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New Hilton Hotels Set To Open In The Caribbean This Year

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News Americas, New York, NY, February 19, 2025: Hilton is set to expand its presence in the Caribbean with two highly anticipated hotel openings in 2025, offering travelers luxury, lifestyle, and budget-friendly options across the region.

The Hampton Inn in St. Thomas is set to open soon.

In the first half of the year, Hilton will debut Zemi Miches All-Inclusive Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton in the Dominican Republic this June, followed by the opening of Hampton Inn by Hilton St. Thomas, marking Hilton’s entry into the U.S. Virgin Islands this quarter.

The Hampton by Hilton St. Thomas is set to make history as the first new hotel development in the U.S. Virgin Islands in over 30 years. Developed by Shaun Miller of Haven Development, the hotel marks both Hilton’s first focused-service property in the area and Hotel Equities’ debut in the Caribbean and Latin America under its Trust Hospitality division.

Designed to blend seamlessly with Charlotte Amalie’s Danish colonial architecture, the 126-room hotel will cater to both business and leisure travelers.

Additionally, Hilton has over 25 lifestyle hotels planned across 10 countries and territories, including Trinidad & Tobago, catering to travelers seeking authentic and culturally immersive experiences. Hilton is also growing its flagship and focused-service brands, with notable upcoming openings such as Hilton Georgetown and DoubleTree by Hilton in Guyana in 2027, marking the brand’s debut in the country.
As Hilton expands across the Caribbean and Latin America, travelers can look forward to new luxury escapes, all-inclusive resorts, and budget-friendly options, reinforcing the company’s commitment to meeting diverse traveler demands in the region.

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Massive New Sandals Resort Set For Barbados

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News Americas, New York, NY, February 24, 2025: A state-of-the-art Sandals Beaches Resort is set to transform Barbados’ tourism landscape, bringing an estimated 3,500 new jobs to the island. The massive hotel development in St. Peter – described as the largest private investment in Barbados’ history – is expected to begin construction later this year on the site of the former Heywood’s Hotel Resort and Almond Resort.

Speaking at the 48th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM, Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts, Adam Stewart, confirmed that 1,700 people will be employed during construction, set to begin later this year, with an additional 1,800 permanent jobs available once the resort is completed.

A Tourism Powerhouse for Barbados

One of two Sandals Resorts currently in Barbados. This one is located in St. Lawrence Gap.

This third Sandals resort in Barbados is expected to drive significant economic activity, creating opportunities in tourism, transportation, entertainment, and food and beverage industries.

The project is anticipated to take approximately two and a half years to complete. Sandals Barbados and Sandals Royal Barbados currently employ a combined 2,050 staff, and this new resort will further expand employment in the tourism sector.

Replacing an Iconic Resort with a New Vision

The new development will replace the former Almond Beach Village Resort, which closed in 2012, resulting in over 500 job losses due to declining quality, occupancy, and profitability. The revitalization of this location represents a major step forward for Barbados’ tourism industry.

Stewart expressed gratitude to Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley for her support in bringing the project to life, emphasizing its long-term benefits for the Barbadian economy and workforce. While no official opening date has been announced, the upcoming groundbreaking marks a new era for luxury family tourism in Barbados.  Currently, Sandals Barbados employs 1,450 permanent staff, while Sandals Royal Barbados has about 600 workers.

Caribbean Travel & Tours Redefines How You Book And Experience The Islands

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NEWS AMERICAS, NEW YORK, NY, Tues. Feb. 25, 2025: Breeze Travel Solutions, a leader in tech-driven travel has launched Caribbean Travel & Tours, the region’s first all-in-one booking platform. Designed to transform Caribbean travel, CTT seamlessly integrates flights and accommodations and curated local experiences into a single portal, eliminating the hassle of booking each component separately across multiple platforms with the support of expert recommendations and AI tools.

