel
clinic, tennis clinic, soccer tournament, snacks and more.
For parents who want to keep the kids close but also want a little
privacy, the Tamarijn Aruba's Family Room offers the option to
add on a separate room for as many as 4 children up to age 18
at a special discounted rate.
A stay at the recently renovated Tamarijn Aruba includes, air-conditioned,
oceanfront accommodations in two-story buildings each with a
patio or balcony, color satellite flat screen television, hair
dryer, iron, ironing board, mini-fridge and telephone. Located
just ten minutes from the airport and five minutes from Aruba's
capital city of Oranjestad, this low-rise resort is set on beautiful
Druif Beach with a shopping arcade and the Alhambra Casino nearby.
Readers of Caribbean Travel & Life magazine have regularly
named the Tamarijn Aruba as one of the best all inclusive resorts
in the Caribbean.
Guests staying at the Tamarijn Aruba also have use of all facilities
and services at the Divi Aruba, located next door. All stays
at the Tamarijn Aruba include all meals and snacks at a choice
of ten dining outlets (surcharge applies and reservations required
at Windows on Aruba, located at The Links at Divi Aruba adjacent
to the resort), unlimited beverages at seven bars and the use
of three freshwater pools. In addition, all guests may enjoy
the well-equipped Divi Winds Sports Center, which features an
air-conditioned, oceanfront fitness center with the latest strength
and cardiovascular equipment as well as a 30-foot outdoor rock
climbing wall on the beach. The Divi Winds Sports Center also
boasts non-motorized water sports including snorkeling equipment,
snorkel clinic and tour, sunfish sailing, floats, kayaks, beginner's
windsurfing equipment and "Learn to Windsurf" beach
clinic. Tennis on courts lighted for night play, beach volleyball,
beach olympics, bikes and bike tour, tennis clinic, casino table
games, arts & crafts, dance lessons, beach soccer, billiards,
board games, darts, basketball, Papiamento lessons, entertainment
nightly, theme nights, ticket to Bon Bini Festival (seasonal),
Funbook! with coupons for the adjacent Alhambra Casino, tax and
service charges are further all part of what guests receive at
Tamarijn Aruba.
Just steps away, The Links at Divi Aruba is an optional amenity
that offers discounted green fees and premium tee times to guests
of the resort. The 9-hole course features an on-site golf school
and clubhouse with pro shop. Another optional amenity, the Indulgence
by the Sea spa, located at Divi Aruba, features pampering treatments
from massages to facials to body scrubs. In addition, wireless
internet services are available in all guest rooms and public
areas (additional fees required for optional amenities).
For those who want to see the Island, the concierge desk can
make arrangements for various off-property trips from downtown
shopping excursions or restaurant reservations to catamaran cruises
and more.
Golf, Wedding, Honeymoon and Dive Packages are also available.
Rates, features and facilities are subject to change without
notice. Certain restrictions may apply and no refunds will be
given for unused features.
For reservations and more information contact your travel professional
or 1-800-554-2008, 207-594-7888 or visit the resort's website
www.tamarijnaruba.com.
|
DIVI & TAMARIJN
ARUBA ALL INCLUSIVES' 2009 HONEYMOON PACKAGES |
ORANJESTAD, ARUBA
(November 12, 2008):
Couples who just tied the knot can start their new life together
off right by taking advantage of the Divi & Tamarijn Aruba
All Inclusives' 2009 Honeymoon Packages. Making their once-in-a-lifetime
honeymoon trip easier on the budget and simpler to plan, everything
from accommodations and non-motorized water sports to meals at
a choice of ten dining outlets is included with these packages,
honeymooners can spend their days and nights together worry-free!
