Kingston, Jamaica – A particular delegation from the US, led by Ambassador Rena Bitter, the US State Division’s Assistant Secretary for Consular Affairs, alongside His Excellency Nick Perry, US Ambassador to Jamaica, and Sara Minkara, Particular Advisor on Worldwide Incapacity Rights, held high-level discussions with Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett as they explored accessible tourism alternatives within the post-COVID-19 period.
The delegation paid a courtesy name on Minister Bartlett, at his New Kingston places of work Wednesday (January 17). The session noticed a vibrant dialogue on how the nation can capitalize on the prospects for progress in inclusive and accessible tourism. Ambassador Bitter recommended Jamaica’s strides on this space, citing the numerous legislative progress that was made with the Disabilities Act coming into impact in 2022. Minister Bartlett reiterated the significance of catering to this market section, emphasising that it holds the potential not solely to create alternatives for small hoteliers but in addition to contribute considerably to the diversification of Jamaica’s tourism product.
On this regard, Minister Bartlett stated: “Selling inclusive and accessible tourism is not only about fulfilling an ethical obligation; it’s a strategic transfer for Jamaica. This market presents us with a novel alternative to realize our formidable targets for customer arrivals and tourism earnings. Strengthening partnerships with the US, particularly in areas associated to accessible tourism, will assist us create a extra various and welcoming vacation spot for all.”
Travellers with Disabilities
Highlighting the appreciable spending energy of travellers with disabilities, Ms. Minkara careworn the necessity for severe consideration of disabled individuals’ needs within the growth of the Ministry’s Vacation spot Assurance Framework and Technique (DAFS).
Minister Bartlett additionally acknowledged the very important function of the US as a supply market, with 73% of stopover visitors to Jamaica originating from the US. The tourism minister added that in 2023 alone, roughly 2.1 million People visited Jamaica as stopover guests, underscoring the importance of the bilateral relationship between each international locations.
The assembly, attended by representatives from the US Embassy and the Ministry, offered a possibility for Minister Bartlett to current signed copies of his just lately launched guide, “Thought Leadership on Tourism, Resilience and Sustainability in the 21st Century“.