“As avid lovers of exploring untouched corners of the Caribbean, our team sought a platform that brought together the best experiences the Caribbean has to offer while eliminating the hurdles that have made island-hopping and inter-Caribbean travel so complicated,” says Casey Davy, CEO of Breeze Travel. “The one-stop shop we yearned for simply did not exist, so we created it. Born out of necessity, travelers will find utility and convenience in CTT as a mainstay to booking every aspect of their next trip to the Caribbean, without leaving the website.”

CTT invites travelers to dive deeper into the heart of the Caribbean with unique local experiences that go beyond the ordinary. From private chefs to knowledgeable historians and more, CTT users can connect with the region’s rich culture on a personal level, whether it’s uncovering the layers of a destination’s history or taking a steel pan lesson.

Travelers unsure of their next Caribbean destination or seeking new recommendations can utilize the platform’s AI-powered travel assistant. From suggesting ideal lengths of stay to seamlessly connecting flights between islands, the virtual assistant simplifies trip planning, delivering a highly curated and low-effort booking experience. Alternatively, users in need of more hands-on assistance can contact the platform’s travel concierge for first-person recommendations and planning solutions.

Understanding the power of social media, CTT empowers influencers to monetize their platforms to create personalized destination itineraries so travelers can book and experience the same trips as their favorite online personalities. Travel agents, too, can find utility in CTT to provide seamless, 360-degree destination itineraries for clients.

CTT leverages cutting-edge technology to provide real-time flight and lodging availability. From international and local airlines to luxury resorts or cozy bed-and-breakfasts, CTT users don’t miss a beat with access to live booking availability.

Learn more at https://www.caribbeantravelandtours.com/.

ROYAL CARIBBEAN EXPANDS DYNAMIC ARTIST DISCOVERY PROGRAM TO THE BAHAMAS

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NASSAU, The Bahamas, March 5, 2025 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Royal Caribbean has announced the expansion of its Artist Discovery Program from ship to shore, giving Bahamian artists—musicians, performers, visual artists, and sculptors—the opportunity to bring to life the region’s vibrant culture through curated collections and performances. This next edition of the program will offer guests visiting the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island more ways to encounter the beauty of The Bahamas while enjoying the ultimate beach day.

“The Artist Discovery Program will ensure we authentically reflect The Bahamas’ enduring creativity and essence at our Royal Beach Club,” said Philip Simon, President, Royal Caribbean Bahamas. “We are excited to give our guests a deeper and immersive taste of The Bahamas by embedding local art at the center of the ultimate vacation experience.”

Opportunities for artists include large-scale murals, dynamic dance performances, live music and expressive sculptures, each reflecting the vibrancy of The Bahamas. Artists will be prominently featured throughout the beach club, inviting guests to explore and celebrate Bahamian culture. Royal Beach Club Paradise Island will be designed to offer an immersive experience of Bahamian art through designated “art districts.” The districts will introduce guests to Bahamian traditions, highlighting natural wonders, festivities and serene beauty.

Both individual and teams of artists living in The Bahamas are invited to apply for consideration with mural, sculpture, musical or performance submissions. Submissions must be completed by March 28, 2025. Applicants must send five work samples, a CV and an artist statement to RBCPIArtistDiscoveryProgram@rccl.com to be considered.

The first round of selections will be announced in April, and the final selections will be revealed in May. Final selections will be installed at the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island by July 2025, with a grand unveiling in December 2025.

The first of the Royal Beach Club Collection continues to take shape in the coming months ahead of its opening in December 2025, and at the heart of the experience will be the island nation of The Bahamas. From the idyllic location to the Bahamian food, culture, and staff, and a unique public-private partnership with The Bahamas, the all-new beach club combines the beauty and spirit of The Bahamas with signature Royal Caribbean touches across the experience, service and design.

Additional information on the Artist Discovery Program can be found here.

About Royal Caribbean International  
Royal Caribbean International, part of Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL), has delivered memorable vacations for more than 50 years. The cruise line’s game-changing ships and private destinations revolutionize vacations with innovations and an all-encompassing combination of experiences, from thrills to dining and entertainment, for every type of family and vacationer. Voted “Best Cruise Line Overall” for 22 consecutive years in the Travel Weekly Readers Choice Awards, Royal Caribbean makes memories with adventurers across more than 300 destinations in 80 countries on all seven continents, including the line’s top-rated private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas.   

