The Jamaica Tourist Board is reporting a strong 2011 in tourism arrivals from the Latin American region with a record 23.4 percent increase in stopover arrivals compared to 2010.
Last year, Jamaica welcomed more than 16,000 Latin American visitors with the majority coming from markets such as Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico and Panama.
In December alone, Jamaica recorded a 36.6-percent increase in visitor arrivals, attributable in part to the new airlift from Copa Airlines, which started that month.
The Jamaica Tourist Board also credits the increase to the lifting of visa restrictions for travelers from Panama, Venezuela, and Colombia. Expectations are that this will result in continued growth from this market in 2012.
“Jamaica’s steady tourism growth is a testament to our continued dedication to providing the best value for our visitors,” said John Lynch, Jamaica’s director of tourism, in a written release. “With new and refreshed accommodations and attractions, plus enhanced infrastructure and quality service, we are ensuring that our diversified product will continue to attract both new and repeat visitors. We look forward to another year of tourism growth in Jamaica, as we continue to foster a strong relationship with Latin American travelers and boost airlift from this region.”
Visit www.visitjamaica.com.