received by - efile.fara.gov · 28-2-2019 · heritage which we will call "roots"...

Received by NSD/FARA Registration Unit 02/28/2019 12:10:24 PM

80)3roadStreet, Suite 3302, New York, NY 10004 •Phone: 2/2.635•9530 • Email: CT0ny@_,,caribtdurism.com www.OneCaribbean.org • www.CaribbeanTravel.com

ABOUT THE

STATE OF THE TOURISM INDUSTRY CONFERENCE - SOTIC 2018

The annual State of the Industry Conference (SOTIC) is the pre-eminent tourism gathering in the region. It brings together Caribbean tourism practitioners, policy makers, strategic partners from t.he public and private sectors, and travel professionals, to discuss issues, identify solutions and courses of action to keep the region competitive and therefore benefit its tourism industry.

Speakers of international and regional acclaim provide best case practices and winning strategies on a wide range of topics critical to the growth of Caribbean tourism, all with a view toward the development of a sustainable tourism industry. Youth from several CTO member countries contribute to the discussions at a Youth Congress, one of the several vehicles through which CTO encourages the best and brightest to consider tourism as a career.

SOTIC 2018 was held at the Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas. Business Meetings were held on October ls2 and the Conference from October 2-5, 2018.

Leading Sustainable Tourism - One Sea, One Voice, One Caribbean


Received by NSD/F ARA Registration Unit 02/28/2019 12: 10:28 PM

SOTIC2018 STATE OF TOURISM INDUSTRY CONFERENCE

AND CTO BUSINESS MEETINGS,

~~ ·@nm©iro©&n~ t?©IB ·•· · · '. :~0®®§5~ i@M~Il~ :, ....

. ' -- · .. ~-·: - -y·.-. ··,.

~ _·•- _''


,n~, ~ . /i,~·~


STATE OF THE TOURISM INDUSTRY CONFERENCE

THEMATIC BRIEF

/,,-. aribbean tourism is facing striking realities like extreme climate phenomena, political and ~economic realities and the accelerated rise in technological developments, which forces us to re-think travel how we utilize new concepts and models, and implement groundbreaking strategies that will help us expand into entirely new frontiers.

The th.eme for this year's State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC), Rejuvenate. Recreate. Reconnect. New Directions for Caribbean Tourism recognizes that in order to continue to grow tourism in a way that's sustainable and beneficial to all our communities, we must build an industry that is resilient, nimbl.e and aclaptable to changing situations.

The theme also reflects the Caribbean Year of Rejuvenation .a.nd WeUness. Wellness is a $3.7 . trillion segment which the Caribbean is ideally positioned to fully exploit. to emphasize the fact that the Region is the perfect Wellness destination, we have incorporated a Wellness Re-treat into the program,

This year's SOTIC will be different in other ways - each of the. three full days will be themed. Day One will feature Recreate when the focus will be on topics such as innovation, and building better, not just the physical infrastructure, but ori developing completely immersive experiences that are driven by technology.

Day Two will focus on Rejuvenation, when participants at the Caribbean Youth Congress add their vitality, freshness and unique perspective to the discussions. We will also delve into efforts underway through collaboration amongst regional and long-haul carriers to improve the travel experience to and within the Caribbean for residents and visitors.

On the third day we will focus on Reconnect and explore the powerful potential of Cultural Heritage which we will call "Roots" Tourism.

A common thread throughout the. conference programme will be a recognition that holidaymakers are no longer just interested in ticking destinations off their bucket list, but about accomplishing something they have never done before, while being conscious of the impact they have on communities they visit.

SOTIC lDll! is designed to deliver successful strategies that will result in a new direction in Caribbean tourism for the benefit of all stakeholdE!rs.

0.Clbah'"O"rn·o S I

I !fl';, oeJQ"

I l'1R'.=&:4t' .. ' 'l.Q. ' ~' ...- ! ' . OQ .~ '"!8.lv ,.

0 i '



MESSAGE FROM THE MII\IISER Of TOURISM, J\VIATI0I\I AI\ID BAHAMASAIR

J\1\10 CHAIRMAI\I, CARIBBEJ\1\1 TOURISM ORGAI\IIZATIOI\I

COUI\ICIL Of MII\IISTERS AI\ID COMMISSIOI\IERS OF TOURISM

HON. DIONISIO D'AGUILLAR

'l:'.\l elcome to my horne, the beaytiful Islands of the Bahamas. J;;t;;f We are honoured and delighted to host you over the next few days for the Caribbean Tourism Organization's State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC).

As the preeminent educational forum for Caribbean hospitality and tourism professionals SOTIC forces us to take a look at where we are, where we want to go, and how to get there. That it involves every aspect of Caribbean society - the youth, public and private sector decision makers, service providers, etc ~ makes it the most important event on the Caribbean's tourism calendar.

I welcome this opportunity to showcase our beautiful islands, our welcoming and warm people, and our many attractions, and to share with you the great country I have the wonderful privilege of enjoying every single day. Take a moment.to bask in shades of blue in the Exumas, fall in love with the colonial charm of the Abacos, escape to miles of sandy be.aches in the Acklins and Croc;,ked Island, lose yourself in the nature sanctuary that is Abacos, enjoy a once-in-alifetime experience of swimming with the pigs.

Every Bahamian Stands ready to help make this a memorable experience for you. Here, we take the business of tourism seriously because we recognise that it is the best hope for our small taribbe.an eco.nomies. ·

It is for this reason that we are extremely proud to host SOTIC, at a time when The Bahamas' chairmanship of the CTO ends. This is an organisation that is critical to the region's development and we are pleased to contribute to its growth and development. fhe Bahamas will remain an acti.ve mem.l:Jer of the CTO and will continue to play a part in its future direction as we pursue a sustainable tourism industry and to position the Caribbean as the most desirable year -round, warm weather desti.nation.

Thank you.

<;!obohciffiOS o(7Qit1 ..,_,100

•, .. .. 0

l-'1R/:~N --



CARIBBEAN WEEK IN NEW YORK Ci TY 2019

, SAVE THE DATE - JUNE 1-7, 2019 -- - - - a

- - ~ ---- -- - - ~ ' < ' p

Caribbean Tourism Or.ganization · 212-635--~530 I [email protected] I www.CaribbeanWeek.com

- ' ' - . "



MESSAGE FROM THE SECRETARY GENERAL AND

CHIEF ExECUTIVE OFFICER CARIBBEAN TOURISM ORGANIZATION

HUGH RILEY

..•.. . ,A'?

'l:l:l elcome to the 20:18 State ofthe Tourism Industry ConferJ;t;;f ence (SOTIC). Thank you for being with us!

?~.:~,~1 ¥-- \'·<.

Please join me in expressing our s.incere gratitude. to the Government and People of the Islands of the Bahamas for extending the warmest of welcomes to us.

'\j/) . ; ~,_-

We are grateful also, for the strong support given to the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) over the years, and the great spirit which The. Bahamas has displayed in preparing for the sane. We can't emphasize enough how appreciative we are of the leadership of the Ministry of Tourism, most notabiy Minister Dionisio D'Aguillar and Director General Joy Jibrilu, and their hardworking staff.

Ou.r CTO planning team has put together an excellent group of presenters who will share their experiences and engage you. We have combined the experience and expertise of local and regional tourism practitioners with that of international speakers to ensure tha.t you get a wellrounded view <;>f this global industry in which the Caribbean is a strong competitor.

Our theme, "Rejuvenate. Recreate. Reconnect: New Directions for Caribbean Tourism" will focus on where the industry is at present, where we ought to be, and what we need to do to get there.

We invite you to engage in this conv~rsation on the way forward, and to capitalise on the opportuniti.es provided by this unique mix of private- and public-sector policymakers, tourism professionals, journalists, educators, students and travel agents. Please also join me in thanking our entire CTO team for their diligence and expertise in organising and executing this important conference.

We hope you will find t.he en1:ire E!xperience inspiring and enjoyable.

C::40:~4-N ~

Received by NSD/F ARA Registration Unit 02/28/2019 12: l 0:28 PM

Received by NSD/F ARA Registration Unit 02/28/2019 12: I 0:28 PM

CONFERENCE ANCHOR

TELEVISION PRODUCER AND HOST OF "SHAPING UP WITH SANTANA"

SANTANA RODRIGUEZ

· A antana Rodriguez is currently a television producer and e!:1J host for the TV show titled "Shaping up with Santana". Santana is originally from Buffalo, NY and· currently resides in the city of Los Angeles, CA. She is of Puerto-Rican and Brazilian descent.

She possesses a 2 year associates of arts degree in Fas.hion Mer' chandising as well as a 4 year Bachelor of Science degree in Business

Administration. She not only has a corporate background, but worked as a television host as well as a commercial and theater actress in Los Angeles. She then changed genres and moved into the fitness arena where she won 6 regional competitions and took a national title called "Ms. Team USA Modelquest".

Santana has now created and developed her own fitness television series which is set to a_ir on October 17, 2018 on the Beach Channel at 9AM every Wednesday. She attributes all her success to her late father who passed away 2 years ago and has dedicated the show to h_im. She states that he was the greatest influence of her life. Both her parents became ill with her mother encountering 2 different types of cancers and her father suffering from Diabetes type2 where her dad lost both of his legs through 2 amputations and went blind in one eye. Even though her dad is in a peaceful place now, her mother is still alive and in remission to both cancers. These experiences made her want to give hack to the community by educating and raising self-awareness to the public. Because of these experiences, Santana created and produced the television show "Shaping up with Santana" and hopes this will leave a positive impact amongst her peers and followers. She believes making a difference is what it's all about.

'labahi:ilTIOS •(7"• ~·o • ..• ..

0


I ,ti, I. .'P


CONFERENCE KEYNOTE SPEAKER

CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER ♦ TRAVEL LEADERS GROUP

STEPHEN MCGILLIVRAY

A. tephen McGillivray, CfC, is the Chief Marketing Officer e!f:2J (CMO) of Travel Leaders Group, a North Arnerican travel company that generates gross travel sales approaching $21 billion annually and directly ernploys over 1,000 staff rnanagirig operations of rnore than 7,000 cornpany-owned, franchised and affiliated travel agencies in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Greece, Ireland and Australia. Today; Travel Leaders Group

· has over 40,000 travel agents Working directly for the organization or u_nder one of it_s brands.

As Travel Leaders Group's CMO, Mr. McGillivray is responsible for all marketing activities and related synergies throughout the $21 billion enterprise. These responsibilities include all business-to-business and business-to0consumer channels. As a member of Travel Leaders Group's senior leadership team, Mr. McGillivray directs the marketing strategies of the various business uni.ts across t_he group, and he also contributes to the strategic direction of the company.

Mr. McGillivray is a longtime veteran of the travel industry. Prior to his role as CMO of iravel Leaders Group, Mr. McGillivray served as vice president of marketing and public relations for Vacation.com, which was acquired by Travel Leaders Group in December 2010. Mr. McGillivray came to Vacation.com in August 2000 directly from the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA), the travel agency industry's trade association. At AStA, M_r. McGiliivray served as its sen.ior vice president of sales and marketing. Mr. McGillivray began his travel industry career with the National Railroad Passenger Corp. (Amtrak), first in field sales and then at the corporate headquarters in marketing.

In addition to earning his Certified Travel Co\Jnselor (CTC) designation from the Travel Institute, Mr. McGillivray earned a Bachelor of Science degree in education from the University of Rhode Island.

9obahiirri'65 ! o("10o -I~.

oo ,. 0

l¾l;:&.JtN --- i/~. i ~.;

Received by NSD/FARA Registration Unit 02/28/2019 12: 10:28 PM


CTO BUSlr\lESS MEEllr\16S Unless otherwise stated, all Business Meetings will be held at The Atlantis, Paradise Island

MONDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2018 ALL DAY CONFERENCE REGISTRATION

Venue: Conference Hospitality Desk

9:00pm,..3:00pm DESTINATION PRESS BRIEFINGS

Venue: Adonis

2:30pm-4:30pm EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING

Venue: Hermes 1

5:00am-6:30pm cro FOUNDATION BOARD Of DIRECTORS MEETING AND ELECTION

Venue: Hermes 1

7:00pm RECEPTION FOR MINISTERS, COMMISSIONERS, BOARD, AND

COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Venue: Imperial C

8:00pm RECEPTION FOR MEMBERS OF THE MEDIA

Venue: Graycliff

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2018 8:00am-12:00Noon CTO BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING

Venue: Poseidon

9:00am-4:00pm DESTINATION TOUR FOR MEMBERS OF THE MEDIA

12:30pm-2:00pm LUNCHEON FQR MINISTERS AND COMMISSIONERS OF TOURISM AND

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Venue: Imperial C

2:15pm-5:15pm MEETING OF THE CTO COUNCIL ciF TOURISM MINI.SYERS AND

COMMISSIONERS AND ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING AND ELECTIONS

Venue: Poseidon

7:00pm-8:30pm OPENING CEREMONY FOR ALL DUEGATES

Venue: Grand A, B, C - - , ~ -

8:30pm-10:00pm WELCOME RECEPTION FOR ALL DELEGATES

Venue: Grand E, F, G

Received by NSD/.F ARA Registration Unit 02/28/2019 12: 10:28 PM


STATE OF THE INDUSTRY CONFERENCE Unless otherwise stated, all Conference Sessions will be held at The Atlantis, Paradise Island

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2018 ♦ RECREATE

8:400am- 8:45am SECURITY BRIEFING

Venue: Grand A, B, C

9:00am-9:45am KEYNOTE ADDRESS FOR ALL DELEGATES

Speaker:

10:00am-11:30am

e'r,:C-~N --

• Stephen McGillivray, Chief Marketing Officer, Travel Leaders International


GENERAL SESSION I FOR ALL DELEGATES

BUILDING BETTER

The pursuit of an industry that is strong, vibrant, progressive and beneficial to all remains the primary focus of the Caribbean tourism sector. In this context, it is imperative that we develop a robust infrastructure, an attractive and constantly evolving product, and an unmistakably infectious brand. In other words, we must build better. This first session. will place a sharp focus on the critical priority areas that are necessary to build better, including financing, design and execution, and best practices that take into consideration the practical realities of the physical infrastructure. Speakers:

• Lt. General Russell Honore, US Army (Retired) • Tom Hook, Director, Planning and Landscape, North

America, B+H Architects • Jena Tesse Fox, Writer and Editor, Questex Media Hotel

Management Magazine a.nd t.he Hotel Design website • Hugh Riley, Secretary General and Chief Executive Officer,

Cari.bbean Tourism Organization

Moderator: • Hon. Dionisio D'Aguilar, Minister of Tourism & Aviation,

Bahamas and Chairman, Caribbean Tourism Organization Venue: Grand A, 8, C



STATE OF THE TOURISM INDUSTRY CONFERENCE ~enate, 'R§create, 'R§amnect. New <Directums for Cari66ean '1ourism.