Media can stay up to date by following @RoyalCaribPR on X and visit www.RoyalCaribbeanPressCenter.com. For additional information or to book, vacationers can visit www.RoyalCaribbean.com, call (800) ROYAL-CARIBBEAN or contact their travel advisor.  

The world’s largest swim-up bar, The Floating Flamingo is where vacationers can keep the party vibes going all day on Royal Caribbean’s Royal Beach Club Paradise Island. Fueled by DJ-spun beats and dancing, the swim-up bar located in Party Cove serves up tropical cocktails, a VIP section and more.

Blue Diamond Resorts Cuts Check-In Times With New Online Pre Check-In

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News Americas,  ST. MICHAEL, Barbados, Dec. 12, 2024: Blue Diamond Resorts is revolutionizing the all-inclusive industry with its latest innovation: Online Pre Check-In: Fast Track Your Vacation. Now available at Royalton Luxury Resorts and Planet Hollywood Beach Resorts, this feature slashes check-in times by up to 50%, meaning guests can dive into relaxation faster than ever before. Designed to deliver a seamless, stress-free arrival, this tool ensures every guest’s journey begins with ease, setting the tone for an unforgettable getaway from the moment they step foot on the property.

“Today’s travelers are increasingly seeking simpler, more efficient processes, and this is especially true in the all-inclusive sector, where the demand for seamless experiences continues to rise. The launch of this new feature addresses this need by streamlining the check-in process and cutting wait times by half,” said Daniel Lozano, Senior VP of Operations for Blue Diamond Resorts. “As we continue to evolve with the changing expectations of our guests, this innovation is part of our commitment to providing elevated service and ensuring every moment of the vacation is enjoyable.”

With the Online Pre Check-In, guests can start the registration process in advance, ensuring a smooth and expedited check-in experience upon arrival. By visiting either www.royaltonresorts.com or www.planethollywoodhotels.com and following a few simple steps—entering their details, uploading required documents, and submitting the information—guests are all set before they even leave home. Upon arrival, those who have completed the process will have access to an exclusive fast-track lane, where their documents are swiftly validated, allowing them to check-in faster and jump straight into vacation mode.

Powered by secure, advanced hospitality technology, this new tool significantly improves efficiency, ensuring a smoother start to every stay. It not only enhances the guest experience but also allows travelers to begin enjoying the resort’s world-class amenities—from pristine beaches and pools to gourmet dining, luxurious spas, and unique entertainment offerings—without unnecessary delays.

Blue Diamond Resorts continues to elevate the all-inclusive experience, and the introduction of the Online Pre Check-In reflects their commitment to making every moment of the vacation count. For more information, visit royaltonresorts.com and planethollywoodhotels.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

These Top Luxury Resorts Are Opening In The Caribbean Next Year

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News Americas, New York, NY, December 12, 2024: The Caribbean is set to welcome an array of luxurious new resorts in 2025, offering travelers unparalleled experiences in some of the world’s most stunning destinations. From secluded private islands to vibrant beachfront properties, these resorts represent the best in luxury, relaxation, and adventure. Here’s a preview of some of the additional new top resorts set to debut across the Caribbean next year.

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Caye Chapel, Belize

This marks Four Seasons’ first private island in the Americas. Located on the sunset side of Caye Chapel, Belize, the Four Seasons Private Residence 19 will redefine luxury with panoramic ocean views and elegantly designed outdoor spaces. This 4,807-square-foot residence, priced at $6.5 million, will feature a private plunge pool, waterfront access, and amenities like an outdoor kitchen, fire pits, and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions.

It is also perched near the UNESCO-listed Bacalar Chico National Park and Marine Reserve, home to the Western Hemisphere’s largest barrier reef. The property offers unmatched access to Belize’s natural wonders while embodying the signature comfort of Four Seasons hospitality.

