Comedian Majah Hype Faces Backlash For Comments On Guyana’s Caribbean Identity

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Sept. 29, 2023: Popular Grenadian born, US-based comedian, Majah Hype, born Nigel Theron Joseph, is facing a backlash following remarks made on the Talkthatshhhh podcast, where he questioned Guyana’s status as a Caribbean country due to its geography and culture. The comments ignited a firestorm of debate and criticism.

During the podcast, Majah Hype stated: “It’s definitely curry chicken…the only person that you gonna hear say that is Guyanese people, and they not Caribbean,” in response to a question about cuisine. He continued: “Because it is in South America, we show dem love, we accepted them, but they not Caribbean…that is like the only English speaking country on the continent.”

In response to the online backlash, Majah Hype posted a video clip of himself engaging in a humorous debate, accompanied by impersonations of Guyanese people. The video garnered thousands of likes and comments. He captioned the post, expressing his surprise at the level of disrespect and threats he received and promising to share the messages he received.

However, social media users criticized him for not acknowledging his mistake and attempting to deflect blame. Some urged him to take responsibility for his comments, while others emphasized the need for unity among Caribbean people.

Majah Hype, known for his comedic impersonations of Caribbean cultures, expressed his astonishment at the intense reaction, particularly from the Guyanese community. He emphasized that he had represented Guyana positively for over a decade.

Despite the controversy, Guyana is recognized as a member of the Caribbean Community (Caricom) and has a rich history of contributions to Caribbean culture, including cricket.

Majah Hype’s comedic career has been built on his ability to mimic various Caribbean accents and mannerisms, earning him a substantial following.

Three US States Will Host ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 Cricket Matches

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Sept. 29, 2023: In a major announcement, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially disclosed that three US states are among the venues for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.

This tournament promises to be one of the most significant cricket events ever, with 20 teams battling for the coveted trophy. The ICC has chosen to play matches in South Florida, Texas and New York as well as a mix of Caribbean locations – marking a historic moment in the world of cricket.

In South Florida, the matches will be played at the Lauderhill Cricket Ground in Broward County in Florida while matches are also set for Grand Prairie in Dallas, Texas and Nassau County in New York.

Shai Hope, of West Indies takes a shot during the fifth and final T20I match between West Indies and India at the Central Broward Regional Park in Lauderhill, Florida, on August 13, 2023. (Photo by CHANDAN KHANNA / AFP) (Photo by CHANDAN KHANNA/AFP via Getty Images)

This announcement has generated immense excitement among cricket enthusiasts worldwide. For the first time, the United States will co-host an ICC event, marking a significant step in the global expansion of cricket. The inclusion of the USA as a host country underscores the growing popularity of cricket in North America.

The Caribbean matches will be played in:

Antigua & Barbuda

Barbados

Dominica

Guyana

St. Lucia

Trinidad & Tobago

St. Vincent & The Grenadines

ICC Chief Executive Geoff Allardice expressed his enthusiasm about this milestone, stating, “We’re delighted to announce the seven Caribbean venues that will host the biggest ICC Men’s T20 World Cup ever staged, with 20 teams competing for the trophy. They’re all popular venues with players and fans alike that will provide a wonderful backdrop to the event.”

He further added, “This will be the third ICC senior men’s event hosted by the West Indies, and the matches will again give cricket fans the unique experience of enjoying cricket in the Caribbean. I’d like to thank Cricket West Indies and the seven host governments for their continued commitment and support of our sport.

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 is set to take place from June 4 to June 30, and it promises to be a celebration of cricket’s global appeal. As teams from all corners of the world compete in thrilling matches, fans can look forward to witnessing some of the finest cricketing talents in action.

Preparations are already in full swing, and cricket aficionados are counting down the days until the tournament kicks off. Stay tuned for more updates as the cricketing world gears up for this epic showdown in the Caribbean and the USA.

