News Americas, MIAMI, FL, Mon. Sept. 11, 2023: In an innovative initiative aimed at raising the standards of hospitality education across the Caribbean, Blue Diamond Resorts and the West Indies School of Hospitality (WISH) have officially forged a strategic partnership. Starting in September 2023, this initiative will extend the benefits of a world-class learning program to members of the hotel management company and hospitality professionals, providing them with a valuable opportunity to enhance their skill sets.

“As the hospitality industry experiences rapid growth, attracting a rising number of travelers to the Caribbean’s highly sought-after destinations the need for skilled teams capable of providing exceptional vacation experiences has become more crucial than ever,” said Gaurav Sindhi, VP of Operations West Indies for Blue Diamond Resorts. “Our commitment to ongoing innovation, as exemplified by recent enhancements to our Diamond Club and Star Class room categories, hinges on the foundation of exceptional service. This partnership extends to nurturing Caribbean growth and empowering our staff.”

“Blue Diamond Resorts’ commitment to enhancing access to education for its team members, as well as other hospitality workers throughout the region, speaks volumes about the brand’s dedication to its guests but also to the thousands of Caribbean individuals employed in the hospitality industry,” said Barry Collymore, Executive Chairman of Mount Cinnamon Resort and Founder of WISH. “We are focused on building peoples’ skills and setting a very high-quality Caribbean standard that honors the Caribbean; whether that be allowing our natural friendliness to be part of our service ethos, or celebrating the rich produce available across each island,” he added.

The program will provide international training and certification for both Caribbean citizens and global students aspiring to study in the Caribbean. This collaboration leverages WISH’s acclaimed educational curriculum through their platform and harnesses Blue Diamond Resorts’ all-inclusive hospitality expertise to enrich leadership and service training within the tourism sector. Courses span a wide breadth of topics, from Hospitality Management and Strategic Hospitality Marketing, to Analyzing Climate Change and the Global Food and Beverage System.

Established in 2021, the West Indies School of Hospitality has swiftly risen as a notable institution in hospitality education. Through its partnership with eCornell University and The Culinary Institute of America, it delivers a comprehensive curriculum with over 1,000 lessons via its On Demand platform. Building on its achievement of awarding over 1,000 scholarships to hospitality workers in 2022, WISH envisions a substantial increase in impact through this innovative partnership with Blue Diamond Resorts.

The collaboration between WISH and the renowned all-inclusive resort company sets the stage for an exceptional era of training and instruction in hospitality, propelling the Caribbean to a prominent position in global service and guest experiences.

For more information about the West Indies School of Hospitality and Blue Diamond Resorts, please visit www.bluediamondresorts.com or www.wishgrenada.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

About West Indies School of Hospitality

The West Indies School of Hospitality (WISH) was founded in 2021 by Barry Collymore and Danny Fakhre. The West Indies School of Hospitality (WISH) aims to create learning paths for Caribbean people in the Hospitality and Service Industries. WISH believes that this will lead to the creation of a more empowered, confident, and efficient workforce. This investment in the people of the Caribbean will no doubt lead to a more competitive Caribbean destination.

Through a unique agreement with eCornell, and the Culinary Institute of America, WISH provides thousands of scholarships every year in the field of Hospitality. WISH is funded through the patronage of its partners: Blue Diamond Resorts and Mount Cinnamon Beach Resort. WISH also has a partnership agreement aimed at increasing access, with the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association Educational Foundation.

News Americas, Roseau, Dominica, Fri. Sept. 08, 2023: The Commonwealth of Dominica is a small island located in the Caribbean between Martinique and Guadeloupe. Tourists marvel at the crystal blue ocean views and tropical humid climate, there is an abundance of discovery on the Nature Isle of the Caribbean. 

Explore 30 interesting facts about the magical island of Dominica! 

Cultural history

1. Dominica was named by Christopher Columbus

Prior to Christopher Columbus’ arrival on the island, the Caribbean settlers named it Watikbuli, meaning ‘Tall is her Body’. In 1493, Christopher arrived on the island and named it Domingo, which means Sunday, the day which he discovered the island. 