. Wi;(>N!,SQAY, Q,TOB~3

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 2 .·· RECREATE

MONDAY, OCTOBER 1

9:0Dam--3:00prn 9:00am"-4:00prn 8: OOam-Noon 8:40am-8:45am Destination Press De$1ina1ion CTO Board a.I Di.rectors Securi1y Briefing

R . Briefings Tour for Members Maating R s GRANDA, B, C

E . ADONIS of the Media POSEIDON E 0 G G T 9:00am -9:45am

I I I Keynote Address for AH Delegates

s s C GRANDA, 8,C

T T 10:00am-11:30am R Membem of the R General Session I for All Delega1es A EicecuUvo A D Building Batter. T Committee, T E GRAND A, B, C I Ministers, 12:30pm-2:00pm I L 11:30am-Noon 0 Commissioners 1,1Jn¢haon for Ministers and 0 E Coffee Break for All Delegates N and Directors commissioners and N G GRAND FOYER

of Tourism Directors oflourism and A amvo Board of Directors T

0 IMPERIALC 0 E Noon -1 :30pm p p s General Session II for Al.I Delega1es

E E Commoditi2a1ion Without El<ploitation

N 2:15pm -5:15pm N A GRANDA, 8,C

2:30pm-4:30pm Meeting of the Council of ... - - .

R 1:30pm-3:00pm CTO Touriam Ministers and R Luncheon for All Del.ega1es

A Executive Committee Meeting Commissioners of Touri"!II A I GRANDE, F, G L HERMES I AND L V L Annual General Meeting L E

POSEIDON

A D D L A ' A L 3: 15pm"4:45pm y y General Se89ion Ill for All Delegates

D Modernizing tl1a El<perience

A GRAND A,_B,_C .

. 5:00prn-6:30prn y 5:30pm-7:00pm CTO Foundation Board of Directors Welcome, Orientation and Preeentation

Meeting and Elections Preview for HERMES I cartbbeen Youth Congress Participants

ARES AND CLEITO

7:00pm 8:00pm . 7:00pm-8:30pm 7:00pm-9:00pm Reception for Dinner Opening Ceremony for All Delegates Dinner for Members of the Media

Ministers, for the Media Keynote Spaaker. Commissioners, The Hon. Dr. Hubert A. Minnis, FREE EVENING

Board and Prima Minister, for all Other Delega1es Committee Members Commonwealth of the Bahamas

GRANDA, 8, C

8:30pm-10: OOpm Welcome Reception for All Delegates

GRAND □ . . ... ... .... ·-


.


PROGRAM-AT~A-GLANCE

- - - -THURSDAY, O!:"TO!iER4 fRIDAY,0cT!)ll~.5

SAll!RllAY, 0cTOBER6 REJUVENATE · R!,CQNNECT "'•" -· - .. . ., . - -·-- --· . - - - .. - ·- -- ------· -... --

WELLNESS RETREAT

8:00am-8:30am 8:00an-8:45am 8:00am-9:0.0am WELi.NESS Delegates Feature Address for All Delegates CTO Press Conference Networking and. Section RETREAT Depart w

Aviation ADONIS of Allied Membere to the CONTINUES E GRANDA, B, C CTO Board of Directors L

ATHENA L 9:30am-1 O:OOam 9:00am-10:30am N

Coffee Break for All Delegates General Session Vfor All Delegates E GRANO FOYER Developing the LuxuryWellness Product s

GRANDA, a C . s 10:ooam- Nodn Gene_ral Session IV for All Delegates

CARIBBEAN TOURISM YOUTH CONGRESS 10:30am-11:00am R Chairman: Francis Alexander, st. Lucia: Coffee Break for All Delegates E

2018 vo·utt, Congress Winner GRAND FOYER T GRANDA, B, C

11:00am-12:30prn R

General Se9'iion VI for AIIDelegates E A

12:3!lpm"-5:00pm Embracing The Caribbean -A Region of Roots

T Luncheon end

GRAND A, B, C

Destination Tour for Caribbean Youth Congress n30pm-2:0!lpm C

participants Luncheon for All Delegates 0

.GRANDE, F, G. N - -T 2:15pm-2:45pm

Wrap Up Session I Presenter. Santana Rodriguez, Conference Ancijor N

GRANDA, B, C u :i:61ipm -4:30pm E

4:00p111'-li:30pm General Session VII for All Delegates s Wellness Retreat Program Begins ST AKEHOLOERS SPEAK OUT

GRANDA, 13,C

-· - - - - -7:00pm

Free Evening for all Delegates Farewell function for All Delegates GRANDE, F, G

. - . - --- .. "-·



11:30am -12:00noon COFFEE BREAK FOR ALL DELEGATES Venue: Grand Foyer

12:00Noon- 1:30pm GENERAL SESSION II FOR ALL DELEGATES

COMMODITIZATION WITHOUT EXPLOITATION

One of the greatest criticisms of the Caribbean tourism industry is the commoditi.zation of the region's human, cultural, and natural assets to the point of exploitation. Too pervasive is the s.entiment th.at in the Caribbean, the interests of the tourists supersede those of the citizens, evidenced by the centering of destinations' activities and resources on satisfying tourism objectives. This ses-. sion will examine the critical factors which catalyze the misuse and overuse of the Caribbean's intrinsic resources for tourist con-sumption, as well as explore feasible opportunities to maximize the Caribbean's marine, cultural and heritage treasures to en-hance the tourism product without exploiting the region's inher-ent wealth. Speakers:

D Dr. Marcia Burrowes, Lecturer in Cultural Studies, . University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus

• Mr. Eric Carey, Executive Director, Bahamas National Trust

• Senator Jennifer Isaacs-Dotson, President, Caribl;lean Congress of Labor

Moderator:

• Dr. Deborah Hickling-Gordon, Principal Consultant, Ink and Vision ~td_.

Venue: Grand E, F, G . --· .. .. .

1:30pm - 3:00pm LUNCHEON FOR ALL DELEGATES Venue: Grand D

3:15pm - 4:45pm GENERAL SESSION Ill FOR ALL DELEGATES

MODERNIZING THE EXPERIENCE ..

Rapidly developing technology is forcing every sector of the ih-dustry to shift their approaches to visitors, and to create their own definition of the experience. Th.is means using technologies such as mobile apps and virtual reality to improve the experience and set ourselves apart. Airports must become memorab.le and enjoyable experiences, with facilities to shop without checkout

•~, i-~ ! x;, ••



systems; hotel must become customer-centric and must look beyond lengthy check-in queues for their guests; destinations must use the technology to reduce processing time upon arrival.

· This session will feature some · of the best exampies of how brands are using technology to go beyond the ordinary. Speakers:

• Kristie Powell, Co-Founder and CEO, Coral • Edouard Limon, Creative Director Winged Whale Media

Moderator:

• Casey Davy, Consultant, Co-Founder and Vice President, Sales & Head of Marketing, CAPP/Busy Rooms limited


5:30pm - 7:00pm WELCOME, ORIENTATION AND PRESENTATION PREVIEW FOR

CARIBBEAN YOUTH CONGRESS PARTICIPANTS

Venue: Ares and Cleito

7:00pm - 9:00pm DINNER FOR MEMBERS OF THE MEIJI.A

FREE EVENING FOR AU OTHER DELEGATES

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2018 ♦ REJUVENATE 8:00am - 9:30am

I I £;~

I l~J I-~! I •I ........

FEATURE ADDRESS FOR ALL DELEGATES

THE SKY IS THE LIMIT SPONSORED BY: SA_M_AC - $ociete Aeroport Martinique Aime

cesaire

Feature Speaker: • · Martin Copeland, President, I Kew

Airlines are just as interested ih maximizing Caribbean tourism potential as destinations and in recent times there have been efforts by long-haul and regional a.irlines to make travel to and within the Caribbean less complex, more effective and customer friendly. Partnerships are being formed, new routes are being opened and technology is being put to greater use. Long-haul ai_rlines from tourism source markets such as the USA, Canada,



.

Europe and Latin America are working with some regional carriers to expand travel to many Caribbean destinations. At the same time regional carriers are striving to get better in the air and on the ground, to make flight connectivity wit.h long-haul airlines seamless and to improve the travel experience within the Caribbean for tourists and local resi<jents. As much Qf this travel product relies on the.services of long-haul airlines, what is the impact of disruptive events on air services, how can the destinations recover, how can they work with long-haul airlines to restore services and with regional airlines to help with intra-Caribbean air travel? With the right people and policies and the concerted efforts of all stakeholders, there is virtually no limit to the potential for reliable, convenient, effective and customer-focussed air services. A panel of airline representatives with extensive Caribbean interests will provide their insights on these issues and how Caribbean access can be improved for the benefit of all. Speakers:

• Tracy Cooper, CEO, Bahamasair • Trevor Sandler, CEO, interCaribbean Airways • Susan Michael, Director, Revenue Management, RM Joint

Bus & Contra.cted Pricing, American Airlines • Diane.Shurland, General Counsel, LIAT (1974) Ltd.

Moderator: • Martin Copeland, President, I Kew.


9:30am~ 10:00am COFFEE BREAK i:oil Ai.i. DELEGATES··

10:00am-12:00Noon

Venue: Grand Foyer

GENERAL SESSION IV FOR ALL DELEGATES

CARIBBEAN TOURISM YOUTH CONGRESS The Caribbean Tourism Youth Congress is an integral part of CTO's annual tourism conference and is a regional activity in.volving student.s between the ages of 14 and 17 from CTO member

. countries. Its main aim is to stimulate greater awareness and excitement about tourism among young people in our Caribbean communities, by allowing them to research various facets of the tourism sector and share their ideas and vision with respect to future directions for Caribbean Tourism. Delegates should expect

ef<':~! ··--

I d.lJf\, 1,~, i \!".,



a thought-provoking and spirited exchange of views among our future leaders of the Region, as these young national "Junior Mini.sters of Tourism" compete for important priies and the chance to be a youth ambassador for their destination and the region for a year. Chairman:

• Fr.incis Alexander, Saint Lucia: 201.7 Yout.h Congress Winner Venue: Grand A, B, C

12:30pm-5,00pm LUNCHEON AND DESTINATION TOUR FOR CARIBBEAN YOUTH,

CONGRESS PARTICIPANTS

4:00pm-5:30prn WELLNESS RETREAT PROGRAM BEGINS

Free Evening for All Delegates

FRIDA\', OCTOBER 5, 2018 ♦ RECONNECT

8:00am- 8:45am CTO PRESS CONFERENCE

8:00am-9:00am

Venue: Adonis

NETWORKING AND ELECTION OF ALLIED MEMBERS TO THE CTO BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Venue: · Athena

9:00am-10:30am GENERAL SESSION V FOR ALL DELEGATES

'£ I /!ffe .. ,' '' .;_,j

,\~

DEVELOPING THE LUXURY WELLNESS PRODUCT

The Caribbean's appeal as a region for wellness is undeniable, with countless events, activities and experiences to help visi.tors renew mind, body and spirit. However, we must go beyond offering massages, yoga, salon. treatments, weight-loss programmes and the like to increase earnings from this very important niche. This session will provide practical examples of how the region can tap into the lucrative luxury weUness travel.ler segment of this $3.7 trillion industry by developing a product that exceeds their expectations. Speakers:

• Tricia Greenaway, President, Antigua & Barbuda Spa Association and Spa Manager, Galley Bay Resort



• Natila Saunders, Proprietor, Skin Solution Day Spa & Salon • Hon. Cardigan Connor, Parliamentary Secretary,

Government of Anguilla • Samantha Murdock-Hammond, Founder, 'Jus Adventures'

Travel Agency Moderator:

• Beverly Maloney-Fischback, CEO & Founder, Organic Spa Media, Ud.


1():30am-11:00prh COFFEE BREAK FOR ALL DELEGATES

11:00am-12,30prn

Venue: Grand Foyer

GENERAL SESSION V_I FOR ALL DE.LEG.ATES

EMBRACING THE CARIBBEAN - A REGION OF ROOTS

The long and profound colonial history of the Caribbean has resulted in a cultural hybridity of an intensity and complexity that is unrivalled in any other part of the world. It Was out of this convergence of African, Amerindian, Asian and European cultures that all things Caribbean, including a unique genealogy, and wellness practices, were born. This session will embark on a journey to trace the roots of the C_aribbean through an in-depth look at the genealogy programmes of the region, as well as a journey to taste the roots of t_he Ca_ribbean through exploration of the endemic wellness customs of a unique people who have preserved and developed the traditional medicinal and wellness practices of their ancestors. In so doing, this discussion will solidify how the Carib" bean, the Region of Roots, can use and has used some of its fundamental assets to sustainably enhance its tourism product in a way that is as inimitable as the region itself. Speakers:

• Zoila Ellis Browne, Technical Programme Consultant, Garifuna Heritage Foundation

• Aimei Aowmati, President and Executive Director, Guyana Association of Alternative Medicine Institute

• Erol Josue, Director General, National Bureau of Ethnology, Haiti

• Diane Warmsley, Genealogist, Roots Run Deep

t:-4Ri,f~i'!N -~



Moderator: • Rowena Poitier-Sutherland, Director of Culture. Bahamas

Ministry of Youth, Sports and C::ult.ure Venue: Grand A, B, C

12:30pm-i:00pm LUNCHEON FOR ALL DELEGATES

Venue: Grand Ballroom E, F, G

2:15pm-2:45pm WRAP UP SESSION Presenter: Santa.na Rodrigue~

3:00pm-4:30pm GENERAL SESSION VII FOR ALL DELEGATES

6kc:~N --

STAKEHOLDERS SPEAK OUT

While the State of the Tourism Industry Conference features a wide range of leading experts who share examples of successful practices from which we can learn; the people who have a d.irect stake in tourism: the hotel worker, taxi driver, restaurateur, farmer, banker, salon or spa worker - the general public - must also have a say. These are the people who are in direct contact with the visitor, who hear their wncern and who leave the most lasting impression of the Caribbean. They hear the stories we don't hear, see visitors from a perspective we do not, and view the destination from a perspective we often miss. This session gives stakeholders a voice, allows them to share their unique experiences and offer critical recommendations on how to rejuvenate, recreate, reconnect, and set new directions for Caribbean tourism. Speakers:

• Anna Bancroft, General Manager, Tru Bahamian Food Tours

• Joy Jibrilu; Director General, Bahamas Ministry of Tourism • Janet Silvera, Journalist, The Gleaner • Russell Miller, Senior Vice President and General

Manager, Cove and Reef, Atlantis • Jacqueline Johnson, President, Global Bridal Group

Moderator: • Jerome Sawyer, CEO, J Sawyer & Associates


7:00pm FAREWELL FUNCTION FOR ALL DELEGATES

Venue: Grand E, F, G

Received.by NSD/FARA Registration Unit 02/28/2019 12:10:28 PM

Received by NSD/FARA Registration Urtit 02/28/2019 12:10:28 PM

STATE OF THE TOURISM INDUSTRY CONFERENCE

-~--- - ----- - SPONSOR !