All-Inclusive Fun: Blue Diamond Resorts Takes the Lead With Pickleball Courts

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News Americas, MIAMI, FL, Weds. Sept. 27, 2023: Blue Diamond Resorts is showcasing its dedication to guest well-being with the introduction of Pickleball as a highlight in its innovative fitness programs, Royalton FIT and PUMPED. Having successfully launched this popular sport at its all-inclusive properties in Cancun, the hotel management company is now poised to extend this trend-setting entertainment option to its resorts in the Caribbean by the end of this year, further solidifying its commitment to providing guests with engaging activities.

This addition to their fitness portfolio is an integral part of the Royalton FIT and PUMPED programs, available at Royalton Luxury Resorts and Planet Hollywood Beach Resorts, respectively. These programs are comprehensive entertainment packages with a strong fitness focus, offering a diverse range of workout options to ensure that travelers can stay active and engaged with their fitness goals even while on vacation.

“The introduction of Pickleball courts to our resorts, along with modern facilities and state-of-the-art equipment and instructor-led activities, reflects our dedication to staying at the forefront of the industry, ensuring that our guests can both relax and maintain their workout routines during their getaway,” said Jurgen Stutz, Senior Vice President of Sales, Marketing and Distribution for Blue Diamond Resorts. “By having a dedicated space for this sport, which has rapidly gained popularity in the United States and Canada, we not only adhere to the latest trends but also meet our guests’ demand and exceed their expectations,” he added.

The hotel management company initially introduced this trendy sport at its newest resort, Royalton Splash Riviera Cancun, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort, and after the huge success on guests’ satisfaction, it was expanded to all other selected properties. The response from guests has been overwhelmingly positive, with a significant number of them eager to participate in this activity during the 13 hours the courts are open for service. Guests can also anticipate spirited matches at all-inclusive resorts in the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Antigua, Saint Lucia, and Grenada.

As part of the all-inclusive experience, guests are provided with all the necessary equipment for Pickleball, including paddles and balls, and can participate in sessions and classes by appointment.

Blue Diamond Resorts’ indoor and outdoor fitness program stands as one of the most comprehensive in the hotel industry. With Royalton FIT & PUMPED programs, they continually innovate, transcending traditional offerings to provide an extensive array of options tailored to diverse preferences and goals. The introduction of new activities like Pickleball further underscores their commitment to creating unforgettable vacation experiences.

For more information about Blue Diamond Resorts and its innovative offerings, please visit www.bluediamondresorts.com.

About Blue Diamond Resorts  

Blue Diamond Resorts encompasses over 60 properties, exceeding 18,000 rooms in eight countries located in the most popular holiday destinations in the Caribbean. Its nine leading hotel brands include the Award-winning, All-In Luxury® Royalton Luxury Resorts, where Everyone is Family. Whether guests come as friends, parents, kids, couples, weddings, corporate or incentive retreats, or solo travelers everyone is family in these properties that feature personalized services and signature amenities including All-In Connectivity, DreamBed, and the Sports Event Guarantee.  To refocus on valued relationships and friendships, Hideaway at Royalton offers an adults-only experience with exclusive dining and preferred accommodations to enhance Togetherness among their guests. Party Your Way at Royalton CHIC Resorts, an adults-only vibrant and effervescent all-inclusive brand to revel in the unexpected. Mystique by Royalton is Miles from Ordinary, offering their visitors the chance to connect with their surroundings in a boutique-style resort collection full of endless beauty and hip vibes. In Jamaica, Grand Lido Negril offers guests over the age of 21, a unique and all-inclusive Au Naturel vacation along with a secluded shore for the utmost privacy. Memories Resorts & Spa offers a vacation designed whether you´re planning a family vacation, reuniting with friends, or just have a relaxing moment with your significant other, while Starfish Resorts provides amazing value, breathtaking surroundings, and rich culture and heritage. Planet Hollywood Hotels & Resorts invites guests to Vacation Like A Star with an engaging and interactive experience, plus famous pop culture items from iconic movies, music, and sports while you will Dodge the Paparazzi at Planet Hollywood Adult Scene  where your adults-only vacation will be the center of fascination and attention with glam and exclusivity.  