The island will also feature a 104-key resort, 18 overwater bungalows, and 24 exclusive residences, blending modern luxury with pristine surroundings. Designed by Mauricio Gomez de Tudo and Taller G, with interiors by Meyer Davis, Residence 19 integrates natural materials and sophisticated finishes, making it a haven for relaxation and entertaining.

Grand Hyatt Grand Cayman Resort & Spa

The Cayman Islands will host its first Hyatt-branded hotel on Seven Mile Beach. The Grand Hyatt Grand Cayman Resort & Spa will feature a spa, fitness center, pools, and Camp Hyatt for kids, catering to both families and luxury-seekers. It is set to become the pinnacle of Caribbean luxury. This first-of-its-kind contemporary development will offer 164 elegantly designed residences, all featuring ocean views and private terraces that blur the line between indoor and outdoor living.

The resort will allow guests to enter through a dramatic threshold bridge into its breathtaking lobby, complete with a Gallery Living Room and Gourmet Market. With 900 feet of beachfront, a main pool overlooking the ocean, and fully serviced cabanas, relaxation will come effortlessly. Children can enjoy their own pool near Camp Hyatt, ensuring fun for the whole family.

Exclusive ownership benefits will include $2,500 annual resort credit, Hyatt Globalist membership, discounts on dining, spa services, and accommodations, plus VIP priority reservations.

INVEST CARIBBEAN NOW

Salterra, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Turks & Caicos

South Caicos will welcome Salterra in February 2025, offering 100 ocean-view rooms and suites with private balconies. With six dining options, a full-service spa, and a kids’ club, it promises to be a sanctuary for relaxation. Nestled on the secluded Salterra Beach, Salterra Resort & Spa will be the newest gem in The Luxury Collection, offering an unparalleled experience in Turks and Caicos. Every room boasts breathtaking ocean views, overlooking the pristine beach, the barrier reef, and the striking Fish Rock. Guests can choose from elegant one- and two-bedroom rooms, spacious suites, or the exclusive penthouse suite.

The resort’s design pays homage to South Caicos’ historic sea salt industry, once the nation’s largest salt producer. The nearby salinas are a haven for vibrant birdlife, including flamingos, egrets, and herons, adding to the area’s natural charm.

Salterra will feature a diverse culinary scene with gourmet dining at Brine, laid-back elegance at Regatta and Cobo Bar & Grill, and casual fare at Flamingo Café. The Spa at Salterra will offer indulgent treatments in a setting inspired by the island’s heritage, complete with vitality pools, saunas, and more. It will be perfect for weddings, retreats, or a serene getaway.

Secrets Resorts Expands to St. Lucia and Aruba

Secrets St. Lucia Resort & Spa: This adults-only, all-inclusive resort opens in January 2025. Arrive via a scenic drive through St. Lucia’s lush landscapes, where every detail of your stay has been crafted for unparalleled comfort. From romantic rendezvous to unforgettable adventures, Secrets St. Lucia offers the perfect backdrop for pampering, relaxation, and lasting memories. Experience tropical luxury redefined at this idyllic escape. Set amidst 30 acres of lush tropical gardens, the resort features 355 elegant accommodations, each with private balconies and panoramic views of the sea, mountains, or volcanic beaches. Indulge in Unlimited-Luxury with gourmet dining at nine restaurants, six bars, 24-hour room service, and top-shelf drinks. Rejuvenate at the world-class spa, enjoy nearby golf courses, and explore a wide range of activities on land and water.

Secrets Baby Beach Aruba: Opening in March 2025, Secrets Baby Beach Aruba is an adults-only, all-inclusive oasis located on the pristine southern coast of San Nicolas. This luxurious retreat will offer 304 elegantly designed suites, many with breathtaking ocean views, and is perfect for couples seeking romance and relaxation. Enjoy the expansive infinity pool, unlimited gourmet dining, top-shelf spirits, and live entertainment in an idyllic setting of white sands and turquoise waters. Indulge in rejuvenating treatments at the Secrets Spa, designed to pamper and restore. Secrets Baby Beach Aruba promises an unforgettable escape, blending tranquility, luxury, and unparalleled beauty.