- - --------~-- - - - - -- I

AEROPORT INTERNATIONAL

MARTINIQUE AIME CESAIRE I -------- --

SUPPORTING CARRll:RS --~ --- -- --- -

American Airlines ~ii..

. :,;:_ ._--...'=-·

interCaribbean ~.DELTAf~

AIR LINES

jetBlue· 1he warmth of the islands

- -----~------ -- - -

Disclaimer: lnformati_on is correct at the time of printing but subject to change. ---------~ - -- --- - -- --------- ~---- - -- - ----- ----



CARIBBEAN TOURISM

ORGANIZATION

FOUNDATION

©eve{.opi.ne 'Future Leatfers fur <tourism

PLEDGE FORM DONO_R_ 1-NFORMATION .

-- - - - -

Name: --------~~p=ie°"as"°"e°"p~n"'nl,-,,le""g"',b""'ly,-------------

Company (if applicable): __ ~----------------

Phone:

Email: -------------------------~~ PLEDGE INFORMATION

. -- ~-----=------

I/we pledge a total of $ _______ to be paid: LJ Now LJ Monthly LJ Quarterly LJ Yearly

I/we plan to make this contribution in the form of: LJ Cash LJ Check LJ Credit Card

Charge my Credit Card for a total of US $ _____ _

LJ MC LJ Visa LJ AMEX Card No.:

Exp. Date:_· ~ ___ Security Code: ____ Card Zip Code:

Cardhol_der Signature: -----~-~ _____ Date: ------- -------- -

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT INFORMATION - - - - - - . - - -

Please use the following name in all acknowledgements:

LJ I/we wish to have our gift remain anonymous Please make check payable to:

CARIBBEAN TOURISM ORGANIZATION FOUNDATION Mail check to:

c/o Caribbean Tourism Organization 80 Broad Street, Suite 3302 J New York, NY 10004 212-635-9530 I [email protected]

Received by NSD/F ARA Registration Unit 02/28/2019 12: l 0:28 PM

- '--'; •,:

~--c;' ',",\ ,._,. .

. ·. • A@m@IP@~li' owiv§m!NIA'ii;o@~·dn, · < ·

iMA!m"~N~QUJE AmMJ~ ~ij~JE·

• ''1Allttle step taken together

. . .

/J7,1,~>qetter than a big solitary leap.. ..· ..... ·.·· ·· ·•· , ;/: .

. ·,:•··. '\::Jfl'petit pas fail ensemble ec,· · · . • .. • //•

• .. ·. vautJnieux qu·un grand bond solitaire .Jl_j'Aitne Cesai;;,/1''

·. ·-< : ... ::,. .. ~,_::,~;:;->. .. -- •,: . ,..,.~,, ;_:":.:-,l;:,


MEDIA CONTACT: fo!ui.scni. fohnRose - CTO Tel: (246) 427-5242 / Email: jjohnrose@caribtourism,c9m

Theresa M. Oakes~ KTCpr Tel: (516) 594-4100 I Email: [email protected]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

'REJUVENATE, RECREATE, RECONNECT - NEW DIRECTIONS FOR CARIBBEAN TOURISM' AT STATE OF THE TOURISM INDUSTRY CONFERENCE (SOTIC)

Scheduled/or 2-5 Oct. 2018, Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (25 July 2018) - The Caribbean Tourism Organization

(CTO) is examining new strategies to sti111ulate growth in the region's tourism industry at this

year's State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) themed Rejuvenate, Recreate,

Reconnect - New Directions for Caribbean Tourism.

Scheduled 2-5 Oct. 2018 at Atlantis, Paradise Island in The Bahamas, SOTIC 2018 wiU

consider ways to build a tourism industry that is resilient and able to adapt to changing trends,

demands and. situations.

"Globally, the tourism industry is constantly evolving. At I.he Caribbean Tourism

Organization, we must be in the forefront of anticipating and managing the changes that affect

our region - extreme climate phenomena, political and economic realities at home and abroad,

and the rapid rise in technological developrnents," said Hugh Riley, secretary general and CEO

ofCTO.

"In order to continue to grow our tourism in a way that is sustainable and beneficial to

our communities, we must be open to new thinking, which often means breaking out of

traditional comfort zones. SOTIC 2018 is intended to inspire action to develop innovative



concepts, tools and models, and implement strategies that recognise the changing demands of

international travellers. Exceeding the expectations of increasingly knowledgeable consumers is

a challenge the Caribbean must always be prepared to meet," Riley added.

The SOTIC theme ties in CTO's declaration of2018 as the "Caribbean Year of

Rejuvenation and Wellness", with multifaceted themes for each of the three ccmference days:

• Day one is centred on "Recreate" with discussions focused on innovation, business

development and building better, not just the physical infrastructure, but an entire

immersive experience that is dri'len by technology.

• The second day will delve into "Rejuvenation," featuring a blend of creative ideas and

cutting edge thinking on what can be done to add vitality, energy and freshness into the

Caribbean tourism product. Discussions will also focus oh efforts by regional carriers to

make travelling through the region less challenging and enhance the visitor experience.

• Emphasis on day three will be on ''Reconnecting," where participants will explore ways

to distinguish the Caribbean tourism product by incorporating the region's unique

cultural hybridism and endemic wellness customs into programmes.

Throughout the three-day event, delegates will address visitors' desire for new

experiences, while being conscious of the impact they have on the communities they visit.

Caribbean tourism practitioners, policymakers, travel professionals and strategic partners

from the public and private sectors throughout.the region and internationally participate each

year in SOTlC.

SOTIC is being organised by the CTO in collaboration with the Bahamas Ministry of

Tourism. The conference will be preceded by busines.s meetings on I - 2 Oct. 2018.

Sponsorship opportunities and details are available from CTO USA 212-635-9530 or via

http://sotic.onecaribbean.org/sponsor.

For further details on the conference, including how to register, please visit

http://sotic.onecaribbean.org/.

About the Caribbean Tourism Organization The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), with headquarters in Barbados, offices in New York and London and representation in Canada, is the Caribbean's tourism development agency comprising membership of the region's finest countries and territories including Dutch, English, French and Spanish, as well as a myriad of private sector allied members. The CTO's vision is to

Received byNSD/FARA Registration Unit 02/28/2019 12:10:31 PM


position the Caribbean as the most desirable, year round, warm weather destination, and its purpose is Leading Sustainable Tourism - One Sea, One Voice, One Caribbean.

Among the benefits to its members the organization provides specialized support and technical as.sist.1,nce in sustainable tourism development, marketing, communications, advocacy, human resource development, event planning & execution and research & information technology.

The CTO's Headquarters is located at Baobab Tower, Warrens, St. Michael, Barbados BB 22026; Tel: (246) 427-5242; Fax: (246) 429-3065; E-mail: [email protected];

The CtO's New York office is located at 80 Broad St., Suite 3302, New York, NY 10004, USA: Tel: (212) 635-9530; E-mail: [email protected];

The CTO's London office is located at Suites 52A & 53, 5th Floor AMP House, Dingwall Road Croydon CR0 2LX, England. Tel: 01144208 948 0057; Fax: 011 44 208 948 0067; E-mail: CTOlondon@caribtourism,com . .. , . . '.

CTO has representation in Canada; Tel: (905) 857-1986; Email: [email protected].

For more information on the Caribbean Tourism Organization, please visit www.OneCaribbean.org and follow CTO on Facebook, Twitter, lnstagram and Li11kedln to be part of the conversation.

###

-ends-


Received by NSD/F ARA Registration Unit 02/28/2019 12:10:31 PM

MEDIA CONTACT: fofoison JohiiRose - CTO

. , ' ·,· . : .. ·.. ·. An oHbe. 01aterials Sf!' di~rib11te{I l>y tbe:<:~ribbea_ilT(iilrisin Orgaiiiiati<in USA, .Inc~ <>ii behalf of Caribbean Tourism Organization, and .additional information is ·on file witli the Department of Jiistlce, Washington, District of Columbia; ·

, ... ' ' ;. :. ." -'- . ;. __ ,_,-_ .: . -.. . • .. :".::· .: .. ·- '. . . ' ,·_:, '


Tel: (246) 427-5242 / Email: [email protected]

TOURISM HUMAN RESOURCE PROFESSIONALS TO PLAN STRATEGiES TO BUILD HIGH PERFORMANCE WORKFORCE

"· CTO organises 9'h Annual Tourism HR Conference in the Cayman Islands.from 28-30 November, 2018-

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (26 July 2018)- When human resource professionals from across the

region meet in the Cayman Islands in November for the 9th Tourism Human Resources Conference,

they will be challenged to develop effective strategies and plans to build a high performance and

motivated workforce.

The 28-30 November conference, organised by the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO),

in collaboration with the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism (CIDOT), comes at a time when

I.he Caribbean faces increased competition in the global, high-tech, innovation driven industry, and

amidst increasing calls for a total rethink of the way tourism leaders engage with the workforce.

"There is an urgent need for a high performance,- resiHent workforce which is critical for

sustainability of the tourism sector in this ever-changing environment," Sharon Banfield-Bovell,

the CTO' s regional human resource development consultant said as planning for the conference

intensifies.

Building high performance teams come with challenges, she said, including employees'

unwillingness or lack of motivation to change; low employee productivity and morale; and tbe

scarcity of relevant skills, as well as weak or outdated leadership thinking and styles.


Received by NSD/FARA Registration Unit 02/28/2019 12:10:3 I PM

However, Banfield-Bovell said, while technology can help drive efficiency, "the real value in

tourism is our human resources - the power of people - and the ability of a well-trained, highly . . valued, and fairly compensated workforce to transcend beyond process and profit".

The conference, which has as its theme Building a Resilient, High-Performing and

Sustainable Caribbean Tourism Workforce For Global Competitiveness, will feature experts

in human resources, tourism and labour, including Claudia Coenjaerts, director of the International

Labour Organization's decent work team and office for the Caribbean, Who will deliver the

keynote address on, The Future of Work - What will become the New Normal.

The CTO team has been working with the CIDOT to produce a dynamic programme of

plenaries, masterclasses, a students' forum and a tour.

"As Caribbean nations, it is imperative that we make the necessary investments which drive

visitation in this globally competitive industry. While these investments often come in the form of

property development or increased marketing, it is my belief that the greatest asset any tourism

product has is its people," commented Rosa Harris, director of tourism for the Cayman Islands.

"The Cayman Islands has continued to develop our local tourism workforce through nationwide

customer service training, tertiary educat_ion scholarships and the establishment of a vocational

certification programme through our School of Hospitality Studies. We are proud to host the 2018

Caribbean Tourism Organization's Human Resources Conference and look forward to inviting

professionals from across the region, to share best practices on ways we can strengthen our tourism

workforces for collective success."

Registration and other information available at www.onecaribbean.org.

About the Caribbean Tourism Organization the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), with headquarters in Barbados, offices in New York and London and representation ·in Canada, is the Ca.ri.bbean' s tourism development agency comprising membership of the region's finest countries and territories including Dutch, English, French !lnd Spanish, as well as a myriad of private sector allied members. The CTO's vision is to position the Caribbean as the most desirable, year round, warm weather destination, and its purpose is Leading Sustainable Tourism O One Sea, One Voice, One Caribbean.

Among the benefits to its members the organization provides specialized support and technical assistance in sustainable tourism development, marketing, communications, advocacy, human resource development, event planning & execution and research & information technology.




The CTO's New York office is located at 80 Broad St., S.uite 3302, New York, NY 10004, USA: Tel:. (212) 635-9530; E-mail: [email protected];

The CTO's London office is located at Suites 52A & 53, 5th Floor AMP House, Dingwall Road Croydon CR0 2LX, England. Tel: 011 44 208 948 0057; Fax: 011 44 208 948 0067; E-mail: [email protected].


For mote information on the Caribbean Tourism Organization, please visit www.OneCaribbean.org and follow CTO on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Linkedln to be part of the conversation. · · ·

. ###.

-ends-



MEDIA CONTACT: Johnson JohnRose ~ CTO

. NI of the i!Jatel'ials ;fr~ disti"ibuJ~d by the Catibbean Tourism Otga:oiiation USA, I.n.:; on behalf of Caribbean Tourism Organizatjon, and additio!lal information is on file with 1'1• .·

· Uepa '1ni"°t of-Justice, "'~shin~"n,. Wstricf or C~lu!llf!ia.



Theresa M. Oakes - KTCpr Tel: (516) 594-4100 / Email: [email protected]

CTO HELPS DOMINICA PREPARE TO COPE WITH THE IMPACT OF CLIMATE

CHANGE

- A two-day climate sensitisation and disaster risk management workshop was part of a series

of training programmes being conducted by the organisation in that member country -

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (30 July 2018)- The Caribbean Tourism Organization

(CTO), the region's tourism development agency, has been working closely with its member

country, Dominica, to be better able to plan for, withstand and recover from the negative impacts

of climate change and natural disasters.

The CTO has completed a two-day climate sensitisation and disaster risk management

workshop in Roseau, aimed at facilitating the sharing of knowledge and best practices on

strategies rel.ated to climate mitigation and adaptation, as well as identifying sound disaster risk

management approaches.

Dominica suffered a direct hit by category five Hurricane Maria last September, which

wiped out 226 per cent of its gross domestic product, two years after Tropical Storm Erika

passed over the island, destroying an entire village, killing 20 people and leaving behi.nd gamage

to 90 per cent of the country's GDP.



"The topics of climate change and disaster preparedness are very pertil)ent to us in

Dominica and in the wider Caribbean. We live in a region that is prone to the effects of climate

change and disasters especially hurricanes. Of course, we have first-hand knowledge and recent

experience with hurricanes," Colin Piper, the chief executive officer of Discover Dominica

Authority (ODA), the island's tourist board, said at the opening of the workshop

"Anecdotal data indicates that tourism arrivals after natural disasters reduce by up to 30

per cent for up to three years. We are in fact experiencing a reduction in promotable visitor

arrivals. For some properties, their occupancy levels may be up due to aid and agency short

stays, but we must address this issue which threatens our livelihood within the hospitality

industry and as nation," he added.

Thirty tourism practitioners and decision makers from the public and private sectors

participated in the event, which formed part of the "Supporting a Climate Smart and Sustainable

Caribbean Tourism Industry" project currently implemented by the CTO, with funding and

technical assistance from the Caribbean Development Bank, through the joint Natural Disaster

Risk Management (NDRM) programme for Caribbean Forum states, undertaken in conjunction

with the African Caribbean and Pacific Group and the European Union.

The 26-27 July workshop, facilitated by strategic planning expert Dr. Jennifer Edwards,

was the latest in a series of training programmes being conducted by the CTO for Dominica.

Earlier this month a "Delivering Quality Service" workshop was held for 55 craft and

s.ouvenir vendors, hair braiders and tourism taxi service providers to help them better appreciate

the importance of their roles in visitor satisfaction; improve people relations through effective

communication and understand how positive visitor interactions result i.n satisfied visitors.