2. Dominica has an interesting motto

The motto is French, ‘Après le Bon Dieu, c’est la Terre’, translated to English as ‘After God, the Earth’, Dominica eloquently displays its natural beauty. 

3. Dominica is a republic in the Commonwealth

The Nature Isle gained its independence on 3 November 1978 and celebrates this day annually with vibrant national festivities. These include cultural markets, music festivals, and beauty pageants. 

4. The National Anthem is titled ‘Isle of Beauty, Isle of Splendour’

Dominica’s national anthem was written by Wilfred Oscar Morgan, with the music composed by Lemuel McPherson Christian OBE, after receiving statehood in 1967. 

5. Government system

As a parliamentary democratic republic nation, The Executive branch of government has a President and Prime Minister, whereby nominees are elected in consultation with the opposition leader. The two-party system, with the ruling Dominica Labour Party and the opposition party, the United Worker’s Party. 

All Dominican adult citizens may cast their ballots every five years during the government elections. 

6. Dominica’s President, His Excellency, the Honourable Charles Savarin

Elected as Dominica’s eighth president in October 2013, Honourable Charles Savarin is a member of the Dominica Labour Party. He received his nomination from Prime Minister, Honourable Roosevelt Skerrit, who has been the head of government since August 2004. Previously, His Excellency, Honourable Savarin was a teacher, trade unionist, parliamentarian, diplomat, and government minister. 

7. English Common Law system

Dominica’s constitution includes the right to life, personal liberty, and freedom of expression, which follows one-third of the world’s English Common Law. The hierarchy of Dominica’s court starts from the Magistrate Court, High Court, Court of Appeal, and lastly The Court of Appeal the Privy Council. 

8. Dominica’s small population of 72,412

The population of Dominica is currently sitting at 72,414, making it the 11th least-populated nation in the world.  

9. The Dominican flag is one of only two national flags with the colour purple

Out of all the nations in the world, Dominica’s national flag is one of only two national flags to incorporate the colour purple. The other is the Nicaraguan national flag. The Dominican national flag features a Sisserou Parrot that has purple feathers on the underside and the crown.   

Geographical landscape

10. The island is also known as the Nature Isle of the Caribbean

Dominica’s spectacular natural beauty is oftentimes affectionately known as “The Nature Isle of the Caribbean.” The vast amount of the island is covered in lush forests. Year-round visitors can experience wondrous waterfalls and mud ponds. Indigenous rainforest animals and insects such as parrots, iguanas and rare butterflies make up some of the phenomenal fauna.  

11. The national flowers for Dominica

The Sabinea carinalis, warmly known as the ‘Bwa Kwaib’ or the Carib Wood. Is the indigenous wild xerophytic plant. In bloom, it exhibits bright scarlet flowers from its branches. It is said to represent the longevity of the Dominican youth. 

12. The National Bird of Dominica is the Sisserou Parrot

The national bird of Dominica the Sisserou (Amazona Imperialis), “The Pride of Dominica” is found on the country’s emblems such as the Coat of Arms, the National Flag, the Public Seal, The Mace of the House of Assembly and Dominica’s Honours for Meritorious Service. The imperial parrot is endemic to Dominica’s dense mountainous rainforests. This shy and yet attractive indigenous bird has resided on the island for numerous thousands of years and can live over 70 years of age. The bird is an endangered species and is under preservation. 

13. Dominica is the only country in the world where sperm whales reside year-round! 

Sperm whales have called Dominica’s waters their home, and it is extremely likely to spot them swimming in pods, as whales and dolphins live close to shore throughout the year.   

14. The Island is home to the Giant Ditch Frog known as the “mountain chicken”

Dominicans refer to the frog as the “mountain chicken” due to its legs imitating drumsticks. The frog used to be a delicacy as a national dish and is now under conservation to preserve the species. 