The Divi & Tamarijn Aruba 2009 all inclusive Honeymoon Packages
offer:
-Accommodations for two with a spacious patio or balcony (Guaranteed
preferred Deluxe Oceanfront room with king-sized bed at Tamarijn
Aruba or Oceanview or Beachside room with king- or queen-sized
bed at Divi Aruba)
-Candlelight Dinner for two at the oceanfront Sunset Beach Bistro
including a glass of wine for each person, taxes, service charges
and round-trip transportation from the Divi & Tamarijn Aruba
-Bottle of champagne
-Free night first anniversary certificate
-Remembrance gift
In addition to specific package features, honeymooners staying
at either the Divi Aruba or the adjacent, recently updated, oceanfront
Tamarijn Aruba have use of all facilities and services of both
properties. The packages are value-added with prices based on
seasonal nightly rates and are available year-round.
 Further, all guest
stays at the Divi & Tamarijn Aruba include all meals and
snacks at a choice of ten dining outlets (surcharge applies and
reservations required at Windows on Aruba, located at The Links
at Divi Aruba adjacent to the resort), unlimited beverages at
seven bars and the use of three freshwater pools. In addition,
all guests may enjoy the well-equipped Divi Winds Sports Center,
which features an air-conditioned oceanfront fitness center with
the latest strength and cardiovascular equipment as well as a
30-foot outdoor rock climbing wall on the beach. The Divi Winds
Sports Center also boasts non-motorized water sports including
snorkeling equipment, snorkel clinic and tour, sail boats, floats,
kayaks, beginner's windsurfing equipment and "Learn to Windsurf"
beach clinic. Tennis on courts lighted for night play, beach
volleyball, beach olympics, bikes and bike tour, casino games
master class, arts & crafts, dance lessons, beach soccer,
billiards, board games, darts, basketball, Papiamento lessons,
entertainment nightly, theme nights, tickets to Bon Bini Festival
(seasonal), Funbook! with coupons for the adjacent Alhambra Casino,
tax and service charges are further all part of what guests receive
at Divi & Tamarijn Aruba.
Just steps away, The Links at Divi Aruba is an optional amenity
that offers discounted green fees and premium tee times to guests
of the resorts. The 9-hole course features an on-site golf school
and clubhouse with pro shop. Another optional amenity, the Indulgence
by the Sea spa, located at Divi Aruba, features pampering treatments
from massages to facials to body scrubs. In addition, wireless
Internet services are available in all guest rooms and public
areas (additional fees required for optional amenities.)
For those who want to see the Island, the concierge desks at
both properties can make arrangements for various off-property
trips from downtown shopping excursions or restaurant reservations
to catamaran cruises and more.
Family, Golf, Wedding and Dive Packages are also available. Rates,
features and facilities are subject to change without notice.
Certain restrictions may apply and no refunds will be given for
unused features. Honeymoon stays must commence within 30 days
of the wedding and a copy of marriage certificate or wedding
invitation may be required at hotel check-in. Advanced sign-up
for Sunset Bistro dinner and transfers required at the resort.
For reservations and more information, contact your travel professional,
call 1-800-554-2008, 207-594-7888 or visit the resorts' websites
at www.diviaruba.com or www.tamarijnaruba.com.
|
More options
for Canadians as Barbados welcomes WestJet |
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados,
November 4, 2008: WestJet
Airlines will mark its inaugural visit to Barbados on November
3, 2008.
The service, which is scheduled to fly between Toronto and Barbados,
will make four stops to the island on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays
and Saturdays.
Senior Business Development Manager of the Barbados Tourism Authority's
(BTA) Toronto office, Cheryl Carter, welcomes the occasion of
this new service, emphasizing that WestJet will now broaden all
options for prospective Canadian travelers to the island.
"Barbados is pleased to welcome the new Westjet air service
from Canada this year. Canadians now have a choice of scheduled
flights with daily Air Canada services and Westjet, which will
operate four times a week from November."
Carter also reiterates that the service will aid in maintaining
continued growth in the Western Canadian market.
"We expect that this will augur well for Barbados as a destination
and will significantly enhance Barbados' presence in the
market, especially in Western Canada, where we have seen double
digit growth over the past three years!" she explained.
In anticipation of the airline's introduction to the island's
scheduled air services, an informational session was held on
September 2, 2008, where local travel agents were briefed on
the new service and how they can sell the service from the
Barbados end.