That workshop, facilitated by the CTO's regional human resources development

consultant Sharon Banfield- Bovell, covered areas such as understanding the customer, the

importance of delivering quality customer service and the ten principles of customer service, all

areas which Dominica said were critical in ensuring the service providers are equipped with the

necessary skill set to deliver the highest level of customer service.

In addition, 25 participants each are to be trained in the management of sites and

attractions at a workshop which targets forestry park wardens and the Waitukubuli National Trail

Project among others, and a management of service quality workshop for senior executives and

general managers in private and public sector tourism enterprises.

Received by N°SD/F ARA Registration Unit 02/28/2019 12: 10:31 PM


The CTO's resource mobilisation and development division offers several training and

development programmes, for member countries and the tourism sector, in keeping with its

mandate to assist in developing and strengthening human capital in the region's tourism sector so

as to offer high levels of professional service.

Abo1Jt th_e Caribbean Tourism Orga_nization The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), with headquarters in Barbados, offices in New York and London and representation "in Canada, is the Caribbean's tourism development agency comprising membership of the region's finest countries and territories including Dutch, English, French and Spanish, as well as a myriad of private sector allied members. The CTO's vision is to position the Caribbean as the most desirable, year round, warm weather destination, and its purpose is Leading Sustainable Tourism - One Sea, One Voice, One Caribbean.



The CTO's New York office is located at 80 Broad St., Suite 3302, New York, NY 10004, USA: Tel: (212) 635-9530; E-mail: [email protected];

The CTO's London office is located at Suites 5_2A_ & 53, 5th Floor AMP House, Dingwall Road Croydon CR0 2LX, England. Tel: 01 I 44 208 948 0057; Fax: 01144208 948 0067; E-mail: CTOlondon@caribtourism,com.

C_TO has representation in Canada; Tel: (905) 857-1986; Email: [email protected].

For more information on the Caribbean Tourism Organization, please visit www.OneCaribbean.org and follow CTO on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Linkedln to be part of the conversation.

###

-ends-



MEDIA CONTACT: · Johnson JohnRose - CTO

. All of the materials are distrib11t~ by tii.e Caribb~a!l Tourism ·. Qrgali~tioo . USA, llie~ ... on . be!talf yf Caribbean Tourism .

, :organization,· 'and additional• ioformatjon . is. OIi. fl)e with th.e .: Departiiient of Jusiiee, Washington, District ofColnnibi~. · ·.



Theresa M .. Oal<:es - KTCpr Tel: (516) 594-4100 / Email: [email protected]

TELEVISION HOST AND WELLNESS ENTHUSIAST SANTANA RODRIGUEZ TO ANCHOR STA TE OF THE TOURISM INDUSTRY CONFERENCE

-SOTIC 2018 is scheduled/or 2-5 Oct. 2018,Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas~

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (13 Aug. 2018)-A California-based television presenter

turned wellness enthusiast with strong ties to the Caribbean will host this year's State of the

Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) in the Bahamas.

The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) has confirmed Santana Rodriguez, the

former weather personality and news reporter at Crown City News in Pasadena, and former



entertainment host and morning news reporter at KLEO Television in Hollywood, California, as

anchor for the 2-5 .October conference, being organized in collaboration with the Bahamas

, ministry of tourism.

Rodriguez, who was born in Puerto Rico to a Puerto Rican father and Brazilian mother

before moving to the United States at two months old, also worked as an on-air television host

and segment producer for the television show, NYC Profiles, on Bloomberg local television in

New York.

"As the daughter ofa Puerto Rican father I am proud ofmy Caribbean heritage, and I am

humbled, yet honoured and excited to host the Caribbean's most important tourism event. I

encourage everyone with a remote interest in Caripbean tourism or the region as a whole to

register and attend the State of the Tourism Industry Conference," Rodriguez said.

As a fitness and wellness enthusiast, the former fitness champion and magazine print

model is the producer and presenter of her own show, Shaping Up With Santana, which first

ran in Los Angeles, and is set to air on the South Florida lifestyle network, the Beach Channel,

from 17 October, and will be streamed 'live', on its website, www.thebeachchannel.tv.

Rodriguez has degrees in fashion merchandising and business administration, and is a

former commercial and theatre actress in Los Angeles.

Themed, Rejuvenate, Recreate, Reconnect - New Directions for Caribbean Tourism,

this year's SOTJC at Atlantis, Paradise Island brings together tourism practitioners, policymakers

and strategic partners, at the highest levels, along with speakers of international acclaim who will

provide best case practices and winning strategies on a wide range of topics that are critical to

the growth of regional tourism.

Youth from several CTO member countries will make their contributions to the

discussions at a Youth Congress, one of the vehicles through which the CTO encourages the best

and brightest to consider tourism as a career.

Sponsorship opportunities and details are available from CTO USA 212-635-9530 or via

http:/ /sotic.onecari bbean .org/sponsor.



About the Caribbean Tourism Organization



The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), with headquarters in Barbados, offices in New York and London and representation in Canada, is the Caribbean' s tourism development agency comprising membership of the region's finest countries and territories including Dutch, English, French and Spanish, as well as a myriad of private sector allied members. The CTO's vision is to position t.he Caribbean as the most desirable, year round, warm weather destination, and its purpose is. Leading Sustainable Tourism - One Sea, One Voice, One Caribbean.


the CTO's Headquarters is located at Baobab Tower, Warrens, St. Michael, Barbados BB 22026; Tel: (246) 427-5242; Fax: (246) 429-3065; E-mail: [email protected];




For more information on the .Caribbean Tourism Organization, please visit www.OneCatibbean.org and follow CTO on Facebook, Twitter, lnstagram and Linkedln to be part of the conversation.

###

-ends-



All of ti!~ materials are distril,uted by th~ Ca;ibbean tourism · Org~iilzlition USA,· l11e;, on behalf of Caribbean Touris'l' ·

. Orga~ati~n; anc! ;tdditio11~1 int~rmatipn is on we ~ ,the . O~P8)1'l'ent ofJustiee,. \1\'ashillgton; Disfrict of.~olumbia. , ·

' . ' ' . ''. ., . ' ' ' .. : ~-· ' •,. ,, ' ;,. . ' ' "


MEDIA CONTACT: Johnson JohnRose - CTO Tel: (246) 427-5242 / Email: [email protected]

Theresa M. Oakes - KTCpr Tel: (516) 594-4100 I Email: [email protected]

IMMERSIVE tECHNOLOGY-DRIVEN EXPERIENCE SLATED FOR OPENING DAY OF CARIBBEAN STAtE OF THE TOURISM INDUSTRY CONFERENCE (SOTIC)

Scheduled for 2-5 Oct. 2018, Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (11 Sept. 2018)- The opening day of the Caribbean Tourism

Organization's (CTO) State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) centres on the

"Recreate" theme with discussions focused on innovation, business development a.nd building

better. The conversation will transcend physical infrastructure to examine an entire immersive

experience that is driven by technology among other factors.

"The Caribbean must examine and utilize new technologies designed to upgrade and

enhance the region's tourism product in order to be competitive on a global scale," said Sylma

Brown, the head of the CTO's New York office, which oversees the conference. "The first day

of the State of the Tourism Industry Conference will challenge previous notions with innovative

ideas for redesigning business operations and infrastructure to optimize tile guest experience '

within each destination, resort, guesthouse, attraction and cultural event," she added.

Scheduled for 2•5 Oct. 2018 at Atlantis, Paradise lsla_n_d in The Bahamas, general SOTIC

sessions start on 3 Oct: and will be anchored by Puerto Rico-born Santana Rodriguez, television

producer and former news personality at Crown City News in Pasadena wbo also served as

entertainment host and morning news reporter at KLEO television in Hollywood, California.



The first general session, "Building Better," aims to guide the development of regional

infrastructure and product evolution while influencing th_e enhancement of the Caribbean's

unmistakably infectious brand. There will be a sharp focus on the critical priority areas that are

necessary to build better, including financing, design and execution, and best practices that take

into consideration the practical realities of physical infrastructure.

Panellists include Hugh Riley, the CTO's secretary general; Tom Hook, the North

American director of planning and.landscape at B+H Architects; General Russel Honore, a

retired U.S. military officer who led the department of defense response to Hurricanes Katrina

and Rita in Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana; and Jena Tesse Fox, a writer and editor for

Questex Media's Hotel Management and Hotel Design magazines.

Moderated by Dr. Deborah Hickling-Gordon, Principal Consultant, Ink and Vision, Ltd.,

the second general session, "Commoditization Without Exploitation," will examine the critical

factors which catalyze the misus.e and overuse of the Caribbean's intrinsic resources for tourist

consumption, as well as explore feasible opportunities to maximize the Caribbean's marine,

cultural and heritage treasures to enhance the tourism product without exploiting the region's

inherent wealth. The panel will feature Greg'ory Bethel, seni_or economist at the department of

marine resources of The Bahamas; Dr. Marcia Burrowes, lecturer in cultural studies at the

University of the West Indies Cave Hill campus; and Senator Jennifer Isaacs-Dotson, president

of the Caribbean Congress of Labour.

A general session on "Modernizing the Experience: Using Technology to Enhance the

Visitor Experience" will analyze how rapidly developing technology is forcing every sector of

the industry to shift their approach and define their own experience utilizing mobile technologies

and virtual reality to set themselves apart. From airports becoming more memorable and

enjoyablewitb facilities to shop without checkout systems to hotels adopting customer-centric

models, this session will feature some of the best examples of how governments and brands are

using technology to move beyond the ordinary.

Travel industry veteran Noreen Henry, who has over 25 years leveraging innovative

technologies and who served as chief executive officer of·WayBlazer, an artificial intelligence

travel technology start-up, is a speaker on the panel. She will be joined by Kristie Powell, a

former senior technical advisor at Google and the co-founder and chief executive Founder,

Received by NSD/F ARA Regi~tration Unit 02/28/2019 12:10:31 PM


Coral, a software development startup transforming the B2B market in the Caribbean; and Ed

Limon, a Toronto-based filmmaker, producer and virtual reality expert.

Caribbean tourism practitioners, policymakers, travel professionals and strategic partners

from the public and private sectors throughout the region and internationally participate each

year in SOTIC, organized this year by the CTO in collaboration with the Bahamas Ministry of

Tourism. The conference will be preceded by business meetings on I - 2 Oct.

Sponsorship opportunities and details are available from CTO at 212-635-9530 or via

http://sotic.onecaribbean.org/sponsor.



About the Bahamas The Islands of the Bahamas have a place in the sun for everyone. Each islaJJd has its own personality and.attractions for a variety of vacation styles with some of the world's best scuba diving, fishing, sailing, boating, as well as, shopping and dining. The destination offers an easily accessible tropical getaway and provides convenience for travelers with preclearance through U.S. customs and immigration, a.nd the Bahamian dollar is on par with the U.S. dollar. Do everything or do nothing, just remember It's Better in The Bahamas. For more information call 1-800-Bahamas or visit www.Bahamas.com. Look for The Bahamas on the web on Facebook, Twitter and You Tube.

About the Caribbean Tourism Organization The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), with headquarters in Barbados, offices in New York and London and representation in Canada, is the Caribbeail's tourism development agency comprising membershiil of the region's finest countries and territories including Dutch, English, French and Spanish, as well as a myriad of private sector allied members. The CTO's vision is to position the Caribbean as the most desirable, year round, warm weather destination, and its purpose is Leai!ing Su.stainableTourism - One Sea, One Voice, One Caribbean.

Among the benefits to its members the organization provides specialized support and technical assistance in sustainable tourism development, marketing, communications, advocacy, human resource development, event planning & executi_on and research & information technology.


The CTO's New York office is located at 80 Broad St., Suite 3302, New York, NY 10004, USA: Te.I: (212) 635-9530; E-mail: [email protected];

The CTO's London office is located at Suites 52A & 53, 5th Floor AMP House, Dingwall Road

Received by NSD./F ARA Registration Unit 02/28/2019 12: 10:31 PM


Croydon CR0 2LX, England. Tel: 011 44 208 948 0057; Fax: OJ I 44 208 948 0067; E-mail: [email protected].


For more information on the Caribbean Tourism Organization, please visit www.OneCaribbean.org and follow CTO on Facebook, Twitter, Jnstagram and Linkedln to be part of the conversation.

###

-ends-



MEDIA CONTACT: Johnson JohnRose - CTO Tel: (246) 427-5242 Email: [email protected]

Theresa M. Oakes Tel: (516) 594-4100 Email: [email protected]

All of the materials are distribute,fhy iiie Caribbean Tourism Organization .,USA, Inc.; on behalf of Garibbeao Tourism -Org;mizalioo, and· additional .ioform.atioo is Oll Iii~. with. the })ep_a.~_llle'1t q( .)u_s~~e;_ Was~i_qgtQ~.,- _District of (:oJuqtbia.

/'~~\

~ "'loa.15,.0~ FOR IMMEDIATE.RELEASE

CTO REVEALS KEYNOTE SPEAKER FOR 9th TOURISM HUMAN RESOURCES CONFERENCE

SCHEDULED 28-30 NOVEMBER 2018 IN THE CAYMAN ISLANDS

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (18 Sept. 2018) - Claudia Coenjaerts, d.irector of the

International Labour Organization (!LO) decent work team and office for the Caribbean, will

deliver the keynote address at the 9th Tourism Human Resources Conference set for 28 to 30

Nov. 2018 at Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort, Grand Cayman, the Cayman Islands.

Organised by the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) in. collaboration with the

Cayman Islands Department of Tourism (CIDOT), the conference will examine development of

Received by NSD/F ARA Registration Unit 02/28/2019 12: 10:31 PM ·


the region's tourism personnel under the theme Building a Resilient, High-performing and

Sustainable Caribbean Tourism Workforce/or Global Competitiveness.

Coenjaerts' keynote speech, "The Future of Work- What Will Become the New

Normal," will address major ongoing changes in the labor force, which are anticipated to

intensify in the future. She will explore the challenges of building a high-performing, resilient

workforce and provide suggestions for rethinking engagement with human resources in the ever

changing tourism environment.

Coenjaerts brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the discussion having joined

the !LO in 1995 where she worked extensively in Africa, Asia, Europe and North America. Prior

to her current role, Coenjaerts served an 18-month tenure as president and chief executive officer

of the Fair Labor Association in Washington, D.C.

Through het work in !LO field offices, Coenjaerts has acquired a broad understanding of

!LO developmental cooperation activities as well as expertise in the areas of gender equality in

the workplace, child labour, international labour standards, workers' rights, multi-stakeholder

initiatives, employment creation, youth employment, job creation in fragile statt:s, social a_nd

labour compliance in supply chains in apparel and footwear; electronics and agriculture.

A· Belgian national, Coenjaerts holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts in

Sociology from the Catholic University of Leuven in Belgium.

The 9th Tourism Human Resources Conference comes at a time when the Caribbean

faces increased global competition in the high-tech, innovation-driven industry, and amidst

increasing calls for a total rethink of the way tourism leaders engage with the workforce. The

event will bring together tourism practitioners from the public and private sectors, human

resource professionals, tourism educators/trainers and consultants as well as tourism and

hospitality students of tertiary institutions.