To learn more about Blue Diamond Resorts, please visit www.bluediamondresorts.com   

Eric Schmidt Backs Out Of Mega Yacht Purchase, Leaving Antigua Government With $28,000 Weekly Bill

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Tues. Sept. 26, 2023: In a surprising turn of events, Eric Schmidt, the former Google CEO, has backed out of his intended purchase of the Alfa Nero, a $120 million mega-yacht seized by the Antigua and Barbuda government. This unexpected development has left the small Caribbean nation grappling with a substantial $28,000 weekly maintenance bill for the idle vessel, as reported by The Wall Street Journal.

The Alfa Nero, which had been anchored in Antigua’s Falmouth Harbor since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in August 2022, was linked by the US Treasury Department to Andrey Guryev, a Russian oligarch known to have close ties to Vladimir Putin. Despite winning the yacht auction in June for $67.6 million, Schmidt’s change of heart came after a legal action, filed by a company connected to Guryev’s daughter, thwarted the sale.

The superyacht Alfa Nero docked in Falmouth Harbour in Saint Paul Parish, Antigua, on Wednesday, April 20, 2023. It’s been more than a year since the Russian superyacht Alfa Nero all 267 feet and 2,500 gross tons of it was abandoned in Falmouth Harbour, Antigua. Photographer: Bing Guan/Bloomberg via Getty Images

As a result, the megayacht, renowned for its opulence and amenities, including an infinity pool that doubles as a dancefloor, has remained stationed in Falmouth Harbor for over 19 months. The financial burden of maintaining the vessel has now fallen upon the shoulders of Antigua and Barbuda’s taxpayers, who are footing the $28,000-a-week bill. These expenses cover various costs, such as the salary of an Italian captain and a daily diesel bill of $2,000 to keep the vessel’s air conditioning operational. The constant cooling is necessary to prevent mold from damaging the yacht’s hardwood interior and priceless artwork, including a Joan Miró painting.

The unexpected outcome has posed a significant challenge to the Caribbean nation, which is home to just 93,000 residents. While the Antigua and Barbuda government initially sought to auction the Alfa Nero due to concerns about its inadequate maintenance, Eric Schmidt’s withdrawal from the deal has created an ongoing financial burden that the nation now faces.

We Asked AI To Write A Song Bob Marley Would Write Today. The Result Will Shock You

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Tues. Sept. 26, 2023: Robert Nesta ‘Bob’ Marley was and remains, the greatest reggae singer of all time even though he has been dead since 1981. With songs like “One Love,” “Redemption Song” and “Buffalo Soldier,” his legacy will live on forever.

What if Bob could write another song? While it’s not possible in real life, it is possible, in a way, thanks to ChatGPT. News Americas reached out to the artificial intelligence system to see what it thought a Bob Marley song would resemble today.

Here are the lyrics to the song ChatGPT wrote:

(Verse 1)
In this modern world, full of chaos and strife,
Searching for a path to a better life.
Where the people stand divided, in their daily grind,
But I can hear the call of unity, it’s deep inside.

(Chorus)
One love, one heart, let’s come together today,
In this world of confusion, we’ll find a better way.
One love, one heart, let’s rise above the hate,
With compassion and kindness, it’s never too late.

(Verse 2)
In the concrete jungles, where the sirens wail,
Lost souls looking for hope, as they set sail.
Through the storms of life, we must find our guide,
In the spirit of togetherness, we won’t be denied.

(Chorus)
One love, one heart, let’s come together today,
In this world of confusion, we’ll find a better way.
One love, one heart, let’s rise above the hate,
With compassion and kindness, it’s never too late.

(Bridge)
Though the world may try to tear us apart,
We’ll stand as one, with love in our hearts.
In the face of darkness, we’ll be the light,
Spreading peace and harmony, day and night.

(Verse 3)
From the mountains to the oceans, and the cities wide,
Let’s bridge the gaps that separate, let love be our guide.
No matter where we’re from, or the color of our skin,
We’re all part of this world, let the healing begin.

(Chorus)
One love, one heart, let’s come together today,
In this world of confusion, we’ll find a better way.
One love, one heart, let’s rise above the hate,
With compassion and kindness, it’s never too late.