15. Home to the Caribbean’s first long-distance hiking trail

The Waitukubuli National Trail (WNT) is the first long-distance hiking trail in the Caribbean. It is estimated to be 183 km long and is split into 14 sections. The trail was built between 2007 and 2012, the route crosses through Dominica and traverses some of the country’s most spectacular terrain. It will take a minimum of two weeks to complete the hiking trail. 

16. Dominica is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Morne Trois Pitons National Park is the exclusive Heritage Site in Dominica and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. This national park is situated in the southern half of the island and contains many of Dominica’s most spectacular attractions including the Titou Gorge, Boeri, Freshwater Lakes, the Boiling Lake, and the Middleham Falls. The Morne Trois Pitons National Park covers roughly 9 per cent of Dominica’s land area. 

17. Dominica has practised herbal medicine for centuries

The original inhabitants of the island, the Caribs, and later Africans, brought with them thorough knowledge of plants and herbs. This knowledge has been passed down through generations and many herbs like Moringa, Basil and Dandelion are still used today for medicinal purposes, usually referred to as “bush medicine.” 

Economic features of Dominica

18. Dominica’s main industries

The country’s main industries are agriculture, tourism and manufacturing. Over 20 per cent of the island’s land is arable and under cultivation, with bananas traditionally serving as Dominica’s largest export. Although Dominica has recently increased the production of other fruits, as well as vegetables and coffee beans.  

Dominica’s tourism sector continues to steadily grow, with the alluring nature attracting an estimated 200,000 holidaymakers annually. The island’s manufacturing industry primarily depends on raw materials from the agricultural sector, where in-demand exports include coconut soap, ceramics and shoes. 

19. Dominica’s official currency is the East Caribbean Dollar (XCD)

Dominica introduced the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (ECD) currency in 1965, which is used in another seven countries in the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).  

Foreign currencies including the euro and dollar are also accepted as tender. It is also pegged to the US dollar at a rate of US$1 to ECD (East Caribbean Dollar) $2.70. As Dominica is a member of the Commonwealth, all banknotes and coins feature an image of King Charles III.   

20. The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) Dominica 

The World Bank recorded the island’s GDP had an outstanding US$612,048,148 in financial year 2022. 

21. Investors can acquire Citizenship of Dominica by Investment

Investors in Dominica tend to seek citizenship through investment opportunities around the country. When visitors officially become Dominican citizens, they can develop businesses, work, relocate and extend their citizenship to their family members. 

Dominica’s CBI Programme received first in the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) initiative for six consecutive years by the CBI Index.  

22. English is Dominica’s official language

English is universally spoken in Dominica and UK English spelling is used. Dominican Creole (an Antillean Creole derived from French), and French Patois are spoken amongst the locals. This is because of the long history of French migration to the island as well as Dominica’s location between two French-speaking countries; Martinique and Guadeloupe.  

23. Christian religious practices

Christianity is the most common religion in Dominica, practised by over 90 per cent of the population. However, religious freedom is enshrined in the Constitution of Dominica so inhabitants can follow alternative faiths if they so choose, such as Rastafarianism. 

24. Cricket is the most popular sport in Dominica

Many Dominican cricketers play for the West Indies cricket team internationally. Shane Shillingford and Adam Sanford are two of the most notable cricketers from Dominica. 

25. The capital city of Dominica is Roseau

The largest city in Dominica it is located on the Southwest coast of the country and is surrounded by the Caribbean Sea, the Morne Bruce Hill and the Roseau River. Filled with lively markets, 18th-century French architecture and famous landmarks like the Roseau Cathedral and the Morne Bruce Cross.   

26. The Main Airport is Douglas-Charles Airport

Formerly known as Melville Hall Airport, Douglas–Charles Airport is Dominica’s largest of the country’s two airports. Douglas–Charles Airport operates both passenger and cargo planes to other destinations in the Eastern Caribbean region.   