Manager Product Integration, Andrea Franklin, BTA, reported that
feedback from local travel agents was very positive, as they
were extremely excited about WestJet's presence in the local
airline landscape.
Financial crisis
has not taken its toll on Caribbean and Mexican destinations
just yet
By Hazel Heyer |
eTN, Nov 03, 2008: A recent study,
Future Timeshare Buyers 2008 Market profile prepared by Ypartnership
for Interval International, revealed that though Europe continues
to be the preferred international destination among 72 percent
of leisure travelers interested in purchasing vacation time,
nearly one quarter or 22 percent are interested in visiting the
Caribbean and about 15 percent are interested in Mexico. Overall,
outside the US, Mexico, the Caribbean and Canada are the fast-growing
vacation ownership venues in the world.
Not oblivious of the US financial disaster, these destinations
are still enjoying their fair share of timeshare guests.
Richard Corso, CEO, The Royal Resorts said that sales numbers
have not gone south at the Mexican resorts. But certainly the
island of St. Martin has seen sales decline almost 20 percent
as well as slower pace of development. "Twenty percent is
not that serious, but we're more worried about how one third
in receivables of the portfolio is doing. Ahead we may see an
increase in delinquencies in timeshare. Delinquency upticked
slightly but to a level of no real concern to us. Timeshare is
extremely versatile. People are flipping back into whole ownership
at the time-being as timeshare sales continue to decline,"
he said.
A number of resort developers armed up for "ugly 2009."
Jim Walters, vice president development, Glacier Lake Development
Corp., said that with what's been happening in the market, a
lot of developers have been taking measures to react to what's
coming. Walters said, "We also look at how markets performed
in 2006 and 2007 which were phenomenal years with great sales,
plenty of cash around and people were buying. Today, their sales
may be flat for 2008 and if it could be flat in 2009 too, they
may just be fine with that!"
Industry executives are now looking for cost-cutting strategies.
In general however, Walters said he looks forward to a better
2009 with resorts in Mexico, Central and South America. "Over
there, they have access to money. They can build and finance
themselves though this credit issue is alien to them. They are
however working harder despite seeing no impact at all to their
market. They have taken the necessary measures to prepare for
the future."
Few whole ownership programs have issues. "With the $1 to
$2 mullion products we have, the US customers are no longer there.
But having the international diversity has provided mobility
and business in Europe, Canada and Costa Rica rather than if
we were just a single location product relying heavily on the
US market," added Walters.
"We do best in tough times. Most of our deals are being
made this year more than last year. Cash flow-wise, we're seeing
budgets in smaller projects. Two years ago, we had a hard time
selling the small stuff. Now we're going back to the front,"
further said Glacier's head.
According to Corso, even if revenue is falling 15-20 percent
today, the industry is still so much ahead of compared to just
a few years ago.
Walters said his biggest fear is if the credit crunch will later
affect the islands. "Because the islands have airlines that
are bankrupt, run high costs, and airline tickets are very expensive,
islands could be at risk. But if they don't get the US consumer,
they will be in trouble. So we got to make sure the US consumer
can get there," he said. Airlifts should remain intact in
the Caribbean for business to go on.
According to Peter Yesawich, CEO, Ypartnership, 2008 average
travels to the Caribbean has gone down to 12 percent. "Interest
waned due to higher price values and fewer flights. Last month,
American airlines flights to the Caribbean went down form 33
to 20 today," he said.
Access to Cancun versus St. Martin raises fear. "It's much
more difficult and more expensive to get to St. Martin at this
time of the year from the US. For Cancun, there's a very slight
decrease with the number of tourists, not just due to timeshare
and some 'emotional' decisions. Some are looking back to their
financial positions and being cautious. God bless Americans who
want to spend money and that vacations are part of their God-given
rights. No business has nothing but positive growth forever.