The St. Regis Cap Cana Resort, Dominican Republic

In the Dominican Republic, The St. Regis Cap Cana Resort is set to open by late Q1 2025. Guests can enjoy 200 rooms, including suites with swim-out options, a St. Regis Spa and event spaces, all in a prime beachfront location. The St. Regis Cap Cana Resort guests will be able to savor nine exceptional culinary experiences, from gourmet dining at Nina, led by a celebrity chef, to the barefoot charm of Marola Sea Side Bar. Indulge in bespoke treatments at The St. Regis Spa or unwind at The Amber Room cigar bar. Host events in stunning venues like the Poinciana Ballroom. Every moment will reflect the timeless elegance and impeccable service that define the St. Regis brand.

Zemi Miches All-Inclusive Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton

The coastal town of Miches in the Dominican Republic will debut this 500-room, family-friendly property in February 2025. With a waterpark, six restaurants, a spa, and retail shops, Zemi Miches offers something for everyone. Overlooking the crystal-clear waters of Playa Esmeralda, the all-inclusive oceanfront resort will offer the perfect escape. Located 90 minutes from Punta Cana International Airport, the resort boasts an exclusive beach near Redonda Mountain, 10+ restaurants and bars, four pools, a waterpark, and a full-service spa. Club Azure and bungalow guests enjoy elevated amenities, including rooftop pool access and exclusive dining options.

Stay in Caribbean-inspired rooms, suites, or bungalows with stunning views, some featuring private plunge pools. Savor diverse menus inspired by Caribbean, Thai, and Italian traditions, and sip tropical cocktails at swim-up bars. With 1,000 sq. m. of event space, custom catering, and group activities, the resort is perfect for memorable events.

American Airlines Halts Haiti Flights Amid Rising Gang Violence

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News Americas, New York, NY, December 11, 2024: American Airlines has announced it will not resume flights to Haiti in February, citing escalating gang violence and instability in the Caribbean nation. The decision underscores ongoing safety concerns that have also led other airlines, including Spirit and JetBlue, to suspend operations in the region.

People walk past a car set on fire by armed gangs in the Poste Marchand area, The Poste Marchand neighborhood is one of the hardest hit areas. Long prey to gang attacks. Following this tragic event, many families fled the area, joining thousands of displaced people seeking refuge in other parts of the capital.

Over the end of the year, more than 20,000 people were forced to flee gang violence in the metropolitan area of the capital, Port-au-Prince. Gang violence has plunged Port-au-Prince into chaos, with residents trapped in bloody clashes. This Tuesday, December 10, 2024 marks a few weeks since the uninterrupted violence, exacerbated since the announcement of the dismissal of Garry Conille as Prime Minister and the appointment of Alix Didier Fils-Aim to replace him. The security situation is deteriorating rapidly, with many neighborhoods under constant threat of gunfire from armed groups. Port-au-prince, Haiti, Tuesday December 10, 2024. (Photo by Guerinault Louis/Anadolu via Getty Images)

“American has made the difficult decision to suspend daily service between Miami (MIA) and Port-au-Prince, Haiti (PAP),” a spokesperson for the airline told FOX Business. “We are proud of our more than 50-year commitment to Haiti and will continue to monitor the situation, assessing safety, security, and customer demand, in evaluating a return of service.” Impacted customers will be contacted and offered full refunds.

Safety Concerns Spark Flight Suspensions

The airline’s decision comes in the wake of increased gang violence, which has affected both civilian safety and commercial operations. Last month, Spirit and JetBlue planes were struck by gunfire amid rising unrest, prompting those airlines to also temporarily cease flights to Haiti.

The U.S. government continues to warn against travel to the country. “The security situation in Haiti is unpredictable and dangerous,” the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince stated. “You should consider your personal security situation before traveling anywhere in Haiti.”