27. Dominica is on a quest to be the world’s first climate-resilient nation

The Government of Dominica has called on investors around the world to assist in the development of sustainable and robust industries and infrastructure. This is an exclusive opportunity to implement the latest technologies and developmental approaches. Dominica aims to be at the forefront of tackling climate change challenges. 

28. Unique rivers for each day of the year 

Apart from breathtaking beaches and volcanoes, Dominica has over 365 rivers! While some are cool and clear, others are cloudy and fast. All the rivers are surrounded by exotic plants and flowers. The Indian River is the widest on the island, and many visitors choose this river to explore the rivers for the first time. 

29. There are nine active volcanoes in Dominica 

Dominica has the highest concentration of volcanoes in the world, with approximately nine active volcanoes. Eruptions are very rare, and the last volcanic eruption was in 1997 and the one before that was in 1880.  

The highest mountain and volcano are Morne Diablotins, and it is a magical sight. Adventurists can take a six-hour hike to reach the top where neighbouring islands, Martinique and Guadeloupe can be seen from the top. 

30. Many of Dominica’s beaches are covered in black sand

The volcanoes in Dominica influence the colour of beautiful black-sand beaches. Some of the most famous black sand beaches in Dominica include the Number One Beach, Mero Beach, and Rosalie Bay Beach. 

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Sept. 1, 2023: Here are the top Caribbean travel news and deals this week in 60 seconds.

The US State Department this week urged all U.S. citizens to leave Haiti, strengthening previous warnings over safety concerns in the country. Conditions in the Caribbean country, and especially its capital Port-au-Prince, have deteriorated dramatically in recent months with 2,400 killed so far this year due to gang violence.

Canada is warning nationals to Exercise a high degree of caution ​if travelling to Cuba or there, due to shortages of basic necessities including food, medicine and fuel.

American Airlines will Be Offering a Direct Flight From Miami to Tortola in 2024. On Saturdays from January 8, 2024, to April, American Airlines will operate three flights from Miami to Tortola.

The Bahamas is getting another major airlift boost with the announcement of Delta Air Lines’ new route from Miami International Airport to Lynden Pindling International Airport this fall. The direct morning flight, which begins on November 5, 2023, will operate daily with a Boeing 737-800, and is targeted to provide year-round service. With this route, Delta Air Lines will service Nassau from five US airports for the winter, including Atlanta, Boston, JFK, and LaGuardia.

Grenada is growing its underwater sculpture park – the first in the world. The country just addeds 31 new sculptures. Renowned artist Jason deCaires Taylor, who created the first sculptures for the underwater sculpture park in 2006, contributed twenty-five of the captivating sculptures in a collection titled “The Coral Carnival.”

Wondering which country is the Caribbean’s Leading Beach Destination? Turks & Caicos recently won the honors at the World Travel​Awards, held in St. Lucia on August 27th.

Meanwhile, the award for the‘Caribbean’s Leading Luxury Island Destination’. went to The Bahamas. while the award for the ‘Caribbean’s Leading Destination’ as well as ‘Caribbean’s Leading Cruise Destination’ went​to Jamaica.

This week, Azamara Cruise line is offering a Labor Day Sale offer for cruisers. Get 4 free nights and up to $600 in onboard credit. Eligible Azamara Cruises: Azamara’s Labor Day Sale is applicable to select sailings departing between Nov. 9, 2023 and March 22, 2024 to destinations like South America, Africa, the Caribbean, Australia and the South Pacific. Offer expires on Sep. 6, 2023.

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. August 18, 2023: Here are the top Caribbean travel news and deals this week in 60 seconds.

haos reigned this week at the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, St James, as issues with the newly extended runway impacted scores of flights for hours. More than 50 incoming international flights had to be either cancelled or diverted to the Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston and other airports in the US.

Meanwhile, Canada is again warning nationals to “exercise a high degree of caution” if travelling to or in Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago due to the high level of violent crimes there.