Efficiencies have gone down but we will see a rebound, whether
in 2, 6 or 12 months"
Our outside line has been less productive which has been good
for us too because it is where the efficiencies as supposedly
impacted, Walters said. "Compared to our boom years, our
in-house business is highly satisfactory. It doesn't portend
if the economy keeps falling," said Walters who added their
. Belize resorts today have limited appeal - as people have to
get there. Belize is a challenge in the villa-resort type design
concept . Employee issue is something that we also consider when
expanding abroad...We start looking at fractionals with 13-weeks
of usage; the good thing about fractionals is we still treat
it as real estate not vacation package. Hopefully, it stays recession
proof," he said.
Industry leaders disclose that Mexico has access to local banks
and US lender involvement. Central America gets sustained by
their local banks. The Caribbean has a real mix of large banks
and some developers are actually banks themselves. Puerto Rico
can get plenty of local financing. There will be capital source
to get by despite the US crisis. However, the US consumer is
going to be in absentia for a longer time to come.
|
AMERICAN AIRLINES'
DAILY SERVICE TO ST. KITTS BEGINS |
Basseterre, St. Kitts
(November 4, 2008): Marking
a significant step forward for St. Kitts' growing tourism industry,
the island has just welcomed the first of American Airlines'
daily flights to St. Kitts from Miami yesterday, November 3,
2008. News of this service increase was announced earlier this
year on the heels of various domestic and international route
cuts made by US-based airlines
These newly launched daily flights
continue a series of recent service increases to St. Kitts by
American Airlines. American Airlines first started a Miami service
to St. Kitts in December 2004 with three flights weekly, which
grew to five flights in 2006. In addition, American Airlines
commenced a twice weekly service from JFK to St. Kitts in November
2007, just one year ago
"American Airlines has shown continued confidence in our
tourism industry," said Senator Ricky Skerritt, Minister
of State in the Ministry of Tourism, Sports & Culture. "The
commencement of this Miami daily service from American Airlines
heralds a new era in St. Kitts' tourism, one that is witnessing
increases in demand that are directly related to the growth of
the island's authentic, nature-based tourism product and which
have led up to our need to provide a daily jet service from the
US, our top visitor market.
In recognition of American Airlines' longstanding support of
St. Kitts, the island has recently honored it with the "Tourism
Partner of the Year" Award, the top recognition given to
any tourism partner. The Award was presented at St. Kitts' 8th
Annual Tourism Awards Banquet on November 1, 2008, which marked
the end of the island's Tourism Awareness Month of activities
American Airlines has ideally timed these daily non-stop flights
to accommodate connecting US and Canadian travelers as well as
those flying non-stop to St. Kitts. American Airlines flight
#2299 departs MIA daily at 10:50 a.m. arriving into St. Kitts
at 2:50 p.m. The return flight #2280 departs St. Kitts at 3:45
p.m. arriving into MIA at 6:05 p.m. American Airlines uses a
148-seat Boeing 737-800 aircraft with 16 first class seats and
132 economy seats for these non-stop flights
Located in the northern Leeward Islands of the Caribbean, St.
Kitts offers a diverse tourism product developed from the destination's
natural beauty, cultural heritage and rich history. The island's
stunning variety of tourism attractions include hiking through
the tropical rainforest, riding the scenic railway that connects
the island's sugar plantations, touring Brimstone Hill Fortress
National Park, the only man-made UNESCO World Heritage Site in
the Eastern Caribbean, and the more traditional vacation pastimes
such as watersports, golf, shopping, tennis, gourmet dining,
gaming at one of St. Kitts' two casinos or simply relaxing on
one of the island's sandy beaches. Guests can select from accommodations
ranging from intimate plantation inns to larger hotels or resorts
For more information about St. Kitts, please contact the St.