Crisis Deepens Amid Political and Social Unrest

Haiti has faced worsening violence this year, with the United Nations reporting at least 4,500 deaths and over 2,000 injuries in 2024 alone. Since November 11, an estimated 42,000 people have been displaced due to gang-related violence, according to UNICEF.

In one particularly harrowing incident, the National Human Rights Defense Network reported that gang members killed at least 110 elderly individuals in the Cite Soleil slum, alleging witchcraft as the motive. The violence involved machetes and knives, reflecting the brutal nature of the unrest.

Adding to the turmoil, Haiti’s political leadership remains in flux. Businessman Alix Didier Fils-Aimé recently replaced Prime Minister Garry Conille, who was ousted last month.

Hope for Stability

While American Airlines reiterates its long-standing connection to Haiti, it emphasizes the importance of prioritizing safety before resuming operations. The carrier will continue evaluating conditions to determine when flights may safely restart.

Experience The Magic of Christmas In The Bahamas This Holiday Season

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News Americas, New York, NY, December 4, 2024: The Islands of The Bahamas are ready to dazzle visitors and locals alike with a lineup of festive events and cultural celebrations that promise an unforgettable holiday season. From the enchanting Authentically Bahamian Christmas Festival to the world-renowned Junkanoo parades, The Bahamas is the perfect destination for those seeking unique holiday experiences infused with Caribbean flair.

Authentically Bahamian Christmas Festival

On December 17-18, Pompey Square in downtown Nassau will transform into a holiday wonderland during the Authentically Bahamian Christmas Festival. Visitors will step into “Claussville,” an immersive Christmas village featuring the vibrant sounds of Bahamian school choirs, indigenous dances, drama performances, and the much-anticipated Bahamian Ornament Competition.

Adding to the excitement is Junkanoo, the heart of Bahamian culture, which will bring a burst of color, music, and dance to the festival. Handmade crafts and native dishes will also be on sale, offering visitors the chance to take home one-of-a-kind souvenirs and savor traditional Bahamian cuisine.

Holiday Highlights Across The Bahamas

Abaco’s Light Up The Harbour Boat Parade – On December 12, Marsh Harbour will shine as decorated boats parade through the harbor, creating a festive spectacle for all ages.

Exuma’s Christmas Lighting Event – The islands of Exuma will host a series of festive events throughout December, with the Annual Christmas Lighting on December 13 being the highlight.

Ring in the New Year at Atlantis and Baha Mar

Celebrate the arrival of 2025 with style at the New Year’s Eve parties hosted by Atlantis Paradise Island Resort and Baha Mar Resort. Both venues will feature live music, gourmet cuisine, and breathtaking fireworks displays that light up the tropical night sky, ensuring a memorable farewell to 2024.

The Greatest Show on Earth: Junkanoo

Junkanoo, The Bahamas’ national cultural festival, takes center stage on December 26 (Boxing Day) and January 1 (New Year’s Day). With its origins rooted in the African diaspora, Junkanoo is a vibrant celebration of Bahamian culture, featuring elaborate costumes, rhythmic music, and energetic dance.

The largest Junkanoo parade unfolds on Bay Street in downtown Nassau, but smaller parades and festivities occur on Grand Bahama Island, Bimini, Eleuthera, Abaco, and other islands. Known as “The Greatest Show on Earth,” Junkanoo is a joyous event that brings people together and welcomes visitors to participate. The Boxing Day Parade begins at 9:00 p.m., and the New Year’s Day Parade kicks off at 2:00 a.m.

Increased Holiday Connectivity to The Bahamas

To make holiday travel even easier, American Airlines and Delta Airlines are expanding flight options:

American Airlines: Daily nonstop flights to Nassau from Chicago and Dallas-Fort Worth starting December 5, 2024.

Delta Airlines: Weekly nonstop service from Detroit to Nassau begins December 21, 2024, and runs through April 12, 2025.

Plan Your Bahamian Holiday Today

With an array of festive events and enhanced connectivity, there’s no better time to visit The Bahamas. For deals and discounted holiday packages, visit www.bahamas.com/deals-packages.