Delegates will share strategies and best practices on issues affecting the tourism and

hospitality sectors, provide updated information on various aspects of tourism development,

enhance skills and participate in professional networking opportunities.

This year's three-day intensive programme includes two highly interactive and practical

Master Classes facilitated by knowledgeable and dynamic subject experts. One Master Class will

focus on unlocking the potential of employees and amplifying performance across the workplace



by using a strengths approach, while the second Master Class will delve into the role of Human

Resources professionals in building a company's brand.

for further details on the conference - sponsored by Dart Enterprises Ltd. of the Cayman

Islands - visit https:/ /www .onecaribbean.org/events-calendar/tourism-hr-conf erence-2018/.

About the Cayman Islands . Located 480 miles south of Miami in the vibrant tranquillity of western Caribbean, this trio of tiny islands is a premier destination for discriminating travellers, divers, honeymooners and families. World-renowned for its idyllic beaches and recognised as a sophisticated, diverse and memorable tourist destination, the Cayman Islands offers spectacular recreational opportunities along with warm, impeccable service.To learn more about the Cayman Islands, please go to visitcaymanislands.com or www.divecayman.ky or call your local travel agent.

From large-group trips and business-focused getaways to ultra-luxurious escapes and multi-generational family vacations, the Cayman Islands provides every element needed to keep guests coming back for more. With an abundance of world-class dining options, a host of adventure activities - including snorkelling, diving,jet skiing, caving, and nature trails- and a variety of meeting spaces for groups large and small, the Cayman Islands is well-poised to host any type of traveller or special occasion.

About the Caribbean Tourism Organization The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), with headquarters in Barbados, offices in New York and London and representation in Canada, is the Caribbean's tourism development agency comprising membership of the region's finest countries and territories including Dutch, Engli~h. French and Spanish, as well as a myriad of private se.ctor allied members. The CTO's vision is to position the Caribbean as the most desirable, year round, warm weather destination, and its purpose is Leading Sustainable Tourism - One Sea, One Voice, One Caribbean.

Among the benefits to its members the organization provides ·specialized support and technical assistance in sustainable tourism development, marketing, communications, advocacy, human resource development, event planning & execution and research & information technology.

The CTO's Headquarters is located at Baobab Tower, Warrens, St. Michael, Barbados BB · 22026; Tel: (246) 427-5242; Fax: (246) 429-3065; E-mail: [email protected]; . --- - --

The CTO's New York office is located at 80 Broad St., Suite 3302, New York, NY 10004, USA: Tel: (212) 635"9530; E-mail: [email protected];

The CTO's London office is located at Suites 52A & 53, 5th Floor AMP House, Dingwall Road Croydon CR0 2LX, England. Tel: 011 44 208 948 0057; Fax: 01144208 948 0067; E"rttaH: [email protected].

CTO has representation in Canada; Tel: (905) 857-1986; Email: [email protected]. ' .

For more information on the Caribbean Tourism Organization, please visit www.OneCaribbean.org and follow CTO on Facebook, Twitter, lnstagram and Linkedln to be part of the conversation.



###

-ends-



MEDIA CONTACT Johnson Johnrose Caribbean Tourism Organization (246) 427-5242 [email protected]

· All oft!Je materials a.re distributed !iY the Caribbean tourlsiu · Organization ·usA,. In•~ OD behalf .of Caribbean Tourism Org~nization, and .additional information is 0'1 file with the Depa,:tmeiJtof Jnstlce, Wasliingion; District of Columbia •.. ,_, _,,,' ; .-,,,_ -. . . .. •'. ,. ,, •' •. : '._;: _.• .;· ..•. - .- .


SAINT LUCIA VOTED CHAIR OF THE CARIBBEAN TOURISM ORGANIZATION Minister of Tourism Dominic Fedee elected unopposed for two-year term

NASSAU, Bahamas (2 October, 2018) - Saint Lucia has been voted in as chair of the

Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), with the election today of its minister of tourism

Dominic Fedee, ending the two-year term of the Bahamas, which ascended to the position in

Barbados in 20 I 6.

His election took phice late this evening at the Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island where

the CTO held its annual general meeting ahead of the official opening of the State of the Tourism

Industry Conference (SOTIC).

Following his election Mr. Fedee said he was humbled and proud that his colleagues had

placed their trust in him. The new chairman also stated: "We have an opportunity to advance the

strength of our collective purpose. We have to spare no effort to use our collaboration at the CTO

level to help to advance the wider integration movement and the CTO can be seen in the same ilk

as West Indies cricket and the University of the West Indies as success stories to unite the

Caribbean further.

''The Caribbean is one of the strongest and one of the most iconic and aspirational travel

brands in the world but also it is the most underutilised and the opportunity exists for us to



ensure that we utilise the strength of the brand for the collective good of the destinations of the

Caribbean."

The Saint Lucian minister has named Tiffany Howard, the acting chief executive officer

of the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority, as chairman of the CTO board of directors, since,

according to the CTO constitution, the board chairman and the chairman of the Council of

Ministers and Commissioners of Tourism must come from the same member country.

In addition to the election of the chairman, vice chairs were elected to serve on the

executive committee of the board of directors to represent various sub-groups - Curacao,

representing the D_utch Caribbean; Haiti representing the French Caribbean; Bahamas and

Jamaica, representing the independent Caribbean Community countries and the Cayman Islands

representing the British overseas territories. This committee will be completed with

representatives from the private sector.

Today's vote was in keeping with the CTO constitution which mandates that elections must be

held every two years and that the chairman cannot serve consecutive terms.

This year's conference ai the Atlantis Paradise Island Resort is organised in collaboration with the

l:laham.is' ministry of tourism and is sponsored by the Martinique's Aime Cesaire International Airport,

Cititech Solutions, JetBlue and Delta Air Lines, with support from American Airlines, Bahamas Air,

Caribbean Airlines and lnterCaribbean Airways.

To view a short video clip of the new chairman, please click on the following link:

https://bit.ly/2xPxQzB, and for more information on SOTIC, visit www.sotic.onecaribbean.org.

-ENDS-

About the Bahamas The Islands of the Bahamas have a place in the sun for everyone. Each island has its own personality and attractions for a variety of vacation styles with some of the world's best scuba diving, fishing, sailing, boating, as well as, shopping and dining. The destination offers an easily accessible tropical getaway and provides convenience for travelers with preclearance through U.S. customs and immigration, and the Bahamian dollar is on par with the U.S. dollar. Do evetything or do nothing, just remember It's Better in The Bahamas. For more information call 1-800-Elahamas or visit www.8ahamas.com. Look for The Bahamas on the web on Facebook, Twitter and You Tube.

About the Caribbean Tourism Organization The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), with headquarters in Barbados, offices in New York and London and representation i_n Canada, is the Caribbean's tourism development agency comprising membership of the region's finest countries and territories including Dutch, English,



French and Spanish, as well as a myriad of private sector allied members. The CTO's vision is to position the Caribbean as the most desirable, year round, warm weather destination, and its purpose is Leading Sustainable Tourism - One Sea, One Voice, One Caribbean. Among the benefits to its members the organization provides specialized support and technical assistance in sustainable tourism development, marketing, communications, advocacy, human resource development, event planning & execution and research & information technology.

The CTO's Headquarters is located at Baobab Tower, Warrens, St. Michael,' Barbados BB 22026; Tel: (246) 427-5242; Fax: (246) 429-3065; E-mail: [email protected].

The CTO's New York office is located at 80 Broad St., Suite 3302, New York, NY 10004, USA: Tel: (212) 635-9530; E-inail: [email protected].

The CTO's London office is located at Suites 52A & 53, 5th Floor AMP House, Dingwall Road Croydon CR0 2LX, England. Tel: 011 44,208 948 0057; Fax: 011 44 208 948 0067; E-mail: [email protected].

CTO h;is representation in Canada; Tel: (905) 857-1986; Email: [email protected].

-ends-

Received by NSD/FARA Registration Unit 02/28/2019 12: I 0:31 PM




.. ' .. . •' -, .. . - :: AU oftbe materi;lls are distributed'bytbe Caribbean Tourism Organizatiqn · USA:, Inc~ on 'bebal~ of Caribbean• Tourism Organization, and ad<litio11al information is on file with the

· Department of ,Justi~ Wa.~biilgton, Qistrict of Co)Dmbia: .


FIVE ALLIED MEMBERS ELECTED TO ROUND OUT CTO BOARD OF DIRECTORS

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (IO October, 2018) - Five candidates of diverse backgrounds out of

a record number 13 were elected to represent the allied membership on the Caribbean Tourism

Organization's (CTO) board of directors for the 2018-2020 term. The elections were held on 5

Oct. 2018 during the CTO's State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) held in the

Bahamas.

The five representatives elected to CTO's Board of Directors for the two-year term are

Barry Brown of AFAR Media, Jule Guaglardi ofZelman Style, Jacquelinefohnson of Global

Bridal Group, Barbara Magro of Questex Travel Group and John Lawrence Spears of The

Concept Farm.

'This is the first time we have had more than eight people interested in holding an allied

representative position on the CTO Board of Directors. This reflects an overwhelming interest in

the industry and contributing to the development of our region," said Sylma Brown, director of

CTO USA. "Over the years, the allied members have used their talent and resources to

demonstrate their commitment to supporting the growth of the Caribbean tourism industry. We

look forward to the impact they will have over the next two years.



"Notable this year, is that without exception all 13 candidates vying for the five seats

pledged their support to the work of the organisation. In the coming weeks, 1 will contact each

person to determine how we can utilise their considerable talents on projects for the region,"

added Brown.

Barry Brown, an allied member for 17 years, is an advertising and publishing

professional who has been connected to the region for over 25 years. He also served and

continues to serve on the bo~d of the CTO Foundation and was on the Audrey Palmer Hawks

Scholarship Foundati.on Board for many years. Brown has prioritize<! the education of the next

generation of tourism leaders and worked with the CTO to develop the Caribbean Youth

Congress. To inspire and reverse declining allied membership, promote advocacy and drive

Caribbean tourism are Brown's goals as part of the board of directors.

Having spent much of the past 25 years writing and photographing features for 12

. different publications to showcase the Caribbean, Jule Guaglardi demonstrates her extensive

knowledge of the Caribbean market by promoting the region through her editorial outlets.

Currently, she operates a high-end design firm in Florida which employs a talented Caribbean

design team, which makes up more th.an 50 percent of the staff. Guaglardi st_arted to expand her

work into the Caribbean by re-designing prestigious buildings as well as helping to facilitate

Florida building codes in the Caribbean to hurricane standards in an effort to help ensure a more

economically stable and sustainable tourism product across the region. Guaglardi plans to open a

Caribbean office in order to work alongside local contractors and new rising Caribbean design

students eager to learn necessary building standards along with the fundamentals of fine design.

Jacqueline Johnson is a pioneer in the publishing industry as the only minority to head

up her own media company. As an expatriate, Johnson believes she owes it to the region to put

her extensive networking resources to work to improve the quality of life for people in the

Caribbean through tourism. During her more tha.n 20 years as an allied member, Johnson served

on the CTO Board and on the executive committee and has been Chairman of the CTO

Foundation which provides scholarships to Caribbean students, and donates a substantial amount

of her time to Caribbean Week and other CTO events. For her contributions and involvement in

the Caribbean, CTO awarded Johnson the Outstanding Service A ward. Johnson plans to create

programmes and provide market research to contribute to the development of Caribbean

tourism.



Barbara Magro has worked in advertising sales for premier food and travel magazines

in the United States and Australia and is currently the Florida & Caribbean Director of Business

Development with Questex Media Group for Luxury Travel Advisor, Travel Agent print and

digital products, Travel Agent University e-leaming and loyalty platfonn along with Travel

Industry Exchange and Ultra Summit leisure events. During the last two years on the CTO Board

of Di.rectors sh.e has given a generous amount of money to promote CTO' s travel agent trade

shows, worked with Tourism Cares and ran free banners ads on how to donate to hurricane relief

funds during the hurricanes of2017 along with other forward-thinking actions. Magro plans to

continuously give the Caribbean the exposure it needs to the travel trade through the various

opportunities that occur within her organisation.

With 17 years of tourism experience, John Lawrence Speers has developed strategic

marketing plans, communication strategies and digital innovations across many creative

platforms for tourism boards in the Caribbean and other destinations. Having a particular passion

for sustainable tourism, Speers recently worked in the hinterlands of Guyana with the indigenous

people, creating deeper connections to ensure local cultural traditions prevail and flourish. Speers

plans on using his intemat.ional marketing expertise to connect Caribbean communities both

digitally and physically with travellers from North America and beyond.

-ENDS-

About the Caribbean Tourism Organization The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), with headquarters in Barbados, offices in New York and London and representation in Canada, is the Caribbean's tourism developme.nt agency comprising membership of the region's finest countries and territories including Dutch, English, French and Spanish, as well as a myriad of private sector allied members. The CTO's vision is to position the Caribbean as the most desirable, year round, warm weather destination, and its purpose is Leading Sustainable Tourism• One Sea, One Voice, One Caribbean.


The CTO's Headquarters is located at Baobab Tower, Warrens, St .. Michael, Barbados l3B 22026; Tel: (246) 427-5242; Fax: (246) 429-3065; E-mail: [email protected].

The CTO's New York office is located at 80 Broad St., Suite 3302, New York, NY 10004, USA: Tel: (212) 635-9530; E-mail: [email protected].



The CTO's London office is located at Suites 52A & 53, 5th Floor AMP House, Dingwall Road, Croydon CR0 2LX, England. Tel: 011 44 208 948 0057; Fax: 011 44 208 948 0067; E-mail: [email protected].


For more information on the Caribbean Tourism Organization, please visit www.OneCaribbean.org and follow CTO on Facebook, Twitter, lnstagram and Linkedln to be part of the conversation. · · · · · · · · · ·

###





• ' ·-· ,· "" ~-. • , • -., • • • - :-, ' -. • • - • .- ' • " < ', • •

All of the .materials are distributed. by 'the Caribbean Tonrism · Organization . USA, Inc.,. o~ •·behalf. .of. Caribbean · Tol!rism ·

.· Organization, and ·additional . inforinaliofi .is on fiie with the .Pepartk~i,t 9f~uitjce,Wllsliiilgt.;n, l>i;tri~t ~ic~lumbia;. . . .·


CTO SECRETARY GENERAL SAYS COMPLACENCY PUTS CARIBBEAN PEOPLE, ECONOMIES At RISK

- Hugh Riley raised concerns during UNESCO's tsunami awareness panel in Paris, France -

PARIS, France (24 Oct. 2018)- Secretary general of the Caribbean Tourism

Organization (CTO) Hugh Riley has called on Caribbean states to take tsunami preparedness

seriously, stating to do otherwise would put the people and regional economies at risk.

