Jamaica has welcomed a record two million visitors thus far in 2024, more than ever reported during the period of January to May. Further solidifying its position as one of the world’s leading island travel destinations, Jamaica’s final tourism data for 2023 also notes a record-breaking 4.1 million visitors and 25.5% year-over-year increase in total visitation compared to 2022.
“Our recent tourism data is a testament to our ongoing resilience and support from our cherished partners,” said Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism, Jamaica. “This historic start to 2024, as well as last year’s notable rise in arrivals, is a result of our island’s vibrant spirit as well as various factors like additional airline seats, new hotel rooms, and growing interest from travelers around the world. To date, we have generated $1.9 billion in revenue this year and looking ahead, we are on track to bring almost $5 billion to our economy by 2025 – contributing directly to the prosperity of our island and people.”
2023 Saw Huge Tourist Returns
Following a significant bounce back in arrivals post-pandemic, travelers continued having their hearts set on the “One Love” island in 2023, especially those from the U.S, where arrivals were up 16.2% compared to 2022. All four major U.S. regions reported a large uptick in travelers headed to Jamaica, with the Midwest noting a 23.3% increase, the West 16.8%, the South 15%, and the Northeast 14.5%. A majority of U.S. travelers hailed from New York, with more than 350,000 New Yorkers paying the island a visit. The Empire State’s Irie spirit was nearly matched by Floridians, 326,633 of whom visited in 2023.
Poised to have the one of the most ambitious tourism growth plans in the Caribbean, Jamaica will continue to see an influx of tourism with more than 2,000 new hotel rooms expected to add to the island’s capacity, with new offerings from Princess, Hard Rock Hotels, Secrets and Viva Wyndham over the next two years.
“Through the consistent promotion of destination awareness and further expansion of attractions and experiences, Jamaica has maintained its positioning as the crown jewel of the Caribbean in this post-pandemic era,” said Donovan White, Director of Tourism, Jamaica. “Our friendly island has an outsized influence and will continue to welcome travelers worldwide.”
ABOUT JAMAICA TOURIST BOARD
The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), founded in 1955, is Jamaica’s national tourism agency based in the capital city of Kingston. JTB offices are also located in Montego Bay, Miami, Toronto and London. Representative offices are located in Berlin, Barcelona, Rome, Amsterdam, Mumbai, Tokyo and Paris.
In 2023, the JTB was declared ‘World’s Leading Cruise Destination’ and ‘World’s Leading Family Destination’ for the fourth consecutive year by the World Travel Awards, which also named it named “Caribbean’s Leading Tourist Board” for the 15th consecutive year, “Caribbean’s Leading Destination” for the 17th consecutive year, and the “Caribbean’s Leading Cruise Destination” in the World Travel Awards – Caribbean.’ In addition, Jamaica was awarded six gold 2023 Travvy Awards, including ‘Best Honeymoon Destination’ ‘Best Tourism Board – Caribbean,’ ‘Best Destination – Caribbean,’ ‘Best Wedding Destination – Caribbean,’ ‘Best Culinary Destination – Caribbean,’ and ‘Best Cruise Destination – Caribbean’ as well as two silver Travvy Awards for ‘Best Travel Agent Academy Program’ and ‘Best Wedding Destination – Overall.’’ It also received a TravelAge West WAVE award for ‘International Tourism Board Providing the Best Travel Advisor Support’ for a record-setting 12th time. TripAdvisor® ranked Jamaica the #7 Best Honeymoon Destination in the World and the #19 Best Culinary Destination in the World for 2024. Jamaica is home to some of the world’s best accommodations, attractions and service providers that continue to receive prominent global recognition and the destination is routinely ranked among the best to visit globally by prestigious international publications.
For details on upcoming special events, attractions and accommodations in Jamaica go to the JTB’s Website at www.visitjamaica.com or call the Jamaica Tourist Board at 1-800-JAMAICA (1-800-526-2422). Follow the JTB on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and YouTube. View the JTB blog at www.islandbuzzjamaica.com.