Kitts Tourism Authority toll free from the US at 1-800-582-6208
or from Canada 1-888-395-4887, e-mail info@stkittstourism.kn
or visit the website at www.stkittstourism.kn.
|
Palace Resorts
Goes "Green" |
Miami, FL, November 4,
2008: Today, with the
focus on the environment, sustainable resources and the drive
to reduce our carbon footprint, the task of "saving the
planet" has now become everyone's responsibility. With 11
high-end all-inclusive properties located throughout Cancún,
the Riviera Maya, Cozumel, Riviera Nayarit, and Punta Cana, Palace
Resorts, the company that set the standard in five-star, all-inclusive
resort accommodations, is now making the move to also be environmentally
friendly, as well as give back to the community. Below are some
steps the company is taking to make their resorts more environmentally
friendly
Palace Resorts Environmental Committee
In an effort to preserve natural resources and provide more green
areas throughout all of its resorts, Palace Resorts has created
an environmental committee, "Comité Ambiental Palace
Resorts", whose mission is to prevent and control pollution
and degradation of the environment through the efficient use
of the resources with the objective of sustainable development
To that end, the committee will work with all the resorts to
educate personnel on caring for the environment, reduce the amount
of waste and trash generated, promote the purchase of environmentally
friendly products, implement a recycling and trash sorting program
to reduce waste, regulate emissions from all the resorts to reduce
their carbon output, administer a series of "green areas"
at all the properties, implement the use of "green signs",
which include the original names and descriptions of the flora
currently planted, and much, much more.
Based on the success of this program, Xpu-Ha Palace has already
been awarded Certificado de Calidad Ambiental Turística,
(certificate for environmental quality in tourism) from Mexico's
protection environmental agency - PROFEPA (Procuraduría
Federal de Protección al Ambiente) for complying with
the environmental regulations. It is the goal of Palace Resorts
to have nine resorts receive this certification by the end of
this year
Paperless Technology
In an effort to reduce the amount of paper used, Palace Resorts
has invested in state-of-the-art electronic technology and posted
electronic schedule boards throughout all of the resorts, thus
eliminating the use of printed schedules. Additionally, Palace
Resorts offers online reservation and confirmation of all accommodations,
as well as an online resource where guests can book tours, rental
cars, tee times and spa treatments
Saving Energy
Palace Resorts has made it a priority to conserve resources,
not only in the public spaces, but also in all the rooms at many
of its resorts. Over the last two years, the company has been
working to install state-of the art "light switches"
that are triggered by inserting your room key. When the room
key is inserted in the provided slot, the lights and the air
conditioning in all the rooms can be controlled individually.
However, when the room key is removed, everything turns off,
thus reducing the expenditure of electricity
Reuse & Renew
With 11 all-inclusive resorts and more than 6,000 rooms brand-wide,
Palace Resorts has implemented a linen reuse program that reduces
its carbon footprint and the use of natural resources
Giving Back
Over the last two years, Palace Resorts has implemented a system
where all the unused food at its restaurants is donated to local
food banks and shelters throughout the regions where they operate.
Through this program, Palace has not only reduced waste but has
helped feed the less fortunate in its communities
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
Palace Resorts has made the commitment to reduce its use
of bottled water throughout all of their resorts. To this end,
the company has installed a state-of-the-art water filtration
system at each of its properties that will not only reduce its
dependency on bottled water but also help the resort irrigate
the grounds. However, in the instances when bottled water is
preferred, Palace Resorts provides 1 12 liter bottles as opposed
to 12 liter bottles in effort to provide additional servings
and cut down on the accumulated waste from the single serve containers.
Furthermore, with the consent of event organizer, Palace Resorts
is working to provide pitchers of water versus water bottles
during all event coffee breaks. Lastly, to further reduce waste,
Palace Resorts is working to implement a comprehensive recycling
program throughout all of the resorts
Saving Indigenous Wildlife
Palace Resorts is pleased to support an integral protection sea
turtle program that is working to establish protection efforts
along the 7 miles of beach on the coast of Quintana Roo state.