Speaking in Paris, France; during a discussion organised by the United Nations

Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to raise awareness of the threats

posed by tsunamis, Riley insisted that Caribbean countries risked paying the price for

complacency.

He stressed with the Caribbean being comprised mainly oflow-lying states, and with

most tourism assets and hotel investments located at or near coastal areas, the tourism sector is

extremely vulnerable to the threat of tsunamis.

"Tourism is the main economic driver of the Caribbean, representing 80 per cent of the

region's gross domestic product and more than one million jobs sowe cannot ignore a tsunami

risk," he told fellow panellists and the wider audience, which included representatives from

Grenada, Saint Lucia and St. Vincent & the Grenadines.


Received by NSD/F ARA Registration Unit 02/28/2019 12: 10:3 l PM

"Complacency puts us in real danger and we must raise the Caribbean's voice by

advocating for our members during this important global forum," he added.

The event was being held in advance of World Tsunami Awareness Day on 5 Nov. 2018.

The secretary general noted that the region had experienced 11 tsunamis in the past, the most

recent of which occurred in 2010, and six between 1902 and 1997.

He suggested that because there has been no "recent" impact on the region, tsunamis are

not considered an imminent threat, therefore, they are not given sufficient attention.

He called for an increase in tsunami awareness and sensitisation of the tourism sector and

the wider Caribbean community, as well as support for training by regional institutions and

countries to develop preparedness and response protocols. '

"The CTO recognises that tsunami preparedness is critical, which includes well

established and tested response protocols which will ultimately reduce loss of life and economic

damage. We also need to enhance collaboration with countries recently and frequently impacted

by tsunami hazards in order to develop best practices."

Riley highlighted several CTO members' tsunami readiness initiatives, including

Anguilla, the first English-speaking Caribbean island to be recognised as "tsunami ready" in

,September 201 I and has maintained certification status. Since then the British Virgin Islands and

St. Kitts and Nevis have received similar recognition, all having established emergency operating

centres, national tsunami plans, public outreach and alert systems, public service information

programmes and tsunami preparedness and response protocols.

The high-level panel was organised by UNESCO's Intergovernmental Oceanographic

Commission (IOC) and the United.Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UN/SDR) to

discuss policies and practices to reduce tsunami risks in countries highly dependent on tourism

revenue.

The meeting opened with a minute's silence in memory of the 2,000 confirmed dead and

680 officially missing in the tsunami and earthquake which struck_ Indonesia on 28 Sept. 2018.

The double disaster left almost 70,000 people homeless artd 11,000 injured in the Indonesi.an

cities of Palu and Donggala in Central Sulawesi.

About the Caribbean Tourism Organization The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), with headquarters in Barbados, offices in New York and London and representatio·n in Canada, is the Caribbean' s tourism development agency comprising membership of the region's finest countries and territories including Dutch, English, French and Spanish, as well as a myriad of private sector allied members. The CTO's vision is to position the Caribbean as the most desirable, year round, warm weather destination, and its purpose is Leading Sustainable Tourism - One Sea, One Voice, One Caribbean.



Among the benefits to its members the organization provides specialized support and technical assistance in sustainable tourism development, marketing, communications, advocacy, human

. resource development, event planning & execution and research & information technology.

The CTO's Headquarters is located at Baobab Tower, Warrens, St. Michael, Barbados BB 22026; Tel: (246) 427-5242; Fax: (246) 429-3065; E-mail: [email protected].


The CTO's London office is located at Suites 52A & 53, 5th Floor AMP House, Dingwall Road, Croydon CR0 2LX, England. Tel: 01144208 948 0057; Fax: 01144208 948 0067; E-mail: [email protected].


For more information on the Caribbean Tourism Organization, please visit www.OneCaribbean.org and follow CTO on Facebook, Twitter, Jnstagram and Linkedln to be part of the conversation. ·

###



MEDIA CONTACT: johnson JohnRose - CTO Tel: (246) 427-5242 Email: [email protected]

Theresa M. Oa.kes Tel: (516) 594-4100 Email: [email protected]

_'. ,·. . . ' ' ., . . All of the. materia~ are.di~ribute.d bf the Car(bbeal! To_urjs_m Organiz!!tioo US,\,; ll!~~ ~ii 'behajf of C~ribbeao tourism · Organization, and, additionaHnformation, is on file with -the __ Departmenf of Justice, Washington; Distritt of Cl)lumbia, . .

. . . ' .. ' '.


BRAND SPECIALIST SAYS HR CAN UNLOCK A STRONGER CARIBBEAN TOURISM IDENTITY

- Managing Director of Blueprint Creative, Barbados, Ron Johnson will deliver masterclass on 'Branding and HR Sitting /n a Tree' at CTO 's 9th Tourism HR conference

in the Cayman Islands from 28-30 November 2018-

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (26 Oct. 2018)-A more globally competitive Caribbean

tourism brand and stronger industry await if the power ofhum_an resource management is.

harnessed to enhance branding. That is the key message that Ron Johnson, the .managing director

ofBlueprint Creative, Barbados, will deliver during the Caribbean Tourism Organization

(CTO)'s 9th Tourism Human Resources Conference in the Cayman Islands frmn 28-30

November, 2018. The conference will be held under the theme 'Building a Resilient, High

performing and Sustainable Caribbean Tourism Workforce for Global Competitiveness'.

Johnson will present a masterclass on 'Branding and HR Sitting in a Tree' on Friday 30

November.

"Taking an approach that branding starts on the inside ofthe organisation - not the

outside - and having your branding and HR teams work more closely together, represents an



opportunity for Caribbean tourism stakeholders to build stronger brands and stronger businesses,

which can lead to Caribbean tourism being more competitive on the world stage," said Johnson.

Johnson and his team of brand specialists at Blueprint Create work with chiefexecµtives,

marketing teams and human resources departments to help solve their brand-related business

challenges. He ha_s advised clients in several industries, including energy, banking, insurance,

convenience retailing, accounting and security. At the conference he will engage with_ educators,

trainers, human resource managers and consultants, students, Caribbean tourism practitioners,

policymakers, tourism development agencies and academicians.

The branding specialist, who describes HR professionals as 'branding superheroes in

disguise', said it's important to get the message across at the macro and micro levels.

"The potential gains for tourism include the ability for individual organisations in the

industry to build stronger brands and stronger businesses; and collectively, the ability to build a

much stronger industry and be able to compete more effectively on the global market," Johnson

said.

He warns that the consequences of not heeding the tnessage could mean falling behind

the rest of the world in areas such as branding, human resources, customer experience and

overall competitiveness.

In the masterclass at the conference, Johnson will explain why branding must begin

internally.

"Even the most clever advertising campaigns can be derailed by disengaged employees

delivering poor customer service," said Johnson. "Companies want customers to love their

brand_s, butthat won't happen unless their employees love the brand first. It can be very

dangerous for companies to try to build a strong customer-facing brand when they have a weak

employee-facing brand."

This will be one of two masterclasses at this year's three-day intensive programme of

activities, with the other focusing on unlocking the potential of employees and amplifying

performance across the workplace by using a strengths approach.

The CTO's 9th Tourism Human Resources Conference seeks to provide an exciting and

educational forum for human resource professionals to gain new knowledge and acquire the

necessary skills to help them achieve excellent performance in their organisations. It also

discusses pertinent issues impacting on, and relating to, the human resource element of tourism



in the region; exposes human resource practitioners to good tourism pract_ices in a tourism

environment, and provides an opportunity for professional networking.

The conference is sponsored by the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism and Dart, the

Cayman Islands-headquartered global organisation wh_ose portfolio of companies include real

estate, hospitality, retail, entertainment, finance and biotech

"We believe this conference will help re-energise Caribbean Tourism HR professionals,

inspiring them to focus on people initiatives which support an engaged, high performing and

resilient workforce," Juliet Du Feu, Dart's senior vice president of human resources, said.

For further details on the conference, including how to register, visit

https://www.onecaribbean.org/events-calendar/tourism-hr-conference-2018/. And for a welcome

message from minister of tourism Moses Kirkconnell, click here.

About The Cayman Islands Located 48() miles south of Miami in the vibrant tranquillity of western Caribbean, this trio of tiny islands is a premier destination for discriminating travellers, divers, honeymooners and families. World-renowned for its idyllic beaches and recognised as a sophisticated, diverse and memorable tourist destin_ation, the Cayman l_slands offers spectacular recreational opportunities along with warm, impeccable service. To learn more about the Cayman Islands, please go to visitcaymanislands.com or www.divecayman.ky or call your local travel agent.

From large-group trips and business-focused getaways to ultra-luxurious escapes and· multi-generational family vacations, the Cayman Islands provides every element needed to keep guests coming back for more. With an abundance of world-class dining options, a host of adventure activities - including snorkelling, diving, jet skiing, caving, and nature trails O and a variety of meeting spaces for groups large and small, the Cayman Islands is well-poised to host any type of traveller or special occasion.

About the Caribbean Tourism Organization The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), with headquarters in Barbados, offices in New York and .London and representation in Canada, is the Caribbean' s tourism development agency comprising membership ofthe region's finest countries and territories including Dutch, English, French and Spanish, as well as a myriad of private sector allied members. The CTO's vision is to position the Caribbean as the most desirable, year round, warm weather destination, and its purpose is Leading Sustainable Tourism - One Sea, One Voice, One Caribbean.

Among the benefits to its members the organization provides specialized support and technical assistance in sustainable tourism development, marketing, communications, advocacy, human resource development, event planning and execution and research and information technology.








###



MEDIA CONTACT: Johnson Joh.nRose - CTO Tel: (246) 427-5242 Email: [email protected]

4Itof t1te·inat~ri~lsare dlstrlbiited by0

theCliribbeilil Tounsm :organization USA, Inc;;.: on .behalf of Caribbean ·Tourism·

. Organiz'!tion,: and a(jditional information js on filnvitb the. Department ofJusiicy, Wasbi)!gton, Distri~ of tolul)!~i•i .··. •


ONE OF NEW YORK'S FINEST WINE, SPIRITS AND FOOD FESTIVALS TO GET A SPECIAL CARIBBEAN TWIST

- For the first time ever, CTO member countries will participate in Toast o/Brooklyn, while CTO Foundation will launch an auction at the 10 November event in Williamsburg -

NEW YORK, NY (29 October 2018) - There will be a special Caribbean twist this year

to one of New York's finest wine, spirits and food festivals, the Toast of Brooklyn, which will be

held on Saturday 10 November at the futuristic William Vale Hotel in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

The organisers have revealed that a special feature of Toast of Brooklyn 2018 will be the

promotion of Caribbean cuisine and tourism to the approximately 3,000 attendees, adding a

unique Caribbean twist to a mainstream audience while maintaining '!fl atmosphere of

sophistication.

The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) has been working with the organisers to

secure the participation of member countries, which, at no cost to them, will be provided with a

station from which their chefs will share samples oftheit signature dishes, although they will be

required to pay a small fee should they wish to distribute promotional materials.

In additio.n, the CTO Foundation, which provides scholarships and grants to Caribbean

nationals pursuing studies in tourism and related subjects, will launch an auction including



Caribbean holidays at Toast of Brooklyn to help raise funds for the scholarship programme. The

organisers have also chosen the CTO Foundation as one of the beneficiaries.

"Our choice of the CTO Foundation as a beneficiary of the I I th Annual Toast of

Brooklyn event is in keeping with our objective of identifying organisatiol)s whose core

principles are based on promoting academic achievement and leadership," said Toast of

Brooklyn founder Edmon Braithwaite.

'The promotion of these ideals is now more profound after witnessing last year's na.tural

di.sasters in the Caribbean. It is admirable that the CTO Foundation is committed to nurturing the

young achievers of today to become the leaders of tomorrow in a very challenging and dynamic

hospitality industry. We also believe that concomitant to our support of the CTO Foundation is

the promotion of the rich, diverse Caribbean culture to the absorbing Brooklyn audience. We

look forward to a great event and relationship."

This expression of support to the foundation clearly demonstrates that companies and

individuals from the Caribbean Diaspora are eager to contribute to its ideals by leveraging their

contacts and providing access to their events in the marketplace to assist the CTO Foundation in

meeting its objective, according to Sylma Brown who heads the CTO' New York office.

"This is an excellent opportunity for the CTO and the foundation to liaise more directly '

with a young, upscale demographic with the propensity and means to travel to the

Caribbean. This is also an opportunity for us to invite them to support our activities during

Caribbean Week New York," Brown said.

"Thanks tci Mr. Braithwaite for extending the invitation to the foundation and providing

us with one additional means of raising funds and promoting the region."

Now in its 11 th year, Toast of Brooklyn featmes a combination of global wines and spirits

producers along with small batch boutique wineries and craft spirits. Exotic cuisine from world

tourism hotspots, renowned chefs from the Food Network and local artisans also participate in

this one-of-its-kind experience that capitalises on Brooklyn's unique cultural diversity.

For further information on Toast of Brooklyn visit www.thetoastofbrooklyn.com or email

[email protected].

-ENDS-

Aboutthe Caribbean Tourism Organization The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), with headquarters in Barbados, offices in New York and London and representation in Canada, is the Caribbean' s tourism developrnent agency comprising membership of the region's finest countries and territories including Dutch, English, French and Spanish, as well as a myriad of private sector allied members. The CTO's vision is to



position the Caribbean as the most desirable, year round, warm weather destination, and its purpose is Leading Sustainable Tourism" One Sea, One Voice, One Caribbean.

Among the benefits to its members the organization provides specialized support and technical assistance in sustainable tourism development, marketing, communications, advocacy, human· resource development, event planning & execution and research & information technology.


The CTO's New York office is tocated at 80 Broad St., Suite 3302, New York, NY 10004, USA: Tel: (212) 635-9530; E-mail: [email protected].

The CTO's London office is located at Suites 52A & 53, 5th Fioor AMP House, Dingwall Road, Croydon CR0 2LX, England. Tel: 011 44 208 948 0057; Fax: 01144208 948 0067; E-mail: [email protected].



###




• All of tile m•terials a~ distributed by;tlie Carlbh.eair tourism• •· Organization U&A, Inc., on behalf of. Carjbbean Tourism

' OrganJz;,tjil!l, ·!!•JI ij_dditici11ai i!lfOi"iruition if on file wiili the · . . ~p~~~ent-Of JUsti-;~;W8Shingto~,,•J?iS~ric~-::orc~~un;ah~- ;·

FOR IMMEDiATE RELEASE

PANEL TO DISCUSS WHETHER GANJA AND MEDICINAL HERBS OFFER THE CARIBBEAN A NEW PATH TO WELLNESS

- CTO's Tourism Youth Congress winner, Jamaican student Bryanna Hylton, will join the 1 November Facebook Live discussion to launch Caribbean Tourism Month-

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (29 October 2018)- Bryanna Hylton; the Westwood High

School, Jamaica student who won this year's Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) Tourism

Youth Congress, will join the CTO' s programme of activities for Caribbean Tourism Month

(CTM) which is observed during the month of November.