(Outro)
So let’s sing this song of unity, loud and clear,
In the spirit of togetherness, there’s nothing to fear.
With one love, one heart, we’ll find our way,
In this world of unity, we’ll seize the day.

Guyana Amazon Warriors Win CPL 2023 Finals

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News Americas, GEORGETOWN, Guyana, Sun. Sept. 24, 2023: The Guyana Amazon Warriors came back with a vengeance Sunday night to silence the Trinibago Knight Riders on their fifth try in the competition’s history and win the finals of the 2023 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League, CPL, competition by 9 wickets on home turf at the Providence Stadium on the East Bank of Demerara in Guyana.

Fans of Guyana Amazon Warriors cheer during the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League Final between Trinbago Knight Riders and Guyana Amazon Warriors at Providence Stadium on September 24, 2023 in Georgetown, Guyana. (Photo by Ashley Allen – CPL T20/CPL T20 via Getty Images)

The Warriors won the toss and chose to bowl, unleashing a fire storm that left the Knight Riders floundering at 94 all out from their 18.1 overs.

Imran Tahir of Guyana Amazon Warriors appeals during the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League Final between Trinbago Knight Riders and Guyana Amazon Warriors at Providence Stadium on September 24, 2023 in Georgetown, Guyana. (Photo by Ashley Allen – CPL T20/CPL T20 via Getty Images)

The Warriors then took to the crease with the Pakistani-born Saim Ayub and Kemmo Paul opening the batting. However, Paul was bowled for 11 with the score at 15 for 1. Ayub was then joined by Guyanese-born Shai Hope at the crease and the two settled into a partnership that took the Warriors from 15 for 1 to 99 for 1 in 14 overs.

A fan dressed as a chicken shows his support during the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League Final between Trinbago Knight Riders and Guyana Amazon Warriors at Providence Stadium on September 24, 2023 in Georgetown, Guyana. (Photo by Ashley Allen – CPL T20/CPL T20 via Getty Images)

Ayud ended with a half-century knock of 52 not-out while Hope ended on 32 not out.

Saim Ayub of Guyana Amazon Warriors hits four runs during the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League Final between Trinbago Knight Riders and Guyana Amazon Warriors at Providence Stadium on September 24, 2023 in Georgetown, Guyana. (Photo by Ashley Allen – CPL T20/CPL T20 via Getty Images)

The pick of the bowlers for Guyana was the South Africa born Dwaine Pretorius, who bagged 4 wickets for 26 runs while Gudakesh Motie grabbed 2 for 7 and Imran Tahir, 2 for 8. The top scorer for the Knight Riders was Keacy Carty who scored 38.

Kieron Pollard (R) and Chadwick Walton (L) of Trinbago Knight Riders react to a DSR decision shown on the big screen during the Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League Final between Trinbago Knight Riders and Guyana Amazon Warriors at Providence Stadium on September 24, 2023 in Georgetown, Guyana. (Photo by Ashley Allen – CPL T20/CPL T20 via Getty Images)

How Immigrant Business Owners Can Unlock Business Potential With SBA Loans

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. Sept. 25, 2023: A buzz of excitement is spreading through the US immigrant small business community. It’s a story of possibilities, financial empowerment, and growth that begins with five simple words: “NO Fee* SBA 7(a) Business Loan.”

For a limited time, entrepreneurs and business owners are seizing the opportunity offered by Invest Caribbean to get started with an SBA 7(a) Business Loan up to $500,000 with no fees attached or a reduced fee loan up to $1,000,000. This offer, provided by a trusted financial institution, is a game-changer for those looking to take their businesses to new heights.

Consolidate Debt
Imagine a business owner who, for years, has been juggling multiple high-interest loans and credit card debts just to keep the lights on. With this limited-time SBA loan offer, they can consolidate their debts into one manageable, low-interest loan, reducing financial stress and freeing up cash flow to invest in their business.

Access Working Capital
A growing business often needs working capital to seize opportunities, hire talent, and expand operations. With an SBA loan, entrepreneurs can access the necessary funds to fuel their business growth, all while benefiting from the ease of repayment thanks to favorable terms.