In three camp sites located at Moon Palace Golf and Spa Resort,
Cancun Palace, Beach Palace and Sun Palace, that have been specifically
authorized by the SEMARNAT (Mexico's Environmental and Natural
Resources Agency), Palace Resorts has protected 117,676 sea turtle
eggs since the programs conception in 2005. The purpose of the
program is to not only preserve and protect the eggs that sea
turtles come to shore to lay, but to also provide environmental
education, training, investigation and continuously evaluation
of this majestic creature and work together so that they may
carry on and thrive for years to come
Palace Resorts' "Green Thumb"
In effort to enrich and establish "green areas" that
are representative of the natural vegetation throughout all of
the Palace properties, Palace Resorts has established several
environmentally friendly nurseries at the Centro de Distribución
Palace (Distribution Center) with approximately 200,000 indigenous
plants that represent a cross section of species collected from
the jungle, wetlands, mangroves and coastal dunes. This distribution
center offers several services, including acting as a temporary
home to local plants that are relocated during construction or
renovation of properties, a cultivation center used to nurture
replacement plants to those that become damaged or unhealthy
and to offer a base of operation where the Palace team of gardeners
can work to repair and foster the future health of natural vegetation,
coastal thickets, mangroves and dunes that serving as natural
barriers in event of storms and hurricanes.
For more information on Palace Resorts and their green initiatives,
please call (800) 635-1836 or visit www.palaceresorts.com.
Trinidad and
Tobago Host the 15th Annual Florida-Caribbean
Cruise Association Cruise Conference & Trade Show. |
Pembroke Pines, FL (November
4, 2008): The 15th Annual
FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show proved to be a huge success.
Trinidad and Tobago hosted the FCCA Delegates and Cruise Line
Executives the week of October 27-31, 2008 at the beautiful Hyatt
Regency Hotel, Trinidad. The Hyatt Regency is a full conference
facility and hosted all business functions, meetings and the
Trade Show. It provided a true feeling of home for the delegation
of Government Leaders, Port Officials, Tour Operators, Tourism
Agencies and Suppliers from 42 destinations along with close
to 100 Cruise Executives from the FCCA Member Lines.
Mr. Richard Sasso, President & CEO of MSC Cruises (USA) Inc.
opened the Trade Show on Tuesday, October 28, with Mr. Micky
Arison, CEO & Chairman of Carnival Corporation and FCCA Chairman
along with Hon. Joseph Ross officially opening the Conference
on Tuesday evening.
Micky Arison, Chairman & CEO, Carnival Corporation and FCCA
Chairman stated "this is the time my colleagues and I set
aside time to spend working with our partners in the Caribbean
and Latin America to get to know each other and to better the
industry.
Following our most successful conference yet in Trinidad we are
looking forward to next year's conference in Guatemala."
A number of impressive topics and featured speakers held the
delegates' attention during the workshop sessions with record
number attendance. The workshops touched on care awareness, tourism
economic forecasts, guest perceptions and expectations (along
with how to fulfill them), handling a challenging economy, and
much more. Speakers included Amilcar Cascais, Vice President,
Tour Operations, Carnival Cruise Lines, Bill Fay, Insurance Specialist,
Royal Caribbean Cruises, Hon. Charles Clifford, Minister of Tourism,
Cayman Islands Government and Magaly Toribio, Vice Minister,
Ministry of Tourism Dominican Republic.
Delegates had the opportunity to meet with Cruise Executives
in private pre-arranged One-on-One Meeting sessions. Cruise Executives
from many Member Lines specializing in shore excursions, purchasing,
marketing, deployment and operations participated in the One-on-One
meetings.
The SeaMiles-FCCA Golf Tournament was a huge success with 16
teams including cruise executives as foursome hosts. All the
funds raised benefit the FCCA Foundation.
Trinidad and Tobago outdid themselves with elaborate evening
functions. Tuesday's Opening Party was held at Hyatt Regency's
elegant outdoor terrace. Attendees shared in the celebration
of the Hindu holiday known as Dawali, the Festival of Lights.
The terrace on the water was beautifully decorated with tea lights
while Trinidadian women wore their traditional dress known as
the Saree. The Trinidad Extravaganza on Wednesday evening took
place at Pier One, and the venue was transformed into a true
Trinidadian Carnival. Elaborate costumes and festive music set
the tone for a party to remember. Thursday evening's closing
party took place in the Ballroom of the Hyatt Regency with a
night of dancing and delicious food.
The 16th Annual FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show will
take place in Guatemala, October 26-30, 2009. |