The 17-year-old Hylton will join an online panel for the Thursday, I November launch of

the month of activities linked to the year of rejuvenation and w~llness. The panellists will debate

whether marijuana and/or medicinal plants offer the Caribbean a new path to wellness.

The remainder of the panel include the CTO's secretary general, Hugh Riley; Antigua & .

Barbuda's ambassador to Ethiopia and member of the Caribbean Comfllunity's commission on

marijuana L. Franklin "Ras Franki" Francis; Jerry Rappaport, the president of the Grenada Hotel

& Tourism Association; Canadian journalist Adrian Brijbassi and Barbadian pollster Peter

Wickham.



The hour-long discussion, which begins at 11 :00 a.m. Eastern Caribbean Time (11 :00

a.m. in New York, 10:00 a.Ill. in Jamaica & 3 :00 p.m. in London), can be viewed on the CTO's

Facebook page, www.facebook.com/CaribbeanTourismOrganization/.

Hylton was one of a record 18 secondary school students who participated in the Youth

Congress at the State of the Tourism Industry Conference in the Bahamas earlier this month. Her

presentations focused on designing and creating a new Wellness and rejuvenation tourism

product or service offering, which has a Caribbean flair, feel and/or touch. She emerged winner

ahead ofSt. Maarten's Kiara Meyers, who placed second, and Caroline Pain of Martinique, who

was third.

Thursday's discussion is one ofa number of activities planned by the CTO in observance.

of Caribbean Tourism Month, a period during whi~h attention is placed on the region's most

important attribute, its people, as well as the product, profile and partnerships. Other activities

include: (

• A month-long contest to determine the Caribbean wellness ambassador, with support

from the Grenada Tourism Authority

• A tweet chat on Monday 19 November at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Caribbean Time

during which Caribbean and international students - as well as others - pursuing studies in

tourism and related subjects get to quiz the secretary general

• A social extravaganza on Tuesday 20 November at 11 :00 a.m. Eastern Caribbean Time

during which CTO member countries will showcase their tourism wellness offerings on

Facebook Live.

CTO member countries will also organise activities in observance of Caribbean Tourism

Month, which is meant to provide an opportunity for everyone in the industry to open their doors

to citizens and to help them understand and appreciate tourism, to help them feel that they too are

pl!rt of the industry, and they have a role to play in its growth and development.

-ENDS-

About the Caribbean Tourism Organization The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CiO), with headquarters in Barbados, offices in New York and London and representation in Canada, is the Caribbean' s tourism development agency comprising membership of the region's finest countries and territories including Dutch, English, French and Spanish, as well as a myriad of private sector allied merribers. The CTO's vision is to position the Caribbean as the most desirable, year round, warm weather destination, and its purpose is Leading Sustainable Tourism - One Sea, One Voice, One Caribbean.

Received py NSD/FARA Registration Unit 02/28/2019 12:10:31 PM


Among the benefits to its members the organization provides specialized support and technical assistance in sustainable tourism development, marketing, communications, advocacy, human resource development, event planning & execution and research & information.technology.



The CTO's London office is located at Suites 52A & 53, 5th Floor AMP House, Dingwall Road, Croydon CR0 2LX, England. Tel: 01144208 948 0057; Fax: 011 44 208 948 0067; E-mail: [email protected].

CTO has representation in Canac!a; Tel: (905) 857-1986; Email: [email protected].

For more information on the Caribbean Tourism Organization, please visit www.OneCaribbean.org and follow CTO on Facebook, Twitter, lnstagram and Linkedln to be part of the conversation.

###



MEDIA CONTACT: Joh.nson Jo.h.nRose - CTO Tel: (246) 427-5242 Email: [email protected]


.·Ali of the 'l)aterials are d\stributed liy tbe.Caribbe_an Tourism. - .Or'ga:oizati911- lfS~t hi;c.., ~~- beblllf of"· Caribbe~o T(Jilrism ,

, • Organization, and additiona! . information is QD. file witlt the · .})epartinent of Justice, Witshiligt90, District of Colu1Dbia. .


THIS BLIND SPOT IS LIMITING CARIBBEAN TOURISM POTENTIAL

- Gallup certified strengths coach to reveal secret to unlock the fall potential of Caribbean tourism at CTO's gin Tourism HR conference in the

Cayman Islands from 28-30 November 2018-

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (2 Nov. 2018)-A secret to unlock the full potential of

Caribbean tourism may be hidden in plain sight. That is according to Tara Tvedt-Pearson, a

certified strengths coach at Gallup, who will present a solution at the Caribbean Tourism

Organization (CTQ)'s 9th Tourism Human Resources Conference in the Cayman Islands from

28-30 November, 2018.

"Our innate talents and strengths represent our most direct path to our success. The

problem, however, is that most people can't accurately identify their own strengths and therefore

can't intentionally use them," said Tvedt-Pearson.

The message will come as an integral component of the conference theme, 'Building a

Resilient, High-performing & Sustainable Caribbean Tourism Workforce for Global

Competitiveness'. Tvedt-Pearson will present a masterclass on 'Discover Your Stteilgths,

Unlock Your Potential' on Thursday 29 November.



"Unfortunately, when it comes to people development, most organisations across most

cultures are operating from a mindset of weakness fixing .. We identify areas of improvement and

create annua.l development improvement plans for our employees even though we hired them for

their. strengths!" said Tvedt-Pearson.

Tvedt-Pearson has a background in human resources, psychology, and certification in

project management wh.ich brings an ideal blend and balance to her coaching. Her work focuses

on performance and by agreeing on measurements of success upfront, a cleat scope and strategy

is created for arriving at success.

"To help individuals and organisations worldwide harness the power of strengths, global

management consulting company Gallup created the Clifton StrengthsFinder, an assessment that

helps people discover and describe their talents. By revealing the ways in which each individual

mostnaturally thinks, feels, and behaves, the assessment can help people identify and build on

the areas in which they have the most potential to grow and succeed," said Tvedt-Pearson.

Participants in the session will have the opportunity to discover their individual innate

talents and the contributions they bring to their organisations, as well as understand what impact

a strengths-based development approach -a "people solution" - can have to their business and

bottom line. As a GaHup certified strengths coach, Tvedt-Pearson regularly helps individuals,

leaders, teams, and organisations link their innate talen.ts to specific goals and objectives,

facilitate growth and development areas, and boost engagement.

The end goa_I is building a sustained competitive advantage. "Companies within the

tourism sector that focus on measuring and managing employee engagement can with.stand tough

economic times and gain the competitive advantage that will keep them moving forward," she

said.

The CTO 9th Tourism Human Resources Conference seeks to provide an exciting and

educational forum for human resource professionals to gain new knowledge and acquire the

necessary skills to help them achieve excellent performance in their organizations. It also

discusses pertinent issues impacting on, a.ncl relating to the human resource element of tourism in

the region; exposes human resource practitioners to good tourism practices in a tourism

environment, and provides an opportunity for professional networking.

The conference is sponsored by the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism and Dart, the

Cayman Islands-headquartered global organisation whose portfolio of companies include real

estate, hospitality, retail, entertainment, finance and biotech



For further details on the conference, including .how to register, visit

https://www.onecaribbean.org/events-calendar/tourism-hr-conference•20l 8/. And for a welcome

message from minister of tourism Moses Kirkconnell, click here.

About The Cayman Islands Located 480 miles south of Miami in the vibrant tranquillity ofwestem Caribbean, this trio of tiny islands is a premier destination for discriminating travellers, divers, honeymooners and families. World-renowned for its idyllic beaches and recognised as a sophisticated, diverse and memorable tourist destination, the Cayman Islands offers spectacular recreational opportunities along with warm, impeccable service. To learn more about the Ca:yrnafl Isl.ands, please go to visitcaymanislands.com or www.divecayman.ky or call your local travel agent.

From large-group trips and business•focused getaways to ultra-luxurious escapes and multi-generational family vacations, the Cayman Islands provides every element needed to keep guests coming back for more. With an abundance of world-class dining options, a host of adventure activities - including snorkelling, diving, jet skiing, caving, and nature trails - and a variety of meeting spaces for groups large and small, the Cayman Islands is well,poised to hpst any type of traveller or special occasion.

About the Caribbean Tourism Organization The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), with headquarters in Barbados, offices in New

· York and. Lol)don a.nd representation in Canada, is the Caribbean' s tourism development agency comprising membership of the region's finest countries and territories including Dutch, English, French and Spanish, as well as a myriad of private sector allied members. TheCfO's vision is to position the Caribbean as the most desirable, year round, warm weather destination, and its purpose is Leading Sustainable Tourism - One Sea, One Voice, One Caribbean.

Among the benefits to its members the organization provides specialized support and technical assistance in sustainable tourism development, marketing, communications, advocacy, hum.an resource development, everit planning & execution and researc.h & information technology.

The CTO's Headquarters is located at Baobab Tower, Warrens, St. Michael, Barbados BB 22026; Tel: (246) 427·5242; Fax: (246) 429-3065; E-mail: [email protected];


The CTO's London office is located at Suites 52A & 53, 5th Floor AMP House, Dingwall Road Croydon CR0 2LX, England. Tel: 011 44 208 948 0057; Fax: 011.44 208 948 0067; E-mail: [email protected].


For more information on the Caribbean Tourism Organization, please visit www.OneCaribbean.org and follow CTO on Facebook, Twitter, lnstagrafn and Linkedln to be part of the conversation.

###



MEDIA CONT ACT: Johnson JofmRose - CTO Tel: (246) 427-5242 Email: [email protected]

Theresl) M. Oakes Tel: (516) 594-4.100

_ Email: [email protected]

Aii' of the materials are distrfbuted by the Caribbean Tourism Organi7.ation J)SA, ,I11c., on ·behalf of Caribbean Tou_rism · ·

. ."orpn_i~tio.n, a.n,~ · addi~iOna1,· infortruitiOti is O_li fde With the . J)epart~•l!t <if Justj~e; W~~bilii:to~, Di~tlict ofCoiu~bl~. ..

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - .. --

CARIBBEAN TOURISM ORGANIZATION DECLARES 2019 'THE YEAR OF FESTIVALS' IN THE CARIBBEAN

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (14 Dec. 2018)- On the heels of the past year's successful

Year of Rejuvenation, the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) has declared 2019 the Year

of Festivals in the Caribbean. Throughout 2019, the region will celebrate the unique rhythm and

tempo of each CTO destination.

"The Year of Festivals will focus on the fascinating events that have become an integral

part of the Caribbean tourism calendar. Festivals help to energize communities across the region,

while giving visitors inore reasons to enjoy our destinations," said Hugh Riley, Secretary

General of CTO.

"In l)ddition to providing an opportune time for vacationers to visit, these celebrations

also emphasize the unique cha(actetistics that define the many diverse backgrou_nd_s @d

traditions which comprise the Caribbean's cultural tapestry," added Riley.



The 2019 Caribbean Year of Festivals will be promoted through social media and

traditional media channels and will create opportunities for travellers and vacation planners to

share their experiences.

"While each destination is unique and inviting in its own right, the common denominator

for all Caribbean societies is a yearning to celebrate life - and each Caribbean country provides a

beat that can't be replicated elsewhere," said Riley.

"The Year of Festivals will highlight music, art, sailing, lights, food, rum, religious,

literary and dance festivals celebn1ted throughout the region. It's a theme which can easily be

embraced by all CTO member destinations," Riley noted.

Throughout 2019, the CTO will assist member countries with an assortment of

promotional concepts and opportunities which can be implemented around the theme of festivals

to appeal to consumers, travel professionals and creators of unique vacation experiences.

About the Caribbean Tourism Organization The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), with headquarters in Barbados, offices in New York and London and representation in Canada, is the Caribbean's tourism development agency comprising membership of the region's finest countries and territories including Dutch, English, French and Spanish-speaking, as well as a myriad of private sector allied members. The CTO's vision is to position the Caribbean as the most desirable, year round, warm weather destination, and its purpose is Leading Sustainable Tourism - One Sea, One Voice, One Caribbean.

Among the benefits to its members the organization provides specialized support and technical assistance in sustainable tourism development, marketing;, communications, advocacy, human resource development, event planning & execution and research & information technology.

The CTO's Headquarters is located at.Baobab Tower, Warrens, St. Michael, Barbados BB 22026; Tel: (246) 427-5242; Fax: (246) 429-3065; E-mail: [email protected].

The CTO's New York office is located at 80 Broad St.; Suite 3302, New York, NY 10004, USA: Tel: (212) 635-9530; E-mail: [email protected].

The CTO's London office is located at Suites 52A & 53, 5th Floor AMP House, Dingwall Road, Croydon CR0 2LX, England. Tel: 011 44 208 948 0057; Fax: 01144208 948 0067; E-mail: [email protected].


For more information on the Caribbean Tourism Organization, please visit www.OneCaribbean.org and follow CTO on Facebook, twitter, lnstagram and Linkedln to be part of the conversation.

###

Received byNSD/FARARegistration Unit 02/28/2019 12:10:31 PM

Received by NSD/F ARA Registration Unit. -Q2,i28/2iil,l 9 .12: 10:33 PM 1.1 I

CTO MEMBER COUNTRIES

Anguilla

Antigua and Barbuda

Bahamas

Barbados

Belize

British Virgin Islands

Cayman Islands

Cura~ao

Dominica

Grenada

Guyana

Haiti

Jamaica

Martinique

Montserrat

Puerto Rico

Saint Lucia

St. Eustatius

St. Kitts. and Nevis

St. Maarten

St. Martin

St. Vincent & the Grenadines

Trinidad and Tobago

Turks and Caicos Islands

To learn more about our member countries visit: www.OneCaribbean.org

Updated August 17, 2018


____________ - ... __ ~: :: .. ,,.;:;.~i,e: N·· i · . ,.,_;.:,,:,i,l.., .. "'.••·~----1 '( ~-_ .. · :1•-,~ nd f-lhe Bahamas

',. ,, ,_. .,, -·· .. Gulf or He•.l·co

~

t:1 •:'"-'~"-"!ffi,,,, t;_--_-J·· f/; 9'"

if «,\ <!"-If-• ~·· N;

t'll lEl_-,_

1:~ 1§* ·l.::d ~,;j 1~:-

l~-1 ~--~1 ~-I !)::<,_ b

• <Z), ~~ t?: 1<1> ,;;,, ·1-i4l

ill

An[Juilla;v./WW.ivisitAnguilla;c:om

. . & •- ~ '---~•~u J--"Oermuda ·F..-:>_..-;. Li' __

' ~-" ., Uf ..___..,._ --•< C - -- 1, ,,..,.. - --;;;.,_.

