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Tourists urged to go skanking
Jamaica’s new tourism minister wants to try to encourage tourists to mix more with locals so the entire population can benefit financially and socially from visitors.
Speaking at Caribbean Marketplace in the Bahamas, Dr Wykeham McNeill said tourists would also get a more authentic Jamaican experience, which they would not be able to get anywhere else in the world.
"It could be singing "No woman no cry" with a local group, skanking after ska, eating ackee fish, jerk chicken or just relaxing with a rum cocktail," he said. "I am certain that any of these adventures will improve our overall visitor satisfaction and encourage return visitors."
The Jamaica Tourist Board set up has impressed the new minister and he praised its marketing skills and achievements over the past four years including the efforts made by the UK office that in Olympic year will be under even greater pressure to deliver exposure for the destination.
"2012 is a big big year for Jamaica. Not only do we have high expectations of our athletes in the London Games but it is also the 50th anniversary of independence," added McNeil.
"The whole year will see a series of events and promotions that will draw attention to the island’s many attributes not least of which are our sports facilities. We play cricket, soccer, netball, golf and participate in a whole host of other activities. Jamaica is an ideal destination for sports groups of all ages to visit and in many cases take on local teams at their chosen sports."
JTB – UK Director Elizabeth Fox with the new Jamaican Tourism Minister
McNeil, coming from a family hotel background, also had a final word swipe at the UK government’s refusal to reduce air passenger duty on flights to the Caribbean. He said months of diplomacy, meetings and research had led to false expectations, but added it was "time to move on".
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Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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