Start a Business
The dream of starting a business is within reach for aspiring entrepreneurs. Whether it’s a tech startup, a neighborhood cafe, or a boutique clothing store, the SBA loan can provide the capital needed to turn dreams into reality.

Purchase a Business or Equipment
Buying an existing business or upgrading essential equipment can be a costly endeavor. The limited-time SBA loan offer makes it feasible for entrepreneurs to acquire businesses or machinery, helping them stay competitive in their industries.

Construct, Purchase, Refinance, or Renovate Business Real Estate
For those looking to expand their footprint, renovate their existing space, or acquire new real estate, the SBA loan offers a lifeline. With affordable terms and favorable interest rates, business owners can invest in their properties, positioning themselves for long-term success.

Access Financing
Sometimes, the biggest challenge is obtaining the necessary financing to propel a business forward. The SBA loan program, now easier to navigate thanks to major guideline changes, simplifies the application process. Business owners can access the funds they need more quickly and with less bureaucracy, ensuring they can seize opportunities as they arise.

Pro Tip: The SBA process is now easier than ever thanks to major guideline changes.

Business owners and entrepreneurs are taking advantage of this limited-time opportunity. They’re visiting their trusted financial institutions, consulting with experienced loan officers, and exploring the possibilities that come with a NO Fee* SBA 7(a) Business Loan. As they do, they’re not only improving their own prospects but also contributing to the vibrant tapestry of the local business community.

This limited-time SBA loan offer is writing a new chapter of success stories. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this narrative. Click to get started and unlock the potential of your business today.

Immigrant Companies Can Embrace These Five Essential Practices For Effective Press Releases

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. Sept. 25, 2023: To ensure your press release makes a significant impact as an immigrant owned company, whether from the Caribbean or Latin America, consider these five crucial factors before sharing your news releases. Releasing countless press releases without careful consideration can result in being perceived as a brand that generates noise rather than valuable information. This can hinder your efforts to build meaningful relationships with journalists, as they can quickly discern if your motives are solely focused on SEO.

Here are the vital questions to ponder before crafting your press release:

Is Your News Truly Newsworthy?
It’s important to discern whether your announcement genuinely qualifies as news. Announcing a new website or a logo change may not meet the criteria. However, reaching a significant industry or company milestone, obtaining a patent, or introducing a high-profile executive team are all examples of highly newsworthy events that will capture attention.

Who Is Your Audience?
Remember, press releases are primarily meant for the media to communicate information to the public. Focus on conveying facts to the media so they can incorporate your news into broader narratives. While your primary audience is not the end consumer, include all pertinent details to prompt the reader to take a specific call to action, which we’ll discuss later.

Where Do You Want Your News to Appear?
While you’ll likely distribute your press release via a newswire, it’s essential to identify specific media targets. Determine which journalists are likely to be interested in your news and which media outlets you aspire to be featured in. Preparing these strategies in advance ensures a well-planned release that doesn’t go unnoticed.

What Key Messages Should the Reader Take Away?
The call to action is often overlooked in many press releases. To enhance readability and credibility, provide clear instructions for the reader and journalist. What action do you want them to take? Whether your release is educational, informative, or anticipates a product launch, ensure it guides the reader toward the next step.

Now that you’ve addressed these questions, you’re prepared to proceed with your press release. Enhance it by incorporating images or videos and having a comprehensive press kit ready for follow-up and media pitching.

Remember, a press release marks the beginning of a conversation. Your responsibility is to nurture and cultivate these relationships, ultimately securing the media coverage you desire. In conclusion, embrace the classic practice of press releases as a gateway to disseminate news and lay the foundation for a broader media relations program through companies like CARIBPR Wire and Cision PRNewswire.

UWI Honorary Degrees For Distinguished Caribbean Entertainers

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Sept. 22, 2023: The University of the West Indies (The UWI) is set to confer honorary degrees upon fourteen remarkable individuals, including several Caribbean entertainers, during the Class of 2023 graduation ceremonies, commencing on October 7.

