Jamaica Open for Business!

Hi Everyone,

I received this information from the Jamaica Tourist Board and thought
it would be of interest. If you have missed any of my news' postings,
they are available on my web site.

Best regards,
Ray
LIGHTHOUSE TRAVEL
800-719-9917 or 805-566-3905
http://www.lighthousetravel.com


Jamaica Open for Business After Passing of Hurricane Charley

KINGSTON, Jamaica, Aug. 12
The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) is happy to report that the island has
been spared the onslaught of Hurricane Charley and it's business as
usual.
There was no major damage, and tourism interests are pleased the
weather conditions resulted in very little disruption in operations.

According to Tourism Director Paul Pennicook, "Now that the threat has
passed, we anticipate that the industry will continue to experience
the strong growth it has enjoyed since the post-9/11 recovery."

Hurricane Charley, which was upgraded from a tropical storm on
Wednesday afternoon, resulted in strong winds and heavy rains
islandwide. However, by late evening, the parishes most affected were
along the island's southern coast.

"Our hoteliers and allied partners had taken all necessary precautions
to ensure the safety of our visitors and we wish to assure the
traveling public that the hurricane had minimal impact on the
industry," said Godfrey Dyer, President of the Jamaica Hotel and
Tourist Association (JHTA).

Both international airports in Kingston and Montego Bay have resumed
normal operations.

"While the island has been spared the ravage of Charley, we are
however mindful of the hurricane's present path and hope our
neighbours enjoy a similar outcome," stated Aloun N'dombet-Assamba,
Minister of Industry and Tourism.

Details of upcoming special events, attractions and accommodations in
Jamaica are posted on the Jamaica Tourist Board Web site at
http://www.visitjamaica.com. JTB can be reached toll-free at
1-800-233-4JTB (1-800-233-4582).