A Caribbean Black Friday Travel Deal

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News Americas, New York, NY, November 29, 2024: Get ready for a Caribbean travel deal this Black Friday.

The Courtleigh Hotel and Suites, a boutique-chic gem in the heart of New Kingston, Jamaica, is offering an exclusive Black Friday/Cyber Monday Sale for 2024. Guests can enjoy up to 25% off published rates for bookings made through December 3, 2024, with stays available anytime through December 31, 2025.

“This is the perfect opportunity to plan your getaway and experience Kingston’s finest all-suite hotel,” said Nicola Madden-Greig, Group Director of Marketing and Sales. “With this deal, travelers can enjoy a year’s worth of savings just in time for the holidays.”

The promotion requires a minimum two-night stay, and blackout dates apply from December 29, 2024, to January 1, 2025, and April 25–28, 2025. Rates are subject to a 10% government tax, a 10% service charge, and a $4.00 per-room, per-night occupancy tax.

The Courtleigh Hotel, known for its elegant ambiance, personalized service, and modern amenities, offers guests a prime location close to Kingston’s top attractions like Devon House, The Bob Marley Museum, and Emancipation Park.

For more details and reservations, visit Courtleigh Hotel Specials.

Canada Issues Travel Advisories For Several Caribbean Nations

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. Nov. 25, 2024: The Canadian government has issued travel advisories for several Caribbean nations, urging nationals to exercise caution due to violent crimes and safety concerns. Countries listed include The Bahamas, Jamaica, Belize, the Dominican Republic, Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago.

Canada warns nationals to avoid high-crime areas in Georgetown and tourist sites such as Stabroek Market and the Botanical Gardens.

The Bahamas

Travelers to The Bahamas are warned about violent crimes linked to gang activity, particularly in Nassau, Freeport, and Grand Bahama Island. Incidents such as armed robbery, sexual assault, and home invasions have occurred, even in tourist areas and cruise ship terminals. During the holiday season, crime rates tend to rise. Canadian authorities advise tourists to:

Stay in tourist areas

Avoid walking alone at night

Refrain from carrying large amounts of cash

Jamaica

Jamaica’s advisory highlights violent crime, including armed robbery and murder, in urban areas such as Kingston and Montego Bay. High-risk neighborhoods, known as “hot spots,” experience gang-related activity and gun violence. Tourists are also at risk of theft and robberies. Travelers are urged to avoid affected areas and remain vigilant, especially in Kingston and Montego Bay neighborhoods such as Tivoli Gardens, Trench Town, and Norwood Gardens.

Dominican Republic

Crime in the Dominican Republic, especially in major cities, includes theft, pickpocketing, and bag-snatching. Tourists are often targeted, particularly at resorts, beaches, and airports. Canadians are advised to:

Stay in secure accommodations

Avoid displaying valuables

Be cautious of hustlers and overly helpful strangers

Guyana

In Guyana, both petty and violent crime are prevalent. Foreigners are frequently targeted for pickpocketing, armed robberies, and carjackings. Visitors are urged to avoid high-crime areas in Georgetown and tourist sites such as Stabroek Market and the Botanical Gardens. Precautions include:

Avoiding large cash transactions

Staying in secure accommodations

Being vigilant when entering or leaving public places

Trinidad & Tobago

Non-essential travel is advised against certain areas in Trinidad & Tobago, including Beetham Estate Gardens and Laventille, due to gang-related violence. Travelers are urged to avoid these high-crime zones.

Belize

Southside Belize City is flagged for non-essential travel due to gang violence, murders, and shootings. Travelers should avoid this area entirely.

Additional Warnings

Canada advises against all travel to Haiti due to the threat posed by kidnappings, gang violence and the potential for civil unrest throughout the country. Travelers to Cuba are also urged to exercise caution as shortages of food, medicine, and fuel persist.

Canadian authorities recommend that all travelers remain vigilant, secure their belongings, and stay informed of local conditions while visiting these destinations.