This cherished annual tradition, coinciding with the regional university’s 75th jubilee celebrations, serves as a tribute to the exceptional contributions these honorees have made to their communities and society at large.

These distinguished individuals will join the ranks of hundreds of graduating students across The UWI’s Five Islands, Cave Hill, St. Augustine, Mona, and Global (formerly Open Campus) locations, marking the culmination of their educational journeys.

Below is the schedule for the 2023 graduation ceremonies and the esteemed list of honorary degree recipients:

Five Islands Campus – October 7

Sir Leroy ‘King Short Shirt’ Emanuel

Sir MacLean, born 28 February 1942 and better known as King Short Shirt, is an Antiguan singer, best known as one of Antigua’s longest standing and most successful calypsonians, but later producing gospel music.

Cave Hill Campus – October 21

Alison Hinds

Recording Artist Alison Hinds performs on stage during the Caribbean Village Festival at Miramar Regional Park Amphitheater on June 23, 2019 in Miramar, Florida. (Photo by Johnny Louis/Getty Images)

Alison Hinds, born June 1st 1970, is a British-born Bajan soca artist based in Barbados. She is one of the most popular soca singers in the world.

St. Augustine Campus – October 26-28
Heather Headley

Heather Headley performs onstage at the 2023 Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Gala at the New York Marriott Marquis on June 15, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by L. Busacca/Getty Images for Songwriters Hall of Fame)

Heather Headley, born October 5, 1974, is a Trinidadian-born American singer, songwriter, record producer and actress. She won the 2000 Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical for the titular role of Aida. She also won the 2010 Grammy Award for Best Contemporary R&B Gospel Album for her album Audience of One. In 2018, she recurred as Gwen Garrett on the NBC medical drama television series Chicago Med.

Mona Campus – November 3-4
Hugh Beresford Hammond, OJ

Beres Hammond OJ, born Hugh Beresford Hammond on 28 August 1955, in Annotto Bay, Saint Mary, Jamaica, is a Jamaican reggae singer known in particular for his lovers rock music. While his career began in the 1970s, he reached his greatest success in the 1990s.

Stay tuned for these inspiring celebrations of achievement and recognition at The UWI’s graduation ceremonies.

Caribbean Travel News & Deals

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Sept. 22, 2023: Here are the top Caribbean travel news and deals this week in 60 seconds.

Police on the island of New Providence in the Bahamas, are investigating the death of twenty-nine year old American male resident of Carbon Dale, Illinois. Preliminary reports revealed, that shortly after 10:30 a.m on September 20th while on board a cruise ship, the male passenger was found unresponsive near the pool deck. He was later pronounced dead by the ship’s doctor. Investigations into his death continues.

Canadian authorities are warning nationals to exercise a high degree of caution if travelling to or in Cuba due to shortages of basic necessities including food, medicine and fuel.

Canada is also warning nationals to exercise a high degree of caution if travelling to or in Trinidad and Tobago due to violent crime there.

Sandals Resort will debut its 18th resort and the first ever on the Caribbean island of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is set to launch in Spring 2024.

Blue Diamond Resorts is now offering complimentary roundtrip airport-to-hotel transfers integrated seamlessly into the reservation process to any of its resorts in the Caribbean for guests. The option is open to those who choose to book directly through the hotel management company’s dedicated brand websites as of September 18th.

Get ready to book a flight to Saint Martin for the third edition of ‘Festival de la Gastronomie of St. Martin.’ The event is set to take place from November 11 to 22, 2023. Find out more at festival-st-martin.org

South West Airlines offers a great THanksgiving Weekend Getaway from Fort Lauderdale To The Dominican Republic.
Fly on Nov. 23rd to PuntA Cana and stay at Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana – All Inclusive through Nov. 27th for USD 1,255 per person.

Book here

And Fly American Airlines from Miami to Montego Bay, Jamaica on Oct. 27th and stay at stay at the Riu Palace Tropical Bay – All Inclusive in Negril through Nov.​1st for Less than USD 1,200 per person. Book now

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