; . '\~ ~ .,,_

•=• (AUIQ~Ul'N,W-~

,_ -,Cayman lolands

~- ·., · '\.., __ ·-.~-·-" &Caiooslslands .. . ,__,-,,.,. . .u=.'=P_ - -r:::.-~. · ~~ "','.:,ou":. .,, '--" ~~aw.o

Jli(JilM ,§.,i; -,,.'t '.l<,,WfOl\,IM

- t'°wfUl'I'

~..;- ~ l'IIMll'IKMlf1

Caribbean Sea

Aoti(Jua 8J?arbuda www.visitAn'!iguaBi3rbuda:ccrn

:Bµ ham,15iwww.ea hamas.corn;

Cuba W'NW:go_Ctiba.ca

·Ctrracao,W'ff:H.Curacao:com

Domln!cawww:OiscovcrDOminica:corn

Gnmada·www.purcGfenada.com!

Martln!4uo,wWviMar_tini4tte1or9 I www:lamartinlque.ca

Mont.sorrnt www.YisitMontsorral.com

NOY ls· WV....w;Nevlsls land:corn

·Barbados www.VisitBarbados.org PUorto RJco:www.secPllcri:oRico.com

--,;. · , ., ,,;, :,_=l• _,_ •,.,l ·,;i1 ·

~- ·~-. ·.,..,

~efu1N-• --- ...__ www.CarlbboanTravet.con, WWW~

Language Spoken

·• Engltlh Ill frfl'Ch

,IIJ SpanKh ■ Out<h

Atlantic 0,ce-an

Anguilla St. Martin

----Sint Maartcn

St. Barts • 'II Barbuda ~~. ,o, Antigua

. _ . • ~ puadeloupe !'>I. Euslalmi. ..--

St. Kitts - -9-Cill.lJftt

Nevis \' Dominica Monlsemtt 'Martinique

Saint Lucia ,/B Barbados

St. Viint ll, '-' and e -_. lfOl,M

Grena inesp ,.ffll.,-clNT

ii~ Grenada ,,, Tobago

aao

H

♦ • w .

•

- ~t

:~ ::t

;{ ,qr, 1·'1" ro '• ....... '. :--t . .'I ,,Q-,

·t IN

,"t--.

-~

t:i ,:,o ":I - ........... J,';i: ·:.ti

• ···1 r, ~ _·:•o • ... ._ Y- +-' ,., g

f-',,, f:;·:i I';¥ f''-~

t' --_:_~_ •-~ _ff k~ r·-~

\;ll)'llna [ _-£ ill;,,,,_, (:' ,b

·' \_·;;· u ame, ·_. ... ' ~,Ll.:t ~"",- .1;'

St MJarten .Www;vacationSt.Mitarten:com

St: •Mi.!rtin .YNffl:StMartjnis·1and,org

I. !,•.~ !,._:_--

·Belize www:fravulBCliZe:org

British Vire in-lslands'www.BVltourism.com

G·lly.r nawww.Guyana•_tou rism;corn

l·laitl www:Haltitourisme;gouY:M Stllnl Lucla;www.Stlucianow,com'l:www.StLucianow:ca

st'. EuGtatlus•.WWW:Statlatourism,cQm

St.-.Vii:Cr.n t & tho:G_renadl nes WWW;discov.erSVG'.corn

Trinidild & Tobano·www:goTrinldadiJndfob,fgo.com,

Turks& Caicos Islands www.Tufksa"ndCaicostourism;com-' Unitod Statos Virgln,ISlands www.visitU.SVl.com j

--------· -------- ---~---f'([ d • ,, "'•"'' •:•:, ,__.____;;c ••·, ·,,,, ... ~ ... ,.,:··=-:-c•,:c,v,,• .;•·.>"'.,, ... ,,.:,;;'•1,•','.·.,.'. •, --..... --:::-;:::.:-·.-.~J:·-i: . . ; . ' .. !I " : , ' ii: I I '.. ; • ,r . ( . : ; r I,:• :,,c;i: '. :1;'2": ' • cAR 1BBEAN · , 1

• l:l · · · · · ·· · · .· • • .. ;,; · n ··· ' D ,· ,·I • ' I ·,. ,. I ·is .,\ .· '. .:''. .... , .. ,.,,,. ; :., .. :'.'· ... ·.·, ..... ,, '· ;fl ' ,, I I , , ,·-~ ·_. , .·., . i~ .. ,-:, '.•.' ,,;., ·. , ••.-:r c ,• -,,- •Ii\ f,• ; .. E · ACTIVITY . . · '··', i: .. ,:' .. •.·. -·.•,e·· '·, ··· ·,i. 1',., .. ; •• ··1,'.· i•''a - ·:J' ·,' .' .,. '·s ·''a · ·· · ·=. ··,. ·1·•·,1· · ·· · 1, .... :J i"' . ,ff'. I : : j' '.I . : ' A, . - ',· ',:... ,Is ·I ·I!! ':. ;'.'. • ' .. '. ,; ,; ·-~ i ....

.. ,.. CHART j i 'Ill,, '1,1 ' ,', .:1~ rte. , 'G '.> J-."' ,E! !g ;g I •I ~:I }11· '.~ ;~;· i. '1:Cl1

.,.. '.I Ji,, 1' , .. · ·, , ••·· • ,e ".J & ,ll ,~ ,. , . A llanpageSpokan .l'!lj,_ " J!1Jlj' 1 ' 1 ~1 ... J!,gi.~ 1.,,;.ll!ia 0 1 i: it :.,iii;·,·:~ ,' ;.~,~ IIEngllsh ■ French !g::z 1, JJI!! 1!!1J:.,,J, 1J,J,a.··FI .··f• J,<1'1.;f;l·•·~j-ji·-!\.,•.·;11 l' 'ie•.:ffi;::~ .. :.a..Rj·: .·} ·,J1;¥ Ill h

- -n= ,,,:b' ); , 1 f'ii 1 _"5 ":;a ·•·m Ji .-a , · , , ·-'·.Ii; jy j= . ' Rf Col c:: ii! · ,._. =it! .'Ii Cl · : '"Cl, l '.& dfu',j- Spanls .outdt "m =.·""' . ....... :. ..., .. '.=.•co ... , ·=-:=: .. :z:,.=:r:;,:= < .. z:·~: ....... "" • . .,,·.,.,· ~.' . .,..·· .. -.;-_,,_·t-:1~·1-,:-! .... · •• ... · )"!-,1

1

·_ •• :i~ i-::' .• 1[.,., l - I. · .,, ·,. 1- ··-•• • ·a_,! "'". , ....

~••:· ANGUILlA . . . ·• ••' ••'e-ie :ilo•i eli ,e'I e'•. • •.'• o • o, •'• \i, alro•, • ••· ·• • \i,I , ,e •••;,J,.,,1 ' s: '~i-:L~IM)A'. ':._·-~ _}·~>: !~; !;~---. i·· i:~-1 :±1 >~J._.d'.',.tt'. !:'! :1~~~--·· ·:•' --~·-, ••• ·,~, •• ' ·-- :_~_;.:U . 'j_,. >·•·:"Ji.:._.-,_.,.:''•'•'.·; i' ·-: .•.• > ·•.; _•\ ·1·.:1-:·•··

I s:.::- ,@i:·;::;[ii : I1.~1 f 1 ~I ~ I~ .~ ~- : ;:,i.0:tii ;~ :: :[i:={{iii: t~ tr, .. :c~Y~istANDSi'"• ,-:'_ ., _:'-;~< L;e·,.;; _':II-·: '•·1 .• :,._' •_: •. ·_•: :· ..• ' !''-. ,,.; i••- I• .. '·•' . ; ! .! :_ -:<_.,,· r• _: i•-~-- i ..• -_,: !:e._1 !."_ ·/ -,~-- • .- : .:_· :-o /1( .,, _'.·• ' . I ~- CUBA_ . ~ ~.-: ;··•--! t:_ ~'.! ! • )1! .. •·-! :. ~-·:' • : r::,:~ ··•.:: I.~ .. ':,:,_~.,,\( 1•. :•., • I ".!•~ ~ '.:~r !'.·•·-! l •:' ! ·•., _:,1.~, ·-:-·:I::~~~-,•--::•,~·-'.: :·'!•l,-•:·! ~ ~ ·.: :· ..•. :1: .. : ,l'~'-, ~-!··:•-~---- ~' li:~1 o':~ Cl)RAC"O .•:,. :'er!;:•··· '! :J;.:-••r .• -•..• , .• •-el.•.•:·•··:•·. ;.e .. ,,10,: ,. 8!:·•··:_.•·-1 8'1 ''il_•-·1 ,. J,1e_.1ie:-;

L': DOMINICA . .11•-ld•'i '-~.11·.•· ".i! •·- ·• ;fi .).'it_ .•. , •. ·-•.:··•:·· .!:·0:1: .. :::•:~- :.11t·•:-!i'e.!::•:·n··:::(1.'• ;,,_-? •t:·:r'.-e~:r-.:e,;'.f:J:::•.!1 -~·;.; ,GR,~A· ·•,' .. ·ii·ot-;\- ::,_ ... ,. 1 :1·•··:·• , •. • _11 :.io.:_. i ... , .• ·::e !-:<-._i!;e•i'I. ·;:o·li•·!)1.:j!~-~r f,e.L;•";e '.' ,_._:t•:••·;1 ... -.1···•:'· -i

Bi~ GUYA~ ;·•!).•:P· ~•)i'~:, ·•:: ,1,·•. '.~!, ·!=-' ;O' · ..•• /'1!·•'!;'· .. !:·•~!'! .• :.: -.', :·<_.:(:·: .. !~:'~·-·.1;_• !~:-'!J·l ,--- ---.- -- ,,- ,· •-€k .HAm'. . -l ·• ·:1!· . ! ' . !I' : :: ....... -: ·•: '" .. ' I :• _, ' I r• r . : J . ··•·I' •·.ii-.-~ L ;v. • _; ' l _ .1 r~:m •. f' J ,_. ·,r ·-" • ,. '' :I ~ • · , ', ·· • · · ,,. 1· ··, ·' · " · · , · '·' ' · ''ii ·' · ·I,,•' · '' 11 · .,I ·-•f··· '[' · · :~~h JAMAICA •-i(_!) ! ·. 1L!.:!: -• · • · :! : · ·• .e::i • "1 ~~-' :_!_ ~~;- : •·1 :_,o:: i_:~---~ L!_i ~~ _: ~•..:..i...!.:..2 ., ~J ·-~· i 1, .~.:-'. .:~

11t_' --~;: ~~J2f'. · ... 1_'.,~ _ ,:·•_,.,;1~(,.•_:: :_~•·~•·

•I.•

,(•' ·. f'..]"~.:I .•.

,. . . . . .... ,·ell'" ; - ~- ·- - ~ · · -c·- f~iJ, ·. I 'I ' · > - ' •• · 7 ··1 · Ci'. it, ;MARllNIQUE ·, - __ . l'e·]'e,);·e, ··~- • ·.•.' • •.".••· • _.e,··•.·•·i•e·'·• .. iOi!,e·1,-•--1:1•·!:-o' •·' • -.e:1:·e:··•·. -:_e: . .:e··-e,1:•,•···ct.,_,_,•_. • '•:.;•

I §;: .. ·. .·. . ,; i~ t;}:: ·} : i ;] :if I:1 i/:i:t:'f I j . ~ ~ :n>I'.' £1 ) :t;r;: :'~ ~r ST.EUBTATIUS ·,~:••:. i•.: ·••· -· · •·'•. ·, .,1e,'.'··il!••li·::l ,.,, · ··1 · • • '·••• •·, .:.,: .,... ·,t•·.,:•Ji'··, .• '· . ·,\·!:

;~- _:~:RTEN/ST.MARTIN ....• 1::::; .• ·,,,:::.::J ;;,:<::1fi:,;:::,::t:.: :>: ::~f.:.·•:i : ::1::;,::\: ... :; .• ,·:::·

1 ,.,t: .. : r:::: ~._: fST,.-,Vl_~Eff!'.·:&·-iTH~t~E~~I.:('~-~·;• -- ''it·_·,:·;(.~ (•·11• 11-•·!f•·i! '.-ie,],,:e,r:e.-e, • ,. ·, •-·_e,:;I :;-•• -~'";-·•:'; ·••·1,' ··•:i · ,.,;,.,1!•-: ·l·•·.·•.•'.i 1•;. fi ,::::~::~DS .. •· ,! : .. : '_;:·:: •i ': :: •{: ;: • i:~:l;..:J :;t,•:,: ::;'.'•,: '. •·:/: ,'~-:,: :::·::·:, '• •. -~, :::(::"!·•:• ;::!: •. ::~:: ! .. r~/: t . ;;:::: ::, :': ! i:, J.,_

~ :_ U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS / :•:-: -.l9!,~ t,•:.J:•·. :1•·:,. ~ 1.·~_,-Ji ·!J-l: .• },'. • l. : .•... •: ,._. ,,..· .. ~ •·~.; ·•:. ~--' l{ :-•_·- ~••:· i• : !-~·~··•·di,'.· : ... H~,.;_~ !: . ,. h,::'!'. ;'_·•·/ .:-~~,; -.,,·11~!':} ~:i . \~!Or __ :-: -- _- ·_ ._ __ ·- . ~ •,t :• ~\ ~-J:.t,_- ~: 1 J /., ,-i !: ~;J : e'.) , .:,; · ·•\ ),1~'. i-:• :· ,1.;_ --.~,. •.; ·-.-~·, • :e:. r·• _;._ .i'r . _.!·~ f'~t j '•(i !~•) /,- -_.::frili ; :~:::~W\,,-. , (~;J ··:_!;•jf •· ·:~:ii:

--~ •,

. ,J •··I ,;:E

·•P,-:rf)

·-... J'--rn 0 . _7:

_..:«.'tj---l

.·.l: :B -~ ···oo

.. ·.~ ·.t -'.'j

·J-~ ,,, ',, ·.•i:: f·,· i·;D ,,·.; !

{:i::g g

1;·:/~ ~:.:/t r,,~ l. ~

! .. '. :,, ' r·.:;.t :~ .. oo l''i-

.D ., ,::, ' ·~ ' '·Jl)

·~ The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), with headquarters In Barbados· and offices In New York and London, la 1he Caribbean'• tourism development agency I ;, ,j comprising membership ol 28 countrlas and temtortes lnclUdlng Dutch, English, French and Spanish, as well as a myriad of private sector members. The CTO's vision l:)s \. '-to position the Caribbean as the most desirable, year round, wann weather destination, and Its purpose is Leading Sustalnable Tourlam • One Bea, One Voice, One ., .. : .. :·. ·] Caribbean. n,,.,_,.......,..,o,,c..,.-.~.,.Jt<llo_wlllout......_ : , ·•<

"~-~~ '· ,,, · · ' · , · ,:, f Y'"ji:; ., ~..:0~~~==-...::.·L,L'c:lL2'. .. LLLz::. ·.· ··• ,:,;""'-~ > :;, : , , ···• :~z~_: :,~: .. Lli~~ ,'i ,\ ~ i ~~:%1;:<'tY>{fh.:GJc.:~~ :" :::::A •

received by - efile.fara.gov · 28-2-2019 · heritage which we will call "roots"...

Documents