Actress Jodie Sweetin, known for her role as Stephanie Tanner in the ABC comedy series Full House and its Netflix sequel series Fuller House, was among the many tourists in Jamaica recently. She and her daughters Zoie Herpin and Beatrix Sweetin Coyle soaked up the last of summer with one final getaway before the school year starts at Beaches Resort in Negril, Jamaica.

InterCaribbean Airways, headquartered in the Turks and Caicos, has received a stern warning from Guyana about potential sanctions following prolonged flight delays and cancellations. the airline pledged to improve operations in Barbados and to deploy extra aircraft to mitigate delays.

Get “Timeless: A Virgin Islands Love Story,” This September 6th on Amazon Prime. The film, by writer,producer, and director, Edward La Borde, Jr. follows the tale of Ajuwa, a young Ghanaian warrior who loses her soul mate to the slave trade. Their souls reunite in the present as Malinda Benjamin, a Senator in the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Alphonse Walcott, a gifted writer returning home from New York.

Start planning your trip to next year’s annual Anguilla Culinary Experience, (ACE). The event will take place from Thursday, May 23rd through Sunday, May 26th, 2024. Tickets for ACE 2024 will go on sale this November at anguillaculinaryexperience.com.

Fond Doux Eco Resort, St. Lucia offers an impressive 40% discount for travel from now until December 21, 2023. Secure this deal by September 30, with a minimum two-night stay requirement. Log on to fonddouxresort.com.

And get up to $500 airline credit and $150 Spa Credit when you book a vacation at Sandals Resort during its Rhythm And Blues Sale. Check out all offers at sandals.com/specials/rhythm-and-blues-sale

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Tues. Aug. 8, 2023: When you think of the Caribbean, pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters and vibrant culture are likely to come to mind. However, over the years, a new player has emerged on the scene, enhancing the tourism experience and attracting travelers from around the world: casino resorts. 

The intersection of casino entertainment and tourism in the Caribbean has transformed the region into a haven for beach lovers and those seeking thrilling gaming experiences that you can enjoy online with betway casino. In this article, you’ll explore how casino resorts have become an integral part of the Caribbean’s tourism allure.

The Allure of Casino Resorts

Casino resorts in the Caribbean offer a unique blend of relaxation and excitement, drawing in travelers with diverse interests. These resorts provide a one-stop destination where visitors can enjoy luxurious accommodations, fine dining, entertainment shows, and of course, the thrill of casino gaming. Whether it’s blackjack, roulette, or slot machines, these casinos offer a range of options to cater to different preferences.

Boosting Local Economies

One of the most significant impacts of casino resorts on the Caribbean is the economic boost they bring to local communities. These resorts create job opportunities across various sectors, from hospitality to entertainment. Additionally, the influx of tourists stimulates the local economy by increasing demand for goods, services and transportation. Taxes and revenues generated from the casinos contribute to infrastructure development and social programs, thus benefiting the region.

Enhancing Tourism Appeal

The presence of casino resorts has expanded the appeal of the Caribbean beyond its natural beauty. Travelers now have an additional incentive to visit, especially those who enjoy both leisure and gaming activities. This diversification of offerings ensures that the Caribbean remains an attractive destination for many tourists, from honeymooners to solo adventurers.

Entertainment Beyond Gaming

Modern casino resorts offer far more than just gambling. From spa treatments and wellness programs to themed parties and live entertainment, these resorts curate an immersive experience for their guests. This creates a well-rounded getaway where visitors can unwind by the pool, indulge in culinary delights, and enjoy vibrant nightlife, all under one roof.

Challenges and Considerations

While casino resorts bring numerous benefits, they also present challenges, such as responsible gambling concerns and potential societal impacts. Local regulations and collaboration with responsible gambling organizations are essential to ensure that gaming remains a form of entertainment without detrimental consequences.

As these resorts continue to flourish, finding a harmonious balance between entertainment and responsible gambling practices remains crucial to sustain the positive impact on local communities and maintaining the allure of the Caribbean as a multifaceted